energy saving window film chicago

The summer heat in Chicago can be oppressive. As temperatures soar into the 90s and humidity makes the air thick as soup, energy bills skyrocket from blasting the AC. We’re all seeking relief from the heat and ways to reduce energy costs. An often overlooked solution is installing energy-efficient window film for your Chicago home or building. Let’s explore why window film is an ideal way for Chicago property owners to save energy and money while staying comfortable.

Chicago’s Energy Use Peaks During Summer

Chicagoans use a lot of energy. The average monthly electricity bill is around $129. Costs are highest in summer when energy use spikes from blasting the AC during hot and humid days. During a heatwave, people crank the AC to stay cool. This overworks HVAC systems, leading to breakdowns. It also hikes energy bills to eye-watering levels.

There are over 1.08 million households in the Chicago metro area. The sheer number of people running air conditioners overloads the local grid. Anything we can do as residents to reduce AC demands helps takes the pressure off the grid while saving money.

How Window Films Save Energy

Window film is an innovative solution to high energy costs. Specialized films are applied to glass surfaces to reduce heat transfer into a building. Less heat passing through the windows means lower AC demands. There are a few types of high-performance films that reject solar heat:

  • Low emissivity or low-E films use a microscopically thin metallic coating to reflect infrared light. This stops heat from entering in summer yet allows light to pass through.
  • Spectrally selective films take filtering a step further. They block more of the solar spectrum, including UV rays and infrared heat. However, they permit visible light to pass through, so you can still see out during the day.
  • Ceramic nanotechnology innovates again with nano-ceramic films. Microscopic ceramic particles integrated into the film provide enhanced infrared reflection.

More Benefits of Window Films

Besides energy savings, high-performance window films offer other advantages:

– UV ray protection to reduce sun damage to furnishings
– Glare reduction for improved visibility
– Safety and security films to hold glass fragments if broken
– Improved privacy for a more secluded indoor space

Enhancing comfort is another bonus. Lower solar heat gain keeps interiors cooler. Less glare makes indoor lighting more uniform. Safety films become a barrier to deter forced entry. And adding privacy helps environments feel more peaceful. Window films check all the boxes for comfort, protection, and efficiency.

Comparing Film Options for Energy Savings

Window films come in different types to suit your needs. To maximize energy savings in Chicago’s climate, we recommend spectrally selective or nano-ceramic films. Both technologies excel at blocking infrared heat yet let in light. This lighting selectivity gives superior performance for cooling efficiency.

Low-E films are also effective at reducing heat transfer on east, west, and south-facing windows. These orientations get more direct sun exposure hence higher solar gain. Low-E is ideal if you want a light tint that reflects heat but maintains visibility. It works well for north-facing windows that get less direct sun.

Darker tints like charcoal or bronze are good choices for privacy along with decent heat reduction. Just keep in mind darker films will also dim incoming light. It’s beneficial to go with a lighter tint on at least some of your windows to allow daytime light into your home. Mixing and matching window films gives you a custom design to suit each room’s needs.

Professional Installation Recommended

Homeowners sometimes wonder whether DIY application kits are a smart option. For best results, energy savings, and longevity, professional installation outperforms DIY films. The reason comes down to precision. Correctly installing window film is an art that takes training, experience, and the right tools.

When professionally installed, the film has incredible optical clarity with no bubbles, creases, or gaps. The precision application ensures excellent visual quality and thermal performance.

On the other hand, DIY kits typically last less than 5 years before needing replacement. Investing in professional installation gives a longer-lasting solution that maintains optical clarity and performance over time.

Here is what you can expect from professional window film installation:

– Thorough site evaluation and recommendations
– Advanced computerized cut patterns for precision fit
– Proper surface preparation for long-term adhesion
– Techniques to eliminate air pockets and wrinkles
– Warranty on materials and labor

Be sure to choose a reputable installer that is licensed, insured, and has plenty of experience. Ask for references from past clients. Check for online reviews. A quality installer makes all the difference for an effective long-lasting window film project.

Rapid Return on Your Investment

Energy-efficient window films provide substantial savings that offset the initial investment in 2-3 years or less. The exact payback depends on factors like your sun exposure, home size, and HVAC usage.

For the average single-family home, window film slashes around 30% from the annual utility bill. Over the years, the energy savings can add up to thousands of dollars that go straight to your wallet.

Besides saving money, you’re also reducing environmental impact. Lower AC usage decreases electrical generation from fossil fuels. It causes less pollution and carbon emissions. So installing window film helps conserve natural resources while saving cash. That’s a winning combination for your home and the planet.

Keep Cool and Save this Summer

Sweltering summer heat is coming to Chicago. As AC units work overtime, energy bills climb along with temperatures. Fight back against heat and high utility costs with innovative window film. Reduce solar gain, filter UV rays, and watch your energy use drop. We serve all of Chicago including Lincoln Park, West Loop, Lakeview, Bucktown, Gold Coast, and more. Call Window Film Chicago today for a free consultation. Keep cool while saving money and going green.

Mike Kinsey has more than a decade of experience installing window film in the Chicago area. His years of experience have allowed him to develop a deep familiarity with all of the different types and styles of window film on the market including the various security, privacy, decorative, and energy efficient options. Together, he and his team have completed hundreds of commercial and residential installs, totaling an accumulation of over 250,000 square feet. In addition to being an expert on top brands such as LLumar, C-Bond, HDClear, Solar Gard, Solyx, and Huper Optik, Mike is also certified by 3M, EnerLogic, and AIA for continuing education.