Consumers Struggle To Pay Their Electric Bills and Plan To Conserve in 2024

 

Window Film: A Solution to Alleviate Electric Bill Woes in 2024

In the midst of escalating electric bills, consumers worldwide are grappling with the financial strain imposed by soaring energy costs. As the calendar turns to 2024, households are facing the imperative to adopt innovative strategies to manage their electricity consumption effectively. Amidst these challenges, one solution gaining prominence is the utilization of window film to mitigate the burden of high electric bills.

The surge in electricity expenses is driven by various factors, including volatile fuel prices and the upkeep of infrastructure. Such increases place a significant strain on household budgets, prompting individuals and families to seek alternative means to curb their energy expenditure.

Enter window film – a simple yet effective solution that holds promise in reducing energy consumption within households. By applying window film to windows, homeowners can mitigate heat gain during the warmer months and heat loss during colder periods. This translates to reduced reliance on heating and cooling systems, leading to substantial savings on energy bills over time.

The mechanism behind window film is straightforward. The film acts as a barrier, reflecting solar heat away from the interior during summer months, thus reducing the need for air conditioning. Conversely, during winter, it helps to trap heat inside, minimizing heat loss through windows and easing the workload on heating systems.

Moreover, window film offers additional benefits beyond energy savings. It can enhance comfort by reducing glare and regulating indoor temperatures, creating a more pleasant living environment year-round. Furthermore, certain types of window film provide UV protection, safeguarding furnishings and interior décor from sun damage.

The adoption of window film aligns with broader efforts to promote energy conservation and sustainability. By harnessing the power of this simple yet effective technology, consumers can make tangible strides towards reducing their carbon footprint while simultaneously easing the financial strain of high electric bills.

Despite its potential benefits, the widespread adoption of window film faces challenges, including initial cost and installation considerations. However, the long-term savings and environmental benefits outweigh these hurdles, making window film a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers seeking to manage their electricity expenditure.

 

 

In conclusion, window film emerges as a viable solution to alleviate the burden of high electric bills in 2024. Its ability to enhance energy efficiency, improve comfort, and contribute to sustainability makes it an attractive option for households looking to navigate the challenges of escalating energy costs. As consumers continue to seek innovative strategies to manage their electricity consumption, window film stands out as a practical and cost-effective solution with the potenti
al to yield substantial long-term savings.

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Apple Employees Keep Walking Into Glass Panels

Apparently Apple has never heard of our beautiful line of decorative and frosted window films. Apple opened its new campus last year -- a stunning, glass-walled filled monstrosity designed to encourage openness and collaboration. But Bloomberg reports today that this achievement in design appears to have sacrificed some functionality  because, apparently, Apple employees keep walking into the glass.

This could be a serious OSHA violation and employees have even started placing post-it notes on glass walls and doors to help prevent an embarrassing face plant.

Our line of decorative and frosted window films have been solving this very problem for decades. A window films could add style and safety to Apples headquarters without sacrificing their "open" floor plan.

Check out some of our work below. If you would like a free estimate, please give us a call at (727) 403.8468, or visit us at www.FloridaWindowFilms.com

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Window Film Protects Wood Floors and Furnishings From Fading

Protection from Sun-Caused Fading Floors and Furnishings

Flooring and furnishings are expensive. Window film is one of the best ways to protect your home from the harmful effects of the suns light, heat and UV radiation

 

Furnishing a home can be expensive. From flooring to furnishings, the costs can add up quick. With so much invested, doesn’t it make sense to take steps to protect that investment? While we all love open and airy homes with lots of windows, the biggest threat to your floors and furnishings can be right outside those same windows, the Sun. The sun is one of the primary causes of fading floors and furnishings. Most people do not want to sacrifice their views and the open feeling of their home to protect their floors and furniture from the sun, so what can be done? One of the best ways to attack the primary causes of sun damage and fading is with window film. This article will examine exactly what causes the fading and damage to occur and how window film is a great solution to consider.


 


What Causes Fading and Sun Damage?

A common misconception is that UV rays are what cause fading floors and sun damage to furnishings. While they are certainly the largest component, as this chart illustrates, they only account for 40%. Solar heat and visible lights are also major contributors, accounting for 25% of the problem. The last factor is comprised of a variety of this we simply put under the heading “Other”. These are things like interior lighting, humidity, etc.
The first thing this chart demonstrates is that you cannot “stop” fading completely unless the item you want to protect in a dark, climate controlled room. In real life, the most you can do is attack the major contributors of fading in a significant enough way to slow down the process. By slowing the process, you extend the life of your floors or furnishings.


Why Is Window Film a Good Solution?

 As mentioned above, most people do not want to “close-up” their home in an effort to stop the damage from occurring. So, assuming the windows will not be covered, you need to attack the factors before they enter the home. Window film is a great option because it attacks all three major contributors of fading. Most professionally installed window films will block 99%+ of the UV rays. In addition, many window films can significantly reduce the heat coming through the window. Finally, it is possible to block up to 60% of the visible light coming through a window without noticeably darkening the window. When you combine these three factors, you can take a large slice out of the pie shown above. This protection can be accomplished while retaining the open feel of your home by using window film.

We hope this brief article shed some light on what the factors of fading floors, rugs and furniture are and how utilizing window film is one of your best options to address this issue. If you are interested in learning more, contact a window film professional to schedule a free, no obligation consultation.

Article from: http://windowfilmpros.com/protection-fading-floors-furnishings/

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Window Film Versus Window Shades

Window Film Versus Window Shades

Window Films & Tinting can add extra benefits that blinds, curtains and shades simply can't offer.

 

Deciding between installing window film or window shades might be a matter of personal preference, but when you compare their value in energy efficiency and protection, you can make an informed decision that will benefit you in the long run.

Solar Heat Gain

Shades can be effective at blocking sunlight and reducing incoming heat when they are light-colored and lowered or closed completely. In states like Florida where it’s sunny a majority of the year, shades may reduce heat gain up to 45%. Some styles though, especially darker shades, can actually absorb and trap solar heat and expel it into a room.

Because window film reflects sunlight before it enters the home, it can block up to 78% of the sun’s heat and absorb the remaining heat that isn’t reflected. This means air conditioning does not need to run as frequently, so energy bills are lowered. Additionally, the insulating properties of window film provides year-round savings by diminishing home heat loss through window glass when outdoor temperatures are colder.

Glare Reduction

When direct sunlight causes glare on screens or business displays, shades allow you to block or redirect light. This also means rooms are darker and more interior lighting is required to account for the loss of natural light. Ultimately, energy usage and cost is increased.Window film controls excessive brightness and prevents glare without forsaking natural light. As well, you are able to look out windows and enjoy views and scenery, which has been shown to increase well-being and mood.

UV Protection

Although natural light can offer natural beauty, the sun’s UV rays can be damaging to people and furnishings. Harmful UV radiation that filters in through windows can cause skin damage and cancer as well as increase premature fading on fabrics, furniture and flooring. Depending on their material, window shades may not block UV rays effectively and can actually fade or crack from sun exposure. In contrast, window film blocks up to 99% of UV rays to provide safe, natural light.

Privacy

Some businesses need to provide a level of privacy for their patrons and many homeowners do not want exposed windows that display their valuables. Window shades will close off onlookers, but the loss of natural light and views can be displeasing. The reflective properties of window film allow you to see outside during the day, but no one can see inside.

Safety

Shades may block some shattering glass from projecting into a room, but window film makes windows more durable. If someone or something breaks the glass, the film helps keep the window intact, and broken pieces do not enter a building and cause personal injury.


You can shed some light on the benefits of using window film versus window shades when you compare how each addresses saving energy and protecting self and home. Depending on your goals, you may find window film can give you more bang for your buck.


Florida Window Films is a leader in solar and security window film installations. Contact them today for a free estimate.

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Lower energy costs and increase tenant comfort with commercial window tinting.

Commercial Window Tinting saves money, increases comfort for workers and customers and protects glass and furnishings.

It takes a leader to protect one. As one of the countries leading installer of architectural window tint, Florida Window Films has been enhancing well-known buildings around the country for years – with proven results. From the World Trade Center 1 to Major Universities and retail chains, commercial window tinting exceeds expectations of even the toughest customers with convincing results.

• Increased tenant comfort and reduced tenant complaints
• Tenant retention due to more usable space – eliminates hot and cold spots
• Updates building appearance without changing the overall exterior appearance
• Rapid return on investment
• Local utility rebates are often available

Download our window film performance data:

 

Solar Control & Energy Savings
Safety & Security
Safety Testing Information
Decorative

 Contact Florida Window Films today for a free estimate 

 

 

 

 

 

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Window Tinting Protects Fish Tanks From Algae Growth

If your fish tank sits in direct sunlight for part or all of the day, a clear UV (Ultra Violet) blocking window film can help keep the tank clean by retarding algae growth. Standard UV-blocking window films will stop nearly all of the suns harmful UV radiation - which many algae require for photosynthesis.

A clear UV window film protects your fish tank from algae growth

 Artificial lighting can also be to blame for algae blooms, but if a fish tank receives ANY direct sunlight installing a solar UV blocking window film will help slow the rate of algae growth regardless of other non-solar light sources.

Algae requires UV for photosynthesis. A UV blocking window film denies Algae this crucial element and keeps your tank cleaner longer.

 By virtually eliminating the UV radiation that algae requires to grow, you will keep your tank cleaner for longer and your tank will require less frequent cleanings. A clean tank means a happy fish!

Florida Window Films carries a wide range of clear UV blocking films to protect your fish tank. Contact us today for a free estimate. We also provide DIY films!

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Best Window Tint Percentage For Your Home or Business

A common question we get here at Florida Window Films is "Whats the best tint percentage (darkness) for my home windows?"  A window films light transmission percentage is a representation of the "darkness" of a window film, or how much light the film allows through the coated window. Understanding window tint percentages was covered in depth in our post here.

The most common shade for a home window film installation is anywhere from 25%-45% VLT

The most common darkness, or visual light transmission percentage, for a home is between 25% - 45%. It is not uncommon though to have a much darker shade (5%-15%) on windows with very high heat transmission, or where customers desire a lot of glare reduction. With the introduction of heat rejecting ceramic films we are also seeing an increased installation of higher light transmission window films (50%-70%) installed on homes and businesses for those clients who desire heat rejection and UV protection but don't need/require glare reduction, or would like the maximum light transmission without sacrificing heat rejection.

The factors involved in determining what the proper shade for window tinting in your home should be is as follows:

1. What type of windows are being coated? (i.e., double paned, tempered, annealed, laminated)
2. Is glare reduction a primary reason for window tinting?
3. Does the client want to maintain an exterior to interior view (Retail shops like customers being able to see the merchandise for window shopping!)
4. Are there any HOA or Condo association restrictions on glass coating or window tinting?
5. How much light are you comfortable blocking?
6. Is privacy an issue?

As you can see, there are many factors involved in what darkness, or window tint percentage is right for your home or business. A qualified professional window film installer will better help you understand what will work best for your conditions and requirements and help steer you in the right direction when picking a window film for your home.

Florida Window Films is the leader in window film installations in the Greater Tampa Bay Area. We have also installed safety, security, solar and decorative films nationwide. We would be happy to help plan your window film needs. Visit us at www.FloridaWindowFilms.com

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Electric Window Tint Has A Big Break Through

A big break through in electric window tinting for vehicles has been announced by Continental automotive supplier. Continental has developed a new technology that can tint car windows at the push of a button. Intelligent Glass Control uses the application of, or lack of, an electric current to specially made glass, offering privacy, comfort, safety and emissions benefits.

Continental's Intelligent Glass Control uses special films with embedded particles that change state depending on whether or not there is an electric current

The technology is not new to automotive glass, but the ability to add the technology to a vehicles side and rear windows is.

The head of Continental's body and security unit, Andreas Wolf, says the technology can offer privacy, increased comfort and improved safety for vehicle occupants. It can, of course, reduce the effects of bright sunshine or glare, but can also eliminate the impaired visibility and reduction in vehicle control of a driver adjusting the car's sun visor.

Check out the full story at GizMag - http://www.gizmag.com/continental-intelligent-glass-control/40873/

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Window Tint - How Dark is Too Dark?

Window tinting is almost a necessity in bright or warm climates, but state laws govern how dark is too dark when it comes to tinting your vehicle's windows.

Window Tinting "darkness" is measured in terms of its VLT, or Visual Light Transmission

 Discouragingly, there is no national standard for window tint, despite the fact that drivers often travel across state lines. However, there are some generalities among state window tint laws when it comes to how dark your vehicles windows can be tinted.

So how dark is too dark for car window tinting?

Front Side Windows Are Typically Lighter

Most states measure the legal amount of tinting of a car window by its VLT, or Visual Light Transmission -- the percentage of light that can pass through the tinted window.

Because of the need for a driver to not only see out the front side windows to use ones side mirror, as well as the need for police officers to see the driver of any vehicle, the amount of tinting allowed on the driver's-side window must be lighter or at least as light as every other window. Federal regulations require auto manufacturers to make pretty much every passenger car's windows have a low enough light transmittance to allow for driver visibility -- 70 percent VLT.

However, these rules don't  stop car owners from installing after-market window tint which is darker than 70 percent VLT, which is where state laws come in. For example, California, along with many other states, prohibits front window tinting which is 70 percent VLT or less, in line with the federal standard, while drivers in Florida can have a 28% VLT tint on their front windows.

However, in states with high VLT requirements for front windows they typically allow darker window tinting on the back and rear windows.

State Window Tinting Law Chart

Sunnier States May Allow More Tint

Anyone who has been in a black car in states closer to the equator can testify that window tint is extremely important in sunny zones. In Texas, for example, the front side windows can have an VLT as low as 25
percent, while the rear side windows can be as dark as possible. In Florida, the front windows may have no less than 28 percent VLT with tint, and back windows of no less than 15 percent VLT.

Medical Exemptions

Drivers who have a medical need for more tint than allowed by state law can often be eligible for a medical exemption, usually with a doctor's or optometrist's recommendation.

Don't always take your installers word for it, know the rules and laws of the road before you have your car's windows tinted. You'll want to review your state's laws before putting any tint on your car.

So, How Dark is Too Dark?

State and federal regulations lay down regulations for how dark your car's window tinting can be but common sense will also play a factor in determining how dark is too dark. For younger drivers a 25%-35% can be just fine to maintain proper sight in day and night time driving conditions. For older drivers, or drivers with less than perfect sight, a lighter film 45%-55% might be better to ensure sight conditions are optimal for driving at all times of the day.

Remember, dark window tinting doesn't always mean higher heat rejection. Today's ceramic window films can block just as much, if not more, of the sun's heat while still maintaining a high heat rejection.

Florida Window Films is a leading supplier and installer of high performance solar, security, decorative and smart window films. 

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10 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Window Tinting

Window Film is a great addition to your home or business

Where do you spend the bulk of your time? Most likely it’s your home and workplace. That’s why it’s always surprising to learn that so many people spend hours a day feeling uncomfortable in the places that matter most.

Heat, cold and glare can interrupt a quiet afternoon at home or a productive day at the workplace. It can also damage belongings, waste energy and raise utility bills. There are solutions out there to reduce temperature fluctuations and energy consumption, but these options are often expensive and sometimes impractical.

Is there a better solution? Indeed there is. Solar Window Tinting.

Like tinted car windows, these thermal films are a cost effective and simple way to repel heat and block ultraviolet rays. Let’s dive right into 10 things you probably didn’t know about today’s modern window films.

1.They are quick to install and remove. Window film consists of thin layers of metal laminated between polyester. These films are cut to size and installed and can be easily removed without damage.

2. They reduce energy costs. High performance window films can reduce up to 85% of the suns solar radiation (heat) coming into a space. This drastically reduces the load on air conditioning systems in turn reducing energy consumption, and cost.

3. Window Tinting is a practical investment. When compared to custom windows, blinds and drapery, window film is far more affordable. No need for custom designs and the raw materials are much cheaper. Window film also doesn't go out of style so no need to worry about out-dated windows.

4. They remove heat and dangerous UV radiation. Window film can block over 99% of the suns harmful UV radiation, a leading cause of skin cancer. UV also plays a big part in fading. Window film can help protect your flooring, carpet, furnishings and artwork.

5. They make your home/business more comfortable. Not only does window film block up to 85% of the heat and over 99% of the suns UV radiation, It also reduces the glare. This alleviates eye strain and improves views as well inside(think about the glare on your TV) as well as outside. Window film keeps you cool and comfortable inside while allowing you to keep the view without closing off your windows.

6. Window Films have great warranties. Your drapes, curtains and blinds probably don't. Window films have warranties from 10 years - lifetime warranties which cover fading, peeling, bubbling, crazing and demetalizing.

7. They are decorative and can be easily updated. There are hundreds of stock decorative window films as well as custom cut designs available. From cut glass designs, to stained glass replicas and textured window films, there is a design for everyone. Window Film can now also be printed on which opens up design ideas and makes the possibilities endless.

8. They offer safety and security. Your windows are some of your most vulnerable points. With a high performance safety and security window tinting you can protect from glass related threats all while reaping the benefits of energy conservation and UV reduction.

9. They offer great daytime privacy. Window film allows you to enjoy the natural light of the day and maintain your view while providing daytime privacy from your nosy neighbors!

10. They are safe for kids and pets. Window films are non-toxic and are typically applied with only water and soap. No need to evacuate the house during an installation and there is no smell or fumes involved.


These are just 10 things you probably didn't know. In addition to the above, most power companies now offer rebates when you have a qualifying window film installed in your home or business. Get paid and save money!

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