Replacing your windows can quickly become a pretty pricey endeavour, and its often times that one task that we keep putting off again and again…and again.
But, with MassSave’s HEAT Loan program eligibility changing from year to year, replacing your windows should make it’s way right up to the top of your priority list. This is one incentive you don’t want to miss out on!
What is Mass Save HEAT Loan?
With the MassSave HEAT Loan, you can access up to $25,000 to pay for all program approved window replacements. The loan carries 0% interest and some have terms of up to 7 years for re-payment.
Can I Replace my Windows and Use the Mass Save HEAT Loan to Pay?
Yes. If the replacement windows you’ve chosen meet the MassSave program requirements, then you can absolutely pay for them with the MassSave HEAT Loan. For instance, if your Energy Assessment tells you that you need 12 windows replaced in your home and the cost of those 12 replacement windows is $20,000, then you’d be able to access $20,000 to pay for those windows. If you only needed 5 replacement windows at a cost of $3,000, then you could get up to $3,000 from the MassSave HEAT Loan program to pay for those replacements.
What windows qualify for the MassSave HEAT LOAN?
Ok, so you’re interested in the loan, but how do you know which windows qualify? It’s pretty straightforward…in order for your replacement windows to qualify for the MassSave HEAT LOAN they must:
Be Energy Star certified;
Have a U-Factor rating of 0.25 or lower (indicating how well the window insulates); and
Be triple-pane.
If your replacement windows meet the 3 criteria above, then they should be all set to qualify for the HEAT loan.
How do I know if it’s Time to Replace my Windows?
So you don’t want to miss out on the great opportunity that the MassSave HEAT Loan provides this year, but you also don’t want to replace your windows if you don’t need to. Which brings us to the more important questions of how you know when it’s really time to replace your windows?
Here are the top 5 signs that it's time to take the leap into window replacement territory:
High Energy Bills: If you notice that your energy bills have been steadily increasing, it could be a sign that your windows are no longer properly insulating your home. This means that your heating and cooling systems are working overtime to maintain a comfortable temperature, resulting in higher energy usage and costs.
Drafts: If you feel a draft around your windows, it's a clear sign that air is leaking into your home. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including old or damaged frames, loose or missing caulking, or worn-out weatherstripping. Drafts not only make your home uncomfortable in extreme temperatures, but they can also increase your energy bills.
Difficulty Opening or Closing: If your windows are difficult to open or close, it's likely that they have warped or swollen due to exposure to moisture or changes in temperature. This can make them less secure and less effective at keeping out unwanted noise and air.
Excessive Condensation: It’s important to emphasize that some condensation is perfectly normal on your windows, however, if you notice excessive condensation forming between the panes of glass in your windows, it may be a sign that the seals have failed and the insulating gas has escaped, resulting in reduced energy efficiency.
Age: Even if your windows don't show any of the above signs, if they're more than 20 years old, it's a good idea to consider replacing them. Older windows are typically less energy-efficient and less secure than newer models, and replacing them can help increase the value of your home in a competitive market.
If you're experiencing any of these issues, it's important to consult with a professional to determine the best course of action for your home. Knowing when to replace your windows is a tough call, so don’t be shy, give us a call and let us help you determine the best course of action. At the end of the day, we want to make sure you can enjoy improved energy efficiency, comfort, and security in your home. But most importantly, we don’t want you to miss out on an opportunity to access the MassSave HEAT Loan to help pay for your energy efficient upgrades!