Much is said about how improving your window insulation can improve your home’s energy efficiency. But, as they say, seeing is believing. Climate Seal put our thermal window inserts to the test to show how they help improve your window’s thermal insulation and in turn, more easily regulate indoor room temperature and put less strain on your HVAC system.
Why Do Windows Transfer Solar Heat?
Windows are a major source of heat gain in buildings simply because they contain glass, which the sun’s radiant energy is able to penetrate. This heat transfer of warm air moves through the glass and heats the interior space. Air leaks through gaps or cracks around the window’s frame can further contribute to warm air infiltration. Climate Seal thermal window inserts act as a barrier to lower the heat transfer through the glass. They also add extra insulation and help seal air leaks. But can this reduced heat transfer be shown to work?
Before & After Testing – Real Results
The infrared thermal imaging shown below reveals the before and after results of installing Climate Seal thermal window inserts from a test conducted by the Energy Tight LLC inspection in Charlotte, NC. The test shows the window temperature reduction that occurred with the installation of the window inserts.
Before Climate Seal:
- Direct sun: ~100–103°F
- Shaded glass: ~87°F
After Climate Seal:
- Direct sun: ~92°F
- Shaded glass: ~88°F
The table shows the change in surface temperature after the installation of Climate Seal thermal inserts.
| Condition | Before Climate Seal | After Climate Seal | Difference |
| Direct Sun (Pane 1) | 100.1°F | 92.8°F | -7.3°F |
| Shade (Pane 1) | 87.4°F | 88.3°F | +0.9°F |
| Direct Sun (Pane 2) | 101.0°F | 92.3°F | -8.7°F |
| Shade (Pane 2) | 90.2°F | 88.9°F | -1.3°F |
That’s a 7–9°F reduction in surface temperature in direct sun, proving Climate Seal thermal window inserts reduce solar heat gain.
Download Full Climate Seal Thermal Testing Results
What This Means for Homeowners
The lowering of solar heat gain provided by window inserts means cooler interiors in summer. This translates to less strain on HVAC systems in cooling interior spaces, which in turn translates to reduced energy bills. And, the increased comfort and consistent indoor temperatures are gained without sacrificing window aesthetics.
All in all, the improved thermal window performance means more energy-efficient windows and increased home energy savings.
Why Choose Climate Seal
Climate Seal removable thermal window inserts are a cost-effective way to insulate windows after they are installed and make your home’s climate control system more efficient. They are proven in both thermal and acoustic performance applications and trusted by architects and homeowners. They also work exceptionally well for historic preservation projects.
Learn more about Climate Seal’s products and how thermal inserts can improve your home’s window insulation or contact Climate Seal to request a consultation on how this proven solution can be applied to your home improvement project.
