Natural Light And Minimize Your Energy Bills With Smart Window Solutions” />
Introduction
Natural light is one of the best sources of illumination for our homes. It not only helps reduce our electricity bills, but it also has health benefits like improving mood and sleep quality. However, traditional windows either let in too much light and heat or too little. Fortunately, there are now smart window solutions available that give you control over natural light and can help minimize your energy bills.
Smart Window Technologies
Electrochromic Windows
Electrochromic windows use a thin film coating that changes tint when voltage is applied, allowing you to control light transmission. With the flip of a switch or an app on your phone, you can instantly tint the window. This gives you privacy while still letting in some light. Electrochromic windows block out to 99% of light when fully tinted.
Thermochromic Windows
Thermochromic windows contain a thin film material that responds to temperature changes. The window tints automatically when the sun’s rays hit it and helps block heat and glare. It reverts to clear when the temperature drops. This passive technology requires no wiring or controls. It can reduce air conditioning use by limiting heat gain.
Photochromic Windows
Photochromic windows darken when exposed to UV light. The window glass contains special chemicals that react to the sun’s UV rays and darken to provide glare and heat control. The tint is fully reversible within 15 minutes of UV exposure ending. Photochromic windows work well for skylights and sunrooms.
Benefits of Smart Windows
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Reduced energy bills – By blocking heat and glare, smart windows can lower air conditioning use in the summer. In colder months, they allow in free solar heat to reduce heating costs. Overall, they can cut energy bills by around 20%.
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Increased natural light – Smart windows give you control over light transmission. On sunny days, you can block glare and heat while still transmitting some light. During darker months, you can leave them clear to maximize sunlight.
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Improved sleep – Removing glare and blocking awakening light in the mornings can lead to better sleep quality. The windows can be programmed to tint during sleeping hours.
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Added privacy – The ability to instantly opaque the windows gives you privacy and security. Smart windows block out peeping eyes when fully tinted.
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Enhanced aesthetics – Smart windows come in a variety of tint colors from champagne to bronze. The high-tech, sleek look enhances your home’s aesthetics.
Smart Window Options
There are a few different ways to add smart window functionality to your home:
Smart Window Films
Window films that can switch between clear and tinted states can be applied to existing windows. They come in solar, privacy, and blackout options. While effective, the film cannot reversibly change from clear to tinted.
Smart Window Inserts
Inserts like smart blinds can be placed between window glass panes. They give you control over privacy and light transmission. However, window inserts can only block light, not heat since they are inside the glass.
Full Smart Windows
Replacing your existing windows with electrochromic or other smart glass gives you the most complete control over light, heat, and privacy. The smart technology is infused right into the glass. While more expensive, you get superior performance and benefits.
Making Your Home Smarter
Integrating smart window solutions into your home can significantly reduce your energy bills while improving aesthetics and comfort. Here are some tips:
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Install smart windows in rooms with the most sun exposure like living rooms and bedrooms. This will maximize energy savings.
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Connect smart windows to home automation systems and smart assistants like Alexa for voice and app control. Program custom settings for different times of day.
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Place motion sensors near smart windows to automatically adjust tint when you enter or leave a room. This adds convenience.
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Use darker tints on windows facing the sunniest side of your home. Use lighter tints on opposite side windows to still allow light in.
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Consult with a smart window specialist for help selecting the right products and customizing them to your needs and home’s unique environment.
With strategic planning and product selection, smart window solutions can transform the way you light, heat, cool, and live in your home while being smarter with energy use. The ability to control sunlight and block heat on demand provides greater comfort, savings, and functionality.