How To Maintain Your Energy Efficient Windows | Plano, TX
Energy efficient windows are a significant investment for any home or business. Not only do they save money on energy bills, but they also help to protect the environment. If you live in Plano, TX, you know that the summer heat can be brutal. Energy efficient windows can help to keep your home or office cool, even during the hottest days of the year.
However, caring for these windows is essential to ensuring that they continue to provide you with benefits for years to come. Here are some tips for keeping your windows in top condition:
1. Regularly Clean and Dust Your Windows
Your windows can accumulate a lot of dust and dirt, especially if they’re near busy streets or construction sites. It’s essential to clean your windows to remove any build-up of dirt and grime.
You can use a soft cloth or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove dust from the surface of your windows gently before applying a cleaning solution. A microfiber cloth is an excellent tool for cleaning because it won’t scratch the window’s surface.
Check the tracks and frames of your windows for dirt and debris. This is especially important with double-hung windows, which have grooves on both the top and bottom of the window frame. Use a cotton swab or an old toothbrush to clean out any gunk accumulated in these areas.
2. Use a Mild Cleaning Solution
When cleaning your energy efficient windows, avoid using harsh chemicals. These can damage the window’s surface and reduce its ability to reflect heat. Instead, opt for a mild soap and water solution or a glass cleaner designed for your windows.
Acidic cleaners can cause permanent damage to vinyl windows and frames. The same suggestions apply to vinyl frames. Choose a mild soap and water solution, or use a vinyl-safe product designed to remove the residue that builds up over time. Remember to rinse thoroughly with water and dry with a soft cloth or chamois.
Don’t overclean your windows, especially if they have a protective coating. Repeated scrubbing can damage this surface and cause streaks or dullness.
3. Avoid Harsh Scrubbing
When cleaning your windows, avoid scrubbing the window’s surface harshly. This can damage the window’s surface and reduce its ability to reflect heat. Instead, use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the window gently. Consider purchasing a squeegee to help speed up the drying process.
4. Don’t Use Abrasive Materials
Avoid using abrasive materials such as steel wool or sandpaper when cleaning your energy efficient windows. These can damage the window’s surface and reduce its ability to reflect heat. Instead, use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the window gently. If a stubborn spot doesn’t come off with a soft cloth, you can use a toothbrush dipped in a mild cleaning solution.
5. Repair Any Damaged Window Seals
If you notice any damage to your energy-efficient window’s seals, it’s vital to have them repaired as soon as possible. Damaged seals can allow air and moisture to enter the window, reducing its ability to reflect heat.
If you’re unsure how to repair your window’s seals, you can contact a professional window installer or repair company in Plano, TX.
6. Apply a Polymer Sealant
Regularly applying a polymer sealant to your energy efficient windows can help to prevent dust, dirt, and moisture from entering the window. This will help keep your windows looking clean and functional for years to come.
Whether you choose a spray-on sealant or an adhesive one, make sure that it’s designed for your windows so that you don’t inadvertently damage the window’s surface. Ask your installation company or repair technician for recommendations if you’re unsure which sealant to use.
7. Inspect Your Windows Regularly
It’s essential to inspect your energy efficient windows regularly for any damage or signs of wear and tear. If you notice any cracks, holes, or gaps in the window, it’s vital to have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent air and moisture from entering the window.
You should also check the window’s seals regularly to ensure that they’re intact and not damaged. If you notice any damage, you can contact a professional window installer or repair company to have the seals repaired or replaced.
8. Replace Cracked Panes
If you have an energy-efficient window with cracked panes, it’s critical to have them replaced as soon as possible. Cracks can allow air and moisture to enter the window, reducing its ability to reflect heat.
You can contact a professional window installer or repair company in Plano, TX, to have the cracked panes replaced. They will probably be able to match the new panes to the existing ones to make them less noticeable.
9. Don’t Forget to Clean the Screens
If your windows have screens, it’s essential to clean them regularly. Dust and dirt can build up on the screens, reducing the window’s ability to reflect heat.
You can use a mild soap and water solution or a glass cleaner designed explicitly for energy efficient windows to clean your window screens. Avoid using abrasive materials, which can damage the screens. A vacuum with a brush attachment can also help to remove stuck-on dirt and dust.
10. Clear Drainage Holes
If your energy efficient windows have drainage holes, it’s essential to keep them clean. Debris and dirt can build up in the drainage holes, reducing their ability to drain rainwater from the window. This can cause condensation or frost to form on the window.
You can use a toothpick or a small wire brush to clean your drainage holes. If the holes are very dirty, you can soak them in a mild cleaning solution for a few minutes before brushing them out.
If you’re in the market for new windows, contact Energy Window Solutions. We offer a wide variety of high-quality energy efficient windows that help you save money on your energy bills. We also provide installation and repair services, so we can help you keep your windows in excellent condition for years to come. Call us today to learn more about our services and schedule your consultation!