noscript

Energy-Saving Window Inserts Under the Microscope

Two independent studies have shown Indow inserts are a high-performance, energy-saving solution that make existing windows more efficient. The inserts reduce energy use by increasing the thermal insulation of existing windows, completely blocking drafts and improving human comfort.

Because we created Indow to make the built environment more energy efficient and mitigate climate change, we deeply value this research. We’re also proud of the awards validating our work, including winning the national Energy Efficiency Award at the CleanTech Open and the Green Award from Door & Window Market Magazine for being an “Overall Energy Saver.”

indow window comfort savings

The two studies were done by Portland State University’s Green Building Research Laboratory and the U.S. Department of Energy.

  • Four homes equipped with Indow window inserts and monitored for one year.
  • Natural gas usage decreased from 501 to 406 Therms over a 12-month period for average annual energy savings of 19%.
  • Reduced air flow ranging from 3.69 to 7.74 cubic feet per minute (CFM).
  • U-Value reduction (increase in insulation) from 1 to .54 in laboratory, the testing using mock single-pane windows with inserts.

What was Involved in the Testing of these Energy-Efficient Window Inserts?

Green Building Research Lab director David Sailor spearheaded a study of four older homes with single-pane windows in the Portland, OR metropolitan region and also tested the inserts in a laboratory setting. His lab researches indoor and urban air quality, air pollution and sustainable buildings.

The pilot involved four older homes with single-pane windows. Researchers calculated air infiltration rates for each home and used infrared imaging to detect heat loss after installing the inserts.

In addition, researchers tested the U-factor in a lab setting to measure how well the energy-saving window inserts insulated single-pane windows. The lower the U-factor, the better the insulation. Researchers used Standard Grade inserts (⅛” thick) over mock single-pane windows inside a 6’ X 4’ plywood enclosure. The “inside room” temperature was kept at 70℉ and “outside” at 0℉. Heat transmission and loss were monitored with a hand-held Window Energy Profiler.

indow window solutions savings

Impact of Portland State University’s Green Building Research Laboratory Study:

The testing showed Indow inserts lead to a nearly 20 percent reduction in energy use, considerably higher than the 10 percent reduction originally predicted by energy modeling. This is directly tied to the thermal comfort benefits: Indow inserts change the mean radiant room temperature by increasing the windows’ surface temperature. So not only do the inserts insulate against heat loss, people feel warmer standing next to acrylic than glass and are less likely to turn up the thermostat.

Oregon Public Broadcasting did a story on how PSU tested Indow inserts, which you can read here.

  • 21 percent reduction in heating, ventilating and air-conditioning energy use in a Seattle home.
  • Reduced air flow, cubic feet per minute (CFM) by 8.6 percent.
  • Occupant noted the house was “warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer” and the “temperatures are more even (throughout the house).” This shows that it not only helps insulate in winter, but is a go-to for heat-reducing solutions in summer.

What was involved in the testing?

The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory performed the test for the U.S. Department of Energy. PNNL is a U.S. Department of Energy national laboratory and received the Office of Science’s highest performance rating according to DOE 2016 SC Laboratory Performance Report Card.

indow window solutions comfort savings

A Seattle homeowner installed window inserts for historic home energy efficiency of a historic home in all 27 windows. An eGauge energy meter monitored and recorded the energy use in the home over six months, with current transformers (CTs) placed over individual circuits to disaggregate the energy use.

indow window solutions comfort window

Impact of Pacific Northwest National Laboratory Study:

The study added to a growing body of knowledge about the benefits of installing interior storms instead of replacing windows. It provided measurable energy savings and confirmed that inserts increase thermal comfort.


Indow’s Awards for Energy Performance:

CleanTech Open: National Energy Efficiency Award (2011).

Green Award from Door & Window Market Magazine for being an “Overall Energy Saver” (2014).

Edison Awards: Bronze in Energy Efficiency category (2011).

indow window clean tech open logo indow window edison awards logo

Snug Homes in Michigan

Indow worked with a home performance nonprofit to weatherize low-income housing in Michigan.

  • Weatherized 603 windows on 58 manufactured homes in Michigan.
  • 304% increase in U-factor performance.
  • Homeowners reported 100 percent satisfaction in post-installation surveys.
  • You can read more about it here.

Additional resources:

Interior storm windows are widely recognized as a tool for making existing windows energy efficient. This saves waste by keeping windows out of the landfill and also helps preserve the value of historic structures. You can read more about the value of storm windows with the following resources:

Saving Windows, Saving Money: Evaluating the Energy Performance of Window Retrofit and Replacement by the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Preservation Green Lab.

Attachments Energy Rating Council

Removable Interior Storm Windows from the Building America Solution Center at the U.S. Department of Energy.

Grade Types

Each grade blocks drafts and reduces outside noises, but our premium grades have special features to make your existing windows work the way they're designed to while providing additional benefits. Click here to read all of our grade descriptions.

To take the next steps on your order, there are two ways to submit your window measurements: an Indow provided laser, or your own tape measure. Either way, your measurements will be checked and confirmed by our proprietary measurement software Measure by Indow. This ensures a snug fit for your custom window insert.

To get a free estimate, use our online calculator or contact us today.

Build Your Own Estimate

Indow inserts provide instant comfort once they reach your windows.
Now you can get an instant estimate in 3 easy steps.

illustration of person laser measuring a window 1

Measure At Home

illustration of person entering measurements into computer 2

Enter Online

illustration of computer displaying estimate 3

See Your Estimate

We still check your measurements and provide accurate results down to the 1/32″, but this estimate is the first step in finding instant comfort.

Our Pricing Calculator is currently unavailable. Contact us to discuss pricing.

Let Us Help You

bedroom with window with Indow inserts installed for soundproofing in San Francisco

WE SHIP TO YOU!

You're one step closer to creating more comfort & quiet in your home.

Congratulations!

Fill out this form and one of our Comfort Experts will be in touch to prepare a specialized estimate for your space.

We value safety and privacy. We will never share, sell, or rent your data to third parties not directly related to your purchase or consideration of our products. Read our full policy here.

  • Popular Mechanics
  • Dwell
  • This Old House
  • Treehugger
  • The New York Times