ecoline windows explores new window technology
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Now more than ever Americans are facing challenges when it comes to energy consumption. One step to combating this issue could be smart windows. Window technology could be instrumental moving forward as the Department of Energy estimates that two percent of all American energy is being absorbed by residential windows. So what are some new technologies that could help Americans save money on windows and lost energy?TRANSCRIPT
Smart Windows Could Be Answer To Future Energy Crunch By Ecoline Windows January 8, 2014 Now more than ever Americans are facing challenges when it comes to energy consumption. One step to combating this issue could be smart windows. Window technology could be instrumental moving forward as the Department of Energy estimates that two percent of all American energy is being absorbed by residential windows. So what are some new technologies that could help Americans save money on windows and lost energy? Thermotropic Windows You have probably seen somebody wearing glasses that darkened when they went outdoors. This is known as photochromic technology. A reaction is created in the glass when light hits it. This seems like it could translate well to residential windows as well. In some environments it could. However, if you live in Minnesota and it is the middle of December you could encounter a sunny day where there is snow on the ground. If the sun hits the window the photochromic technology would force it to darken. Not ideal when there is snow outside. This will lower the internal temperature of your home and actually make your heater work harder. Thermotropic technology reacts to temperature. A cold but sunny day will keep the window clear allowing for the sun’s light to warm the home. A hot day outside means the windows would dim. This keeps the sun’s heat from entering the home and also keeps your air conditioning from working as hard. Suspended Particle Devices SPDs is a technology that involves two panes of glass or plastic with small suspended particles inside. Thousands of small particles are in between panes of
glass and when there is no electricity going through these panes the particles are allowed to float freely in a small film or gel. This is when the particles are blocking out light appearing as a dimmed window. When the particles are connected to a small amount of electrical current they begin to align and stiffen together. This allows light to enter between them as they are no longer free flowing but jointed. So how would you save money by adding an electric current to every window in the house. Manufacturers explain that 15 smart windows with SPD technology would cost about the equivalence of having a night light on for one night.
Liquid Crystals Liquid crystals are very similar to SPDs only the particles are larger and there are less of them between panes. While SPDs can dim a window drastically liquid crystals take a clear window and turn it translucent. These windows are common in offices and professional environments because they allow privacy but still let in a good amount of light.
In order to save money in the long run with these new technologies there will be the initial installments of these smart windows. The future will see more and more smart windows in residential buildings and once these residents see their monthly energy bill be significantly lower it appears the new technology will be well worth it. Founded in 1999, Ecoline Windows provides easy, worry-‐free window replacement to customers throughout Edmonton, Calgary, and Winnipeg. All Ecoline windows are manufactured in Vaughan, Ontario and are designed specifically to withstand the extreme weather of the harsh prairie climate. Our team combines a knowledgeable sales force, experienced installation crews, and a supportive customer service staff to deliver the best results in the business.