Insulated-Window Maintenance

Windows are the number one source of heat loss in a home, and double- and triple-paned windows can make a big difference. Between their multiple layers of sealed glass are pockets filled with air or gas that provides extra insulation.

The thermal seals on these energy-efficient marvels can break, though. If there's fog, condensation or haze between the panes, the seal has broken. And since seals can't be fixed, the window or panes have to be replaced if you want to hold on to your energy savings.

Here are a few maintenance tips for protecting insulated windows' seals-and your investment:

• Open and close the windows gently. Banging them can cause the seals to fail.
  
  
• Wash the windows by hand rather than pressure washing. The force of the water pressure can also break the seals.
  
  
• Clean and lubricate the hardware, screws and moving window parts annually.