Is window film energy efficient?

One of the most notable benefits of window film is its ability to improve the energy efficiency of your space. While windows offer natural light and views, they are also one of the least energy-efficient parts of a space. Window film improves the energy efficiency of your existing glass by blocking the sun’s heat-causing infrared light and UV rays while allowing visible light to brighten your space.

Many don’t realize that the sun can bring numerous problems such as bothersome glare and uncomfortable indoor temperatures. Not to mention, an estimated 28% of cooling expenses are due to solar heat gain through windows. In turn, HVAC systems have to work hard to maintain a comfortable interior temperature, raising energy bills and potentially shortening the life of your HVAC system. Window film has the ability to reject up to 97% of the sun’s infrared heat, up to 99.9% of ultraviolet rays, and reduce glare. In turn, energy bills are reduced, occupant comfort is improved, and years can be added to the life of HVAC systems since they don’t have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature. Not to mention, you can expect to see a payback from installing window film in as little as 3 years. 

Not only can window film provide impressive sun control benefits, increasing occupant comfort and lowering energy bills, but it can also be used to earn points towards a LEED Certification. LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a green building certification that verifies whether a building is using strategies to improve energy-saving metrics. By investing in energy-efficient solutions, such as window film, commercial buildings can earn points towards a LEED Certification. The benefits of a LEED Certification include cost savings, improved energy efficiency, and greater occupant comfort. In a competitive market, these benefits can make your commercial space more attractive to future occupants. 

To learn more about the benefits of window film, explore this 3M case study in which window film was used to improve occupant comfort within the Embarcadero Center in San Francisco. For more information on our sun control products, visit our Sun Control page or contact one of our team members at PA Window Tint, Inc.