9

I've been able to acquire several plastic-framed ("energy-saving") windows - it appears some contractor messed up the measurements and a whole batch of new custom-made windows for a nearby construction was discarded, then we managed to save quite a few before vandals got a sniff of something safe to break.

It should be quite easy to add some black-painted insulation backing, draw some black-painted pipes, and add the rest of infrastructure but will it work? How will the "energy-saving" properties of these windows affect such use - will they help keeping the inside very hot, or opposite, will they prevent IR from getting inside?

SF.
  • 677
  • 1
  • 5
  • 15
  • Welcome to Sustainable Living! Can you provide a bit more information? What exactly do you mean with "energy-saving windows"? – THelper Feb 06 '13 at 10:10
  • @THelper: Typical modern PVC profile framed windows with dual glass, like this or this - normal modern windows, as opposed to "antique" wooden-framed, or single glass. – SF. Feb 06 '13 at 11:48
  • 2
    short answer: no, they're more valuable as double-glazed sealed units, than as a bodged-together solar thermal thing. Maybe a greenhouse (glasshouse)? – 410 gone Feb 06 '13 at 12:16

1 Answers1

2

It depends.

Windows treated with IR blocking films will make them less efficient as a means of solar collection but double pane windows also provide better insulation than single pane windows.

EngergyNumbers suggestion of a greenhouse is also a good use for them. Especially if they have a UV blocking film. Several studies suggest plants are as sensitive to UV radiation humans are and blocking UV radiation can increase plant vitality.

Community
  • 1
Kenneth Cochran
  • 723
  • 6
  • 6