Can Evans, Ga Homeowners Use Renewable Energy for Their Home

Can I Use Renewable Energy for My Home

Fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas can be converted to provide electricity, but once supplies are used up, they cannot be replaced. Sun, wind, and water are natural resources that are renewed continuously and can be harnessed to generate energy with a lower environmental impact than fossil fuels. For homeowners, renewable energy can reduce your need for conventional power and offers the potential for considerable energy savings.

Grid-Connected Systems

While people living in remote areas may use stand-alone renewable energy systems, most homeowners purchase a grid-connected system. When the sun is shining, the water is running, or the wind is blowing, the system provides the power. If resources are less plentiful, electricity from the grid takes over, and your utility charges the difference between what you use and what you produce. Conversely, when your system generates excess electricity, your utility buys it from you in the form of credits to your bill.

Solar Electric Systems

A solar electric system, also called a photovoltaic system, typically involves installing solar panel racks on a roof. Sunlight captured by the panels goes through a converter that generates electricity to heat your home and water as well as power appliances and lighting. Companies may lease panels to homeowners, and some communities offer collective solar systems in which each homeowner gets a share of the power generated. To see if your state offer rebates, tax credits, and other incentives for solar electric systems, check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency.

Wind Electric Systems

If you have at least one acre of land with good wind resources, you can install a small wind turbine that reduces energy costs by as much as 90%. These turbines are large fans atop 100-foot towers. Wind turns the fan blades to power an internal generator that connects to your breaker panel. Because peak operating times for wind and solar systems occur at different times of the day and year, homeowners often choose hybrid systems that combine the two resources.

Water Electric Systems

If you have a stream, creek, or other source of flowing water on your property, you can install a small 10-kilowatt hydropower system that will generate enough electricity to power a large home. Typically, hilly or mountainous sites with steadily falling water work best for this type of system.

Renewable Energy Requirements

To determine the ideal system type and size for your property, contact your state or local energy office, or a renewable energy organization to help you analyze your existing energy loads and to learn about codes, ordinances, and requirements regarding acceptable equipment and use of land. Some states or communities require permits and inspections to ensure that your system is installed properly and compliant with safety standards. 

The independence gained from using renewable energy can be very rewarding over the long-term for you and the environment. But even if you are not ready to invest in a renewable energy system, many utility companies offer residents the opportunity to buy electricity made from the sun, wind, and water.

Window to the world

Window to the World

 

Beauty, safety and energy savings. It’s amazing what a thin layer of window film can do for glass used in homes and buildings alike. Window film is an often overlooked means of energy efficiency and protection that combines practical function and aesthetic beauty. Many homeowners are unaware, have misconceptions of, or don’t fully understand the benefits of window film. This makes it critical for homebuilders to be educated on its advantages so that they can offer it to homeowners as a way to increase their own profits while giving buyers better efficiencies.

WHAT EXACTLY IS WINDOW FILM? 

Window film is a flexible product composed of one or more layers of coated or chemically treated polyester that can be installed on glass. It’s primarily used for retrofit applications to existing windows. There are many types of window film. Most fall into the solar control category. These films are designed to help protect a home or commercial building from the harmful effects of the sun including heat, fading and UV radiation. Other types of film include decorative, privacy and security. There are literally hundreds of options to choose from. 

WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM WINDOW FILM?

Anyone from residential homeowners to commercial building owners/tenants can benefit from window film. Window film can save money on electric bills, protect people from harmful UV rays that can cause skin-related issues including cancer and they can protect valuable interiors by helping to reduce fading. 

What are some of the other benefits of window film?

• Reduce the amount of heat that transmits through glass windows and doors;
• Make homes and buildings more energy efficient in summer and winter;
• Reduce glare and enhance visibility;
• Increase privacy in the home;
• Block up to 99 percent of harmful UV rays;
• Help hold glass shards together if broken; and
• Help reduce fading of flooring and furnishings. 

DOES WINDOW FILM HELP SAVE MONEY?

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that one-third of a building’s cooling load is from solar heat gain through windows, and nearly 75 percent of existing windows are not energy efficient. Professionally installed window film can reduce cooling costs by up to 30 percent. 

In the winter, the film helps retain interior heat, reducing heating costs. Many window films can qualify for “green” credits, and energy rebates helping homeowners become more energy efficient while reducing costs.

IS WINDOW FILM EASY TO MAINTAIN?

Windows with film applied are easy to clean with a soft, non-abrasive, clean cloth, paper towel or synthetic sponge. Be sure to use a standard, non-abrasive glass cleaning solution. Once the glass is cleaned, it’s important to use a soft cloth or squeegee for drying purposes. 

HOW LONG WILL THE FILM LAST?

The effective life of window film will vary by the type of film, the type of glass, window construction, and environmental and climate conditions. However, most solar control films are warranted for residential use for as long as the homeowner owns the property. Commercial warranties vary, but standard interior applications usually carry a minimum of a 10-year warranty. Check with each manufacturer for the specific warranty terms for each product they offer. 

WILL THE FILM HELP PROTECT FURNISHINGS?

Nothing can eliminate fading completely. However, window film can significantly slow the effects of heat and UV that are main causes of fading of flooring, fabrics and furnishings. And, contrary to popular belief, installing window film will not kill house plants. Although plants may initially need time to adjust to the light change, they should resume regular growth after a few days. 

While architects, consultants and remodelers can use window film in retrofit applications on existing glass, it should also be high on the list of enhancements for new homebuilders. Builders can use standard windows and install window film to improve their performance.

Greater efficiency. More comfort. A possible energy rebate for the homeowner. Potentially more profits for the home builder. Combining all of those benefits makes window film a wise investment.

Huper-Optik window films qualify for tax credits

Congress Extends Tax Credit For Energy Saving Window Film

The International Window Film Association Educates Consumers On How To Take Advantage of the $500 Tax Credit

January 06, 2015 09:17 AM Eastern Standard Time

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Window Film is eligible for tax credits recently extended by Congress and the tax incentive can cover up to 10 percent of the cost of the installation of window films to a maximum of $500, reports the International Window Film Association (IWFA). The one-year retroactive tax credit may allow taxpayers to claim the incentives on their 2014 returns filed in 2015.

“We are delighted that Congress recently passed HR 5771 that includes tax incentives for energy efficient home improvements, such as installing window film,” said Darrell Smith, executive director of the nonprofit IWFA. To make people more aware about the many benefits of window films the IWFA offers informational videos available at www.iwfa.com and free consumer booklets.

As a long-term and cost-effective solution for saving energy, window film qualifies in the legislation as part of a building’s ‘insulation envelope’. It can reduce energy consumption from solar heat gain in summer or reflect interior heat back inside in winter, while allowing in natural light without the negative impact of UV exposure. Year-round, window film can help to control glass breakage and may prevent glass shards from hurting people. Consumers should check with their window film installer or smanufacturer to determine if their product qualifies under the tax incentive program.

While reducing our energy use and an energy user’s overall carbon footprint, some energy-efficient changes require significant investment, but window film has been shown to be a cost-effective means of improving energy performance. Window Film is also part of the California building code, in part due to its recognition for offering a high-value, low-cost method for saving energy.

About the International Window Film Association

The International Window Film Association (IWFA) is a unified industry body of window film dealers, distributors, and manufacturers that facilitates the growth of the industry by providing unbiased research, influencing policy and promoting awareness of window film. The organization builds alliances with trade associations, utilities and government agencies to advance dealers’ and distributors’ businesses and provide value to their customers. Join the IWFA on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Evans, Ga homeowners save energy and block harmful UV with window film.

International Window Film Association (IWFA) — yeah, I didn’t realize that existed — reported last week that “a comprehensive analysis of window film found it to be the most cost-effective energy saving choice for Californians when used in retrofit applications on homes and buildings.” Interesting.

Energy & Financial Savings

The paypack period for window film was identified to be less than two years, with up to 70% return on investment (ROI). Of course, construction details, location, and window film used have an effect on the matter and can alter the energy savings and ROI.

Window Film’s Benefits

How does wind film help? Window film reduces solar heat gain while still letting in light. As a result, it lowers residents’ and businesses’ air conditioning and lighting costs. Window film also helps to cut out glare and UV exposure.

Combine window film with some white roofs and energy-efficient appliancesyou’ll have a pretty rockin’ electricity bill!

The Window Film Analysis

The analysis, conducted by ConSol, “compared installing window film on existing structures in the state to other traditional energy saving techniques such as updating HVAC systems, air sealing and caulking, and adding R-38 ceiling insulation, and found that window film came out ahead.”

“With over 70 percent of the buildings and homes in the California market having been constructed before 1980, window film has to be high on the list for every building retrofit project across the state,” said Mike Hodgson, president of ConSol.

Window film, an energy savings superhero?

To the casual observer, energy efficiency means very little, that is until they see the cost savings associated with making tweaks to their homes and businesses.  According to a new report, one energy retrofit may be more efficient than the rest.

Who's thought of installing window film on their windows lately?  Well, the International Window Film Association (IWFA) says you may want to move that up on the priority list.

In a study commissioned by the IWFA, and conducted by ConSol, the energy saving effect of installing window film was compared to several traditional energy saving techniques, such as updating HVAC systems, adding R-38 ceiling insulation, and air sealing and caulking.  The study took place in California and used the same variables the California Energy Commission uses in assessing energy savings.

The data shows that installing window film on new homes and businesses is not an attractive energy efficiency measure, as the windows are already using high performance glazing.  For example, the return on investment for window film installations in new office spaces is small, standing at 1%-3% per year.

Although, the story changes completely when discussing older homes and buildings.  In this area, the savings per cost of adding film to windows out performed all other energy saving measures. 

Three differing regions of the California were studied.  In the mild climate of Oakland, the return on investment ranged between 6% and 37% -- single pane existing windows have a 37% ROI, while double pane windows pay back at about 20% annually.

Meanwhile, the warmer climates of San Diego and Pasadena offered an even greater investment opportunity.  In San Diego, the ROI ranged from 16%-64%, with single pane windows paying back at an annual rate of 32%-64% and double pane windows paying at 20%-44%.  Pasadena saw the largest cost savings.  In this region, outfitting single pane windows with film represented a 34%-68% return on investment annually, while double pan windows represented a 20%-46% ROI.

Depending on the construction, location, and window film used, the study shows that installations will be paid off within two years.  There are several reasons for window film's effectiveness as an energy efficient tool.  For example, it reduces solar heat gain, while letting in natural light without harsh glare and UV exposure; therefore, it reduces air conditioning costs and lighting bills.

There is no doubt that installing window film on older homes and buildings is a smart investment in warm or moderate climates (cold climates were not assessed).  However, the opportunity becomes even brighter if you live in California, says Mike Hodgson, president of ConSol:  "With over 70% of the buildings and homes in the California market having been constructed before 1980, window film has to be high on the list for every building retrofit project across the state."

In Californian, 1980 represents the year state-wide building codes were put into effect.  Over 70% of greenhouse gas emissions related to single family homes in California can be attributed to residences built before 1980.  California's ambitious climate law, AB 32, calls for a 14% reduction in energy use in every building in the state by 2020.  This is the equivalent of eliminating the emissions from 1.8 million homes or 3.5 million cars.

The retrofit market will be booming in the near future, and the window film industry appears to be where the smart money will be flowing.

Can I slow down the fading and the damage to my furniture and wood floors with window film in Augusta, Ga ?

Hüper Optik is the smarter choice for your residential solar control solution. The excellent performance of these films exceeds the growing expectations of discerning consumers who are increasingly concerned about comfort, aesthetics, safety and security in the home.

Hüper Optik nanotechnology window films not only greatly reduce the total solar energy buildup in the house, they also cut off more than 99.9% of the ultraviolet rays that cause skin problems and fading of interiors. While protecting valuable home furnishings, the nonreflective films have the added feature of low reflectivity at night so that the view is not obscured. The layer of film also provides an additional level of safety by keeping glass fragments together in the event of accidental breakage.

Excelling as the industry leader, Hüper Optik is constantly upgrading and improving to meet the changing needs of our consumers. Our commitment is to deliver high-quality products and establish total customer satisfaction by providing the finest solar control solutions, creating the perfect window.

No, we just can't put auto film on your home or business

Professional dealer installers have film-to-glass recommendations from their manufacturers to use in assisting the customer in selecting the correct film for the particular windows and product benefits desired by that customer. 

Professionally installed films look better longer and are usually more likely to perform to specifications for their warranted lives, or even longer, than those improperly installed. 

Professional dealer installers have experience and/or training which can help them to identify unique or unusual circumstances which might affect either the installation or performance of a particular product in a given situation and might not otherwise be noticed. 

The warranties offered on quality films installed by professional dealer installers usually cover costs of removal, costs of replacement film, and costs of reinstallation. Film purchased elsewhere will likely only be covered for costs of replacement film in the event of a problem or product failure. 

Remember that the best film installed improperly or used in a situation where a professional dealer installer might not otherwise install that particular film will likely not live up to the customer’s expectations.