Does Window Film Reduce Energy Costs?

Yes. window film reduces energy costs in buildings by blocking up to 80% of solar heat and improving insulation. Low-E and solar control films lower HVAC energy use, up to 40% of total energy. Read on to learn how.

Window films work by modifying how glass manages heat transfer, addressing one of the most significant sources of energy inefficiency in buildings. According to the Australian Window Association, glazing can account for up to 87% of building envelope heat gain and 49% of building envelope heat loss. This makes windows a critical area to address when aiming to improve energy efficiency.

Window films function through several mechanisms:

During hot Australian summers, window films reflect and absorb solar radiation before it enters the building. This thermal barrier significantly reduces the heat that penetrates through windows, decreasing the need for air conditioning. According to industry data, wint tint can reject as much as 80% of solar energy, equivalent to the highest performing glass available in the market.

Conversely, during cooler months, Low-E window films help retain interior warmth by reflecting heat back into the room rather than allowing it to escape through the glass. This dual-season benefit makes window films particularly valuable in Australia’s varied climate zones, where both heating and cooling costs can be substantial throughout the year.

By moderating indoor temperature fluctuations, window films directly impact energy consumption. According to data from the Australian government’s Energy Efficiency Exchange, electricity usage related to heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) typically accounts for approximately 40% of total building energy consumption and 70% of base building energy consumption. By addressing this significant energy drain, window films can deliver measurable savings.

Beyond energy savings, window films reduce glare and create more comfortable indoor environments. This improved comfort often leads to less reliance on artificial temperature control, further contributing to energy reductions.

These specialised films are designed specifically for maximum energy efficiency. According to industry data, Low-E films can reduce solar heat gains in summer by up to 72% and help retain interior heat during cooler months by up to 24%. The ‘E’ stands for emissivity, which measures how much heat or infrared energy is emitted by a surface.

These films come in various formats including dual reflective, silver reflective, low reflectivity, and spectrally selective options. They primarily focus on reducing solar heat gain and UV penetration while maintaining varying levels of visible light transmission.

The Window Energy Rating Scheme (WERS) provides independent verification of window film performance. WERS-certified films have been tested and rated for their annual energy impact on buildings in various Australian climate zones. When installed by accredited professionals, these films can contribute to a building’s overall energy rating, potentially increasing its market value.

Research and case studies from across Australia provide concrete evidence of the energy-saving potential of window films:

A trial conducted by Sustainability Victoria found that applying window film to existing windows in living areas resulted in modest reductions of winter heating energy use in the range of 3% to 4% on average, with one property achieving estimated savings of 12.1%.

Industry sources suggest more significant figures, particularly for commercial buildings. For example, Low-E window films have been documented to improve the winter insulating performance of a clear, single window pane by up to 92%, making them comparable to base-level double glazing but at a fraction of the cost.

The economic case for window films is compelling. Analysis indicates that the typical return on investment (ROI) for Low-E window film installations ranges from 2 to 5 years. When installed as a DIY project, the Sustainability Victoria study found a payback period of around 2 years, making it one of the more cost-effective energy efficiency upgrades available to Australian property owners.

This relatively quick payback period is particularly attractive when compared to more expensive alternatives like window replacement or double glazing.

1. Consider climate-specific films that address the primary energy challenge for your region (heat gain in northern regions, heat retention in southern areas).
2. Select WERS-rated films installed by accredited professionals to ensure maximum energy performance.
3. Evaluate the specific needs of different rooms and facades, as optimal film choices may vary depending on orientation and usage patterns.
4. Calculate potential ROI based on current energy costs and expected savings, which typically result in payback periods of 2-5 years.
5. Don’t overlook additional benefits beyond energy savings, including increased comfort, reduced UV damage to furnishings, and potential increases in property value.

Ready to slash your energy bills and boost comfort year-round? Contact EverClear Window Tinting today and discover how our premium window films can transform your home or office with expert installation and lifetime warranty. Call now or drop by our Castle Hill workshop, let’s make your space cooler in summer, warmer in winter, and more energy-efficient all year long!