"Winter Mode" on Windows: How Much Can You Save on Heating Using This Trick?

As cold weather approaches, many people are reactivating the famous "winter mode" for their windows. But do you know what this energy-saving trick actually involves?

Winter is coming, and with it, the dreaded heating bills. Some people claim that setting their windows to winter mode is the secret to staying warm without overspending. This adjustment supposedly improves insulation, but what's really behind this so-called miraculous setting? Does it actually work, or is it just an urban myth?

Contrary to what its name suggests, "winter mode" isn't a button that activates a specific setting. This misleading term refers to a simple adjustment of the pressure exerted on the seals of your windows. On the side of your windows, you'll find small cylinders or "rollers" that adjust the compression between the sash (the moving part of the window) and the fixed frame. By turning these rollers, you can modify the pressure on the seals, tightening them to improve the window's airtightness.

However, this adjustment is not seasonal at all. It's designed to be made permanently when the window is installed or in case of malfunction. So, the idea of a winter mode that you activate every year is more of a myth than a technical reality. You might be tempted to tighten these rollers to maximize insulation, but that's not a good idea. Over-tightening the seals can have some negative consequences.

Firstly, highly compressed seals wear out faster, meaning you'll have to replace them sooner. Secondly, over-tightening can make it harder to open and close the window properly. Lastly, it can warp the window frame, leading to costly repairs.

Since this so-called winter mode isn't advisable, there are other, more effective ways to save on heating. For instance, check the condition of your window seals and rubbers to ensure they aren't loose or detached. You can also apply insulating tape to the window frames in areas where cold air seeps in the most, and remove it when temperatures rise again.

Additionally, you might consider upgrading to double-glazed windows if you haven't already. These windows provide better insulation, reducing heat loss and helping you maintain a comfortable indoor temperature while cutting down on energy costs.