Public school districts across the country spend more than $6 billion annually on energy, and as much as 30% of the total energy use is inefficient or unnecessary, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star program website or www.energystar.gov.
Controlling Energy Costs Year Round
With today’s technology schools have a lot of energy saving options, and one that can’t afford to be overlooked is window film. Professionally installed window film helps control indoor temperatures by keeping out up to 86% of the sun’s heat, dramatically reducing air conditioning costs. And in the winter, the same window film can help retain interior heat, reducing heating costs.
Creating a More Comfortable Environment
Window film also helps regulate the temperature disparity between different parts of a school building, from classrooms that may be sunnier to administrative offices that may be shadier. Not only does this help conserve energy, it also make the school environment more comfortable for students, teachers, and staff. Window film offers glare reduction benefits too, reducing eyestrain for students working on their computers, and reducing the need for as much artificial lighting– that’s another energy saving benefit.
Offering Benefits Beyond Energy Savings
There are benefits of installing window film in schools that save money in other ways, including protection from fading. Window films can screen out nearly 100% of harmful ultraviolet rays that damage interior furnishings, flooring, artwork, and more. The longer interior fixtures last, the less money schools need to spend in replacement costs.
Window film also offers another key benefit that could be considered priceless: increased safety and security for students, teachers, and staff. In the aftermath of the tragic shootings in Newtown, CT, school safety and security is a high priority. If a bullet were to strike a window during a similar tragic event, safety and security films are designed to hold the shattered glass in place, potentially reducing the risk of injury and hopefully, decreasing casualties.