The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that 43% of U.S. homes have single pane windows - meaning that there is a great need for a simple, low-cost solution for energy efficient windows.

Indow Windows, named one of the Top 10 Green Building Products of 2011 by Sustainable Industries, are thermal window inserts that save energy without the high cost of replacing the windows or window panes.

Indow Windows stay in place by means of a spring bulb lining, which is PVC-free. The thermal insert itself is made from acrylic glazing, which is almost unnoticeable when attached to the window.

Energy Savings of Indow Window Inserts

Indow Windows can achieve 94% of the energy savings of a standard double-pane window, but for 15-20% of the cost.

Indow Windows cost about $13 per square foot, including installation costs. According to the company, the energy savings of the windows generate a 10-30% return on investment (ROI) per year.

Additionally, Indow Windows can reduce noise coming through the windows by at least 50%.

Where to Buy an Indow Window

Currently, Indow Windows are only available in the Northwest, but they are looking to expand nationally.

To purchase an Indow Window, you can contact a dealer. If you give them your window measurements, they will give you a free estimate. Then, if you choose to purchase the Indow Windows, a representative will come to perform precise laser measurements of your windows. Indow Window also installs the Indow Windows for you.

 

Since Indow Windows improve a building's energy efficiency, they can potentially help to earn credits toward LEED. Since the thermal inserts are designed for retrofitting existing windows, they would most likely be used in a building certified under the LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations + Maintenance (EBOM) rating system.

According to LEED EBOM, Indow Windows could help to earn the following credits:

• Energy and Atmosphere (EA) Prerequisite 2, Minimum Energy Efficiency Performance (0 points):
This prerequisite mandates a minimum level of energy performance for the LEED building. In LEED EBOM, this minimum level is either an ENERGY STAR rating of 69 or a demonstration that the building is 69% more efficient than similar buildings. (International projects have alternative compliance paths for this prerequisite.) The Indow Window can help to achieve this prerequisite because they increase the building's energy efficiency.

• EA Credit 1, Optimize Energy Performance (1-18 points): This credit awards points based on the percentage improvement over the minimum energy efficiency level established in EA Prerequisite 2. The Indow Windows make the building more energy efficient, potentially contributing to this credit.

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