# 3 Hidden Signs of Home Energy Loss in the Winter

- Link: https://mycoastalwindows.com/3-hidden-signs-of-home-energy-loss-in-the-winter/
- Published: 2020-02-04T14:12:01-05:00
- Author: Jeremy Wood

During New England winters, the last scenario any homeowner wants is energy loss.
Not only does this lead to an uncomfortable home, but you’ll also notice the impact
on your heating bill.

Unfortunately, not all signs of energy loss in the winter are obvious. Two of the
most prominent signs of energy loss is high energy bills and a home that always 
feels cold—but what hidden signs can we find during the wintertime?

## #1: Uninsulated Walls

Unless you have x-ray vision, you might not know if there is insulation inside your
walls—especially if you aren’t the original homeowner. However, this important (
yet hidden) missing element can easily cost you a significant amount of energy loss.

According to the [National Energy Foundation](https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/weatherize/insulation/where-insulate-home),
as much as 20% of home energy is saved with insulated walls.

Know that your walls aren’t the only area that needs sufficient insulation. This
graph from the Department of Energy highlights various energy escape points, many
of which go undetected during winter.

![energy loss in the winter](https://mycoastalwindows.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/
01/doe.webp)

Image Source: [DOE](https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/weatherize/insulation/where-insulate-home)

Based on this graph, many hidden areas allow energy to escape during winter. Since
energy loss isn’t just from poor insulation, let’s explore other factors that make
your HVAC system work harder.

## #2: Your Window’s Energy Saving Properties

You might have double or even[ triple-pane windows](https://mycoastalwindows.com/windows/)
installed in your home, but this doesn’t mean that your windows are energy efficient.

Your windows should have two important (yet invisible) components that prevent energy
loss in the winter. These include:

 * **Argon and krypton gases**: Manufacturers insert these odorless and colorless
   gases inside the window panes during production. It’s an insulating property 
   that keeps your home warmer in the winter and prevents heat from transferring
   through the glass.
 * **Low-e**: Manufacturers apply this colorless coating to the glass panes as another
   invisible element for energy savings. The purpose it serves in the winter is 
   allowing sunlight to naturally heat your home. In the summer, it blocks the sun’s
   rays and keeps your home cooler. This is a beneficial aspect for any window no
   matter the season.
 * **Frames without foam**: Engineers initially designed vinyl windows with hollow
   cavities inside. By opting for foam-filled window frames, you can improve the
   thermal performance of the window while increasing its U-Factor.

Energy-efficient windows can certainly help you prevent energy loss in the winter.
However, other exterior products such as [vinyl siding](https://mycoastalwindows.com/siding/),
[entry doors](https://mycoastalwindows.com/doors/), and roofing can help as well—
but these also come with their own hidden energy loss points.

## #3: Your Exterior Products Aren’t Properly Installed

This applies to _all _exterior remodeling products. Even the most energy-efficient
windows, doors, [roofing](https://mycoastalwindows.com/roofing/), and siding in 
the industry will not perform if incorrectly installed. Sometimes you can tell right
away if improper installation is costing you energy dollars, but other times it 
goes undetected for quite some time.

For example, some **_warning signs of incorrectly installed windows include_:**

 * **A gap around the window frames**: If you look at your window and you can see
   daylight around the frames, this is a major red flag of improper installation.
   Cracks that are less than ¼” thick can be sealed with caulking, but know that
   this is only a band-aid approach if the windows are outdated.
 * **Water damage: **If you notice yellow stains on the walls or near the ceiling,
   you might have a leak somewhere around the window frame or even the sash. If 
   water is able to get inside your home, energy is able to escape as well.
 * **Your windows are difficult to open or close: **Your windows should open relatively
   easy, even right after installation. If you notice that the windows aren’t opening
   or closing correctly, it’s time to take action. If a window sash is stuck and
   won’t fully close, energy can easily escape.

---

## Prevent Energy Loss in the Winter with Coastal Windows & Exteriors

No matter if you are getting new windows, doors, vinyl siding, or roofing, it’s 
important to hire experienced contractors for your new upgrade. Coastal Windows &
Exteriors is one of the top exterior contractors in Massachusetts, servicing various
areas of New England. Quality workmanship is our #1 priority, and you can count 
on our products and installation to keep your home comfortable all year long.

Call us at [978-304-0495](https://mycoastalwindows.com/3-hidden-signs-of-home-energy-loss-in-the-winter/978-304-0495)
for a quote and learn about our promos!

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