Plastic Over Your Windows--How Much Can You Save...Really??

[@jennyyoung5997]

You just saved me 7 years of research. Thanks for this!

[@SpiritofaHandyman]

You are so welcome!

[@timothytravis5276]

Let me recommend something. I grew up in por family. You save more with thicker plastic. And it's cheaper than the kits. Use 4 mil clear plastic from you hardware store... it adds bit more pertection.

[@debateptx1651]

@@timothytravis5276 I went out to target tonight and bought two clear shower curtains (one for $3 & a thicker one for $6) & cut them to size. Seems MUCH thicker than the saran wrap I keep seeing in these vids and still entirely transparent

[@captainscentsible1811]

@@debateptx1651 how did you get them to stick to the window ? Curious. Ty

[@trenchantsometimes5149]

I've been using the plastic window film (inside one) for many years and I haven't been overly concerned about how much it can save us, although of course we all do care about that, but I would use it regardless of how little it saved us. It stops those drafts you feel especially on cold winter nights. We feel more comfortable, warmer, cozier. There is definitely a difference.

[@rayzor285]

Comfort is worth something for sure

[@tomjohnston3601]

Exactly what I was thinking. I feel fewer drafts with it up. That makes my daytime temp of 63 degrees tolerable. Also, I bought foam inserts for behind the outlets on external walls to reduce air leakage there. The foam inserts are nice because they are hidden from view, effectively they last forever, and they are extremely cheap.

[@larsonfamilyhouse]

I sit by a glass door and it makes a HUGE difference on that. I’m currently just using a trash bag so it wasn’t more than a dollar or two including the tape. I have cats so I needed something I can easily replace often lol and no one really sees this door much anyway so I’m not particularly concerned with how it looks. I took just the bottom half off one night so I could see outside and kind of forgot about it and practically froze the next night it was so cold lol I like to be toasty so it made a big difference!

[@larsonfamilyhouse]

What outlets? @@tomjohnston3601

[@martinmoffitt4702]

YOU SAID THE MAGIC WORD! "COMFORT"

[@kansascityshuffle8526]

Without even watching the video I can say plastic cover on old winters is worth it. Our cottage widows are ancient and without plastic coating the windows our wood stove at full blast won’t allow a person to sleep in either of the bedrooms due to the prevailing north winds the cut right through the spaces between the panes. With the plastic in place we burn easily half the wood to keep the cottage comfortable.

[@marydelaney840]

Buy your window film after the winter season, it is always on clearance, saving you even more $$.

[@nickwilliams1065]

I have always used the plastic sheets you buy as dust covers when painting, taped in place then stretched tight with a hot air gun, hair dryer if its settings allow, sheets cost a fraction of the packaged ones and are huge so can be even left doubled to make them thicker.

[@jamilgotcher5456]

I'm going to do that, great idea. Same goes for Christmas decor.

[@zone4garlicfarm]

Using the plastic does more than save money. It makes the house more comfortable by reducing drafts.

[@cjzanders5430]

Plastic insulation’s main use is to keep the warm air in. Heat flowing and plastic’s heat resistance is the crux of what keeps the house warm. In turn, the effect of this is that less energy is used on heating the dwelling and money is saved as a result.

[@Digitalhunny]

@@cjzanders5430 - You _know_ you're _both_ right, right? 🤣

[@cjzanders5430]

@@Digitalhunny - you’re about a year late, but to state the obvious, yes.

[@Digitalhunny]

@@cjzanders5430 - 😬 Sorry bout that! Didn't even notice the date, my bad. Thanks for replying all the same. 🤗🇨🇦

[@greylynnjr]

@Nicholas Cashmore says the person who presumes that giving an impression of less desperate person makes him more of a human than others

[@KMC597]

Also- if you FEEL warmer- that’s important too!

[@danfli3669]

That savings came from covering only two windows. Do the whole house.

[@Carl_Jr]

Double hung windows does not mean 2 windows. Double hung means the top and bottom slide up and down and be tilted in or out. Watch the video again. @ 0:38 there are two boxes. A 2 pak and 9 pak. Granted, that wouldn't even cover 1/3 of the windows in my house, but it's still a lot more than just 2 windows. 🤷 Even one of the shots he took shows a group of 3 windows.

[@ecoomber]

Honestly, even it came out to be equal (cost of materials being equal to the savings) it would still be worth it for the added comfort.

[@ILuvAyeAye]

I know! I can't imagine wondering if it works - I don't do it to save money (I don't pay for heating in my apartment), I do it so I can comfortably walk around my home without gloves!

[@ibrun5151]

Totally understand! That's why I always did it, to stop the cold drafts, and it works!

[@RuthCuadrado]

ecoomber Hey I live in Florida so have bo idea what u are saying but i’m curious. How does the plastic make the house more comfortable?

[@ecoomber]

@@RuthCuadrado The plastic stops cold air from blowing in through very small gaps around the windows. The supplies can be very expensive, so you might not even save enough on your heating bill to cover the cost. If you have older windows it can be really bad if you have a lot of wind. I live in a 1960s apartment tower on the 10th floor and I have nothing to block the wind so it's particularly bad.

[@CliftonPhotographer]

We did this while living is a place with a heater that had to stay on almost constantly to keep us from freezing and yeah this was significant to improving our quality of life for winter!! It can take some practice, but you can get that plastic pretty tight so you can barely see the plastic if at all on the windows.

[@liannelessard3609]

You'll love this story...one winter I used the window plastic and my bill went from $139/mo to $55/mo...the next winter I decided to forgo it and it went from $55 to $122/mo INSANE!

[@liannelessard3609]

Even more details...I did plastic again (because obviously it works) and it went from $122/mo to $63 !!! Yay!

[@chrisbeyer4432]

@@liannelessard3609 Those are incredible savings! I think a big part of it is how old are the windows, are your windows actually drafty, or has the gas between the panes lost its touch. For me, I'm just learning about the stuff, and I'm super excited about it. I heat my home with a wood stove and I try to use as little of my electric heat as possible, however, I have a sun porch without heat, and I keep it closed off from the rest of the house. I'd love to use it in the winter time still, but it's just way too cold out there, it has 14 non insulated and non sealed storm windows, when the wind blows you can feel it in that room. I'm sealing all of the windows and I will open the door to it and see if I can get it to hold any heat at all. Very exciting!

[@stevejackson9952]

I have oil and live in northern Maine. I'm trying everything I can this year. Just watched a video about making a PVC frame wrapped in plastic to go in your window for winter. Think I might try that this year,.

[@Tdot6]

@@stevejackson9952 I used the cheap clear plastic dining table protector from the dollar store. Cut it into size and put it up using white masking tape or painters tape. It minimizes the drafty windows and makes my home more comfortable. Since the plastic is thicker it does not rip or stretch so I can reuse it every year. It does not look as good, but I rather save more money and be comfortable.

[@billymacktexasdetective5827]

Cool story, Hansel!

[@B0D33]

Turning your heat to 59 at night will save you hardly any energy if any at all. When the house cools at night and then you turn your thermostat up to 67, you use the same Amy if not more energy to get the house back up to that temperature.

[@davidrajecki]

The cost of fuel is not the only factor. Two big ones are less wear on your HVAC and more comfortable/well regulated room temperatures. Other than the aesthetic, it is a pretty big win in my opinion.

[@drew1595]

What you really need to do is around your window frame, put velcro. Then get a nice thick clear vinyl about 10mm thick and put the other side of the velcro on it. Every winter you can just slap it on and slap it off when you have guests

[@tiyamika.yawawa1205]

Nice

[@kellyreilly7782]

Great idea, didn't think about that!

[@taritielke4176]

You can incorporate that system into a roman blind, pretty on the outside with quilting/batting etc facing the window and attach using velco or magnets (if memory serves me). There used to be patterns for this in the sewing/material store though I suspect you can find a pattern or instructions on line. They look very attractive and you can still put long insulated drapes along each side to complete the look or extra protection.

[@marklittler784]

Yeah or use magnets.

[@davidhowell5578]

@@marklittler784 exactly, much better to use magnet strips and use Acrylic instead of Vinyl

[@joeylayman6622]

The plastic helps if you have single pain windows. I lived in a trailer park and my mom use to use that stuff on our windows.

[@gingerbaker1]

It's not the R - value that is important. It's the cold air flow it is preventing that makes the difference. 🙌

[@noname-by3qz]

Robert Lambert ... How ?

[@gingerbaker1]

@@noname-by3qz Heat conduction - R value - is the heat transfer through the plastic membrane. Or through insulation, or the wood of your house. Convection - which the main benefit of the plastic is a different type of heat transfer - convection. In other words, cold air coming in and cooling the house. That is what the plastic stops - all the cold air coming in from the many gaps in our window frames.

[@louf7178]

@@gingerbaker1 It is also the airspace that gives insulation. It can vary from ~1/2 to 1 R per inch, but the big thing is that must be "sealed". This is how the claims of up to 90% increase come about. But, yes, if the windows are leaky, stopping the infiltration is a big improvement.

[@RustyWalker]

It's called radiant cold. At night, cold air falls down the window glass and rolls along the floor, making your feet and ankles get colder than the rest of you and decreasing your comfort. Preventing that cold air rushing down to the floor preserves your comfort and doesn't have you reaching for the thermostat.

[@louf7178]

@@RustyWalker That's convective mode of heat transfer. Radiation is a whole separate mode.

[@mapleacer9925]

I've recently put a secondary glazing film on my window as the condensation in the morning is ridiculous, my room tends to be cold and uncomfortable. The difference is incredible, when I got up at 6.30 no condensation, the room was 17.5 much warmer than the rest of the house.

[@tenthdimension9836]

I'd suggest finding out why you have so much condensation? Are you over humidifying the house? Get a humidistat and check. To much humidity will cause problems with the finish on the window trim i.e. mold and rot.

[@bbygrlpt2]

@@tenthdimension9836 My windows are the same especially when its really cold.. Maybe bc the radiator is below the windows??

[@ginwilcox9555]

I did a very similar test on my home. After giving consideration to temperatures and lengths of cold months; my result was just over $185. Savings for a year. Likewise for rooms that are not used in the summer months, I leave the plastic up, it saves on coolings costs by $113. in a summer. So yeah, it pays for its self.

[@SpiritofaHandyman]

well done!

[@theamazingbiff]

Personally I prefer insulating curtains. To each their own! I also hang nice antique quilts up on all my outside walls and that also makes a huge difference.

[@randomvideosn0where]

Watch out for condensation.

[@aprilm9551]

But with curtains over the windows during the day, the rooms would be dark. At night, great, but I need all the light from the sun in the winter, otherwise it is too depressing inside.

[@changeyourenergy708]

​@aprilm9551 some people like to sit in the dark. Not sure why. To most of us, that's depressing.

[@Aeroldoth3]

@@changeyourenergy708 We may live in bad neighborhoods, belong to a persecuted minority, live near ugly surroundings, like to be naked and or masturbate/sex in our rooms, or just be private people. There are also people who work nights and sleep days. There are plenty of reasons people might want dark or opaque windows. In fact, with the advent of drones and better spying devices being so common, blocking windows becomes even more desireable.

[@changeyourenergy708]

@Aeroldoth3 i agree...all of that is true. And even I want the curtains drawn closed for some of those reasons. But I'm still gonna need them open most of the time, or it gets gloomy. Also, you need daylight for health reasons.

[@timyanke9559]

I live in a cold climate, and had poor windows. It's a no brainer use plastic on your windows. We see temps of -30 dec to feb

[@mlaforce]

@M Detlef Why you calling Tim a Dumbass? You have a problem? Why don't you try being more respectful dipshit. The End.

[@Mote78]

M Detlef No need using foul language. That’s a sign of immaturity and crudeness which reflects badly on you fella.

[@timyanke9559]

It makes a lot of sense to seal the window. The best way to achieve a air tight seal without caulking the windows shut permanently is to use plastic, a simple and effective way to improve energy efficiency

[@codybear4you]

M Detlef you really are a troll with nothing better to do then use crude language to make Yourself feel better when all it does is show what little respect you have.

[@calamityjane6653]

I know that it doesn't look real pretty but after my grandparents covering all the windows in the winter my whole life I'm a believer. It's never bothered me to have the windows covered and I never froze (lived in the mountains all my life). It's not pretty like I said but it has saved all of us money we could use in other places. I still do this and have been thankful that I was taught at a young age how to save money and stay comfortable in the process.

[@shirleysmith2734]

I rented a house years ago that had extremely drafty windows. The plastic not only helped greatly on heating and cooling costs but it was much more cozy. No draft in the baby’s room

[@mwinvictus9672]

Just moved to a new house in Alaska that has outdated wooden-framed, single-paned windows. As of, October 11th, we just got our first snow and it's dipping down into the low 20's at night, so, I'm scrambling to winterize. Thanks for taking the time to post your results.

[@SpiritofaHandyman]

You got this!

[@scott6588]

Old farm house in Wisconsin here with addition that was placed around half the home... meaning the addition is separate from the foundation, so weather gets under it similar to a manufactured home. If we don't do the windows with plastic then we will use an additional tank of propane a season. At an average cost of about $2.50 a gallon and a 80% fill, that's $1,000 additional cost in fuel. Also the furnace simply doesn't shut off as it's constantly struggling to reach 68 degrees, so the electric bill is an additional $150 from that running,(extra $75 with plastic) and you need space heaters for cold spots, so there's another $100. So without using plastic, it's probably more like an additional $1,800 here, aside from constantly being uncomfortable. So yes the extra time to do the windows is mandatory. We look for the kits in spring when stores clear them out for a couple bucks a pack and buy 6 boxes.

[@robertmontgomery7158]

The plastic stops the air leak . Worth every penny in comfort

[@amumof2347]

From the Northeast here; Massachusetts. The BEST thing I ever did was opt for a MassSave assessment. They insulated my walls and attic. In previous seasons to feel mildly comfortable we had to keep thermostats set to 71-72°. This season, 65°. Significant difference.

[@christiner3948]

I have 130yr old drafty wood windows. Plastic makes a HUGE difference and definitely a NEED. This guy is discussing new windows. My 1st winter, heat bills were over $1200/month here...last year they were in the $400s.

[@uK8cvPAq]

I use this stuff to prevent condensation and it seems to work, my windows used to look like niagra falls. Sure it looks a bit unsightly but it's a small price to pay for reducing damp.

[@paulmoffat9306]

Same thing in my house - previous owner had not used it, and had no control on the humidity. The drywall under EVERY window in the house was rotted and mildewy from the water. Cost a lot of time to repair. Once I started covering for winter, no more problems.

[@kandacepatterson7965]

Do you use bubble wrap? Or just the window film? My windows are like a water fall.

[@uK8cvPAq]

@@kandacepatterson7965 Just window film.

[@cbass2755]

I just read a guy said to roll up a newspaper the length of the window. When condensation builds up, the paper will absorb it. And on a nice sunny day, the paper dries out. No mold or mildew! I thought it was genius…..

[@smileychess]

@@cbass2755 Interesting idea. Now I just need to go find newspaper. Haven't had one around since I was a kid.

[@josephsylwestrzak8037]

LOL save money hell when I was a kid we lived in a shack and were poor without plastic we might not have survived

[@BrettonFerguson]

Yeah this guy has $1000 windows with triple pane and argon gas between them. Of course a sheet of plastic is not going to affect his bill much. He should try the same experiment on an old house with single pane wooden windows. I guarantee plastic helps on older windows. If you feel a cool breeze standing by your window, plastic will help.

[@Digitalhunny]

Did you have to walk to school barefoot in the snow, for 5 miles each way too? 🤣 Just poking a little fun. Somebody's gotta do it, right? 🤗🇨🇦

[@opinionatedpolicyjunkie]

Yes! I remember doing this as a kid in cold climate. Now in TX in this energy nightmare and immediately thought of this.

[@TheSilverGate]

I think that an additional point for the plastic is that it prevents drafts of arctic air, when your office is in front of one of those evil windows I'd say that the plastic is totally worth it

[@ILuvAyeAye]

If you are sensitive to dry air in the winter, I've also found window film makes a big difference at how effective my humidifier is. I will take the uglier windows over painful cracked skin (and a perpetually stuffy nose) any day.

[@larsonfamilyhouse]

Also making the air more humid makes it feel MUCH warmer!

[@wadenyoost1796]

NOTE: You can re-use the plastic year after year, whether you rent or own. AND you can use bubble wrap on the windows first, then cover the entire window unit with your plastic. No need to use tape with the bubble wrap, just spritz the windows with a little water, then place the bubble wrap to the glass. Every little bit helps. As you are saving the plastic and bubble wrap year after year, your costs are further reduced.

[@Starcrunch72]

Absolutely! I do the same process in my rental unit. Bubble Wrap on the window panes, and 5 mil plastic, folded over giving 10 mil plastic thickness, and painter taped to the wall around the window. It immediately cuts the draft and my furnace does not run constantly. Thermostat set at 69 F., Brick town home apartment building, Original horizontal slider windows from 1966...It works for me--just can't do anything about the cold radiating through the brick wall itself.

[@angellas.1314]

@@Starcrunch72 Hang heavy duty velvet curtains or the like from BBB.

[@markjgaletti57]

I'll lived 2yrs full-time in a 1983 bluebird wanderlodge motorhome I used 1/4" bubble wrapped on all the windows and external vents went from to space heaters to only using one so yeah it's worth it

[@krispyn2dc]

Yes, you can save some money depending on your exact scenario but if you sleep next to or hang out my drafty windows, it makes a big comfort difference.

[@enjoyed_lemon]

I just found this. My utility bills are $700 a month for heating my 3000 sq ft house. I live in central Canada and we get to -60F easily and winter is 7-8 months a year and much colder then anything you get. My entire south side of my house is windows. I’m hoping this will help me save thousands over winter this year. And that’s just to keep my house at 68F btw.

[@SpiritofaHandyman]

Please keep me posted! I would love to hear your results!!

[@enjoyed_lemon]

Chris Michalkow so far I did this to my north facing windows along with bubble wrap on the glass and it’s made a very big difference. No draft anymore and so far noticed I’m only using 2600kwh now instead of around 4000 a month. I’ll keep posted as the coldest months approach here in Manitoba.

[@antoniop9461]

@@enjoyed_lemon did using the plastic lower your monthly bills?

[@davidwillkie]

@@antoniop9461 yes I have dual heating electric furnace and wood stove , but I noticed major temp difference from previous years. Temps were way warmer and my power bill dropped from 650 a month down to 250-300 Canadian a month. As I mentioned room's previously that were cold feeling now feel warm and cozy. I keep my house around 26c too.

[@907kat]

If you live in Canada or Alaska it’s worth it to invest in triple pane windows. We live in Alaska and besides being subzero half the year, heating costs are quite high. Insulated windows pay for themselves in 2-3 years.

[@dawngosse667]

Really depends on how good a job you do too. Especially if you have an older house. But most of all im more concerned with comfort of the house and reducing cold drafts and not having frosty windows

[@josefernandez2722]

What is not mentioned is the comfort aspect. I do not like to feel cold,and when your windows are not efficient, even when the heat turns on, it doesn't last as long, and thus you are cold.

[@merryhoppes4246]

I live in Nebraska and in the winter it is usually windy. I put plastic on all of my windows. You can really tell which direction that the wind is out of because the plastic blows out into the room 6"- 12!" I do not like drafts. This year I am going to use the small bubble wrap over the glass, first, then put the plastic over that! It make a huge difference!

[@everything2872]

59? Wtf my wife would probably try and kill me if I had it at that tempetire

[@crj198]

@@greatdanerescuemom1 In texas our winters are pretty cheap. The summers kill us. Depending on the region of texas you are in and the electricity providers you can choose power from the summer bill can ranger from $250 to $500. this past summer in one city near by some people had power bills over $700. This is for around 2000-3000 kwhs. I keep a close eye on things around here so my highest was $275 for 2600kwhs. I really think as a nation we should get together and discuss the prices of utilities (internet and phone included) , food, gas and mortgages vs what the majority of people are Actually making on average in that area. Having a clearer picture of this could help use all get more fair prices on the things we need. There is an unreasonable amount of variance in price of things. In one cooking group im in for ex, we'v seen milk can be as low as 89 cents a gallon in some places and $4 a gallon in others.

[@greatdanerescuemom1]

@@crj198 oh yes summer here its an average of 450-500 a month because of the a/c .we used to have electric heat, and paid out the nose and froze, thats why we got the wood stove, with a back up of lp gas furnace. my grandsons room is the coldest so he has a space heater. but its insanly crazy how much it costs to heat and cool a small rancher. 1500 sq feet. we get charged more to supply it to my home then actual useage. we might use 150 in elect and pay 250 to the supply co who supplies it. its a total racket... and you cant find milk-non organic which i would never buy- under 2.99 a gallon her but i only buy organic. and that is from 5.99 - 7.99 a gallon. blessings. in Pa you can buy raw grass fed organic milk from the amish -which i wont buy from- for 7.99 a gallon as well...or 10 gallons at a time for 7.50 each. in nj its illegal to buy raw milk. you can use those numbers in your group if youd like.... :)

[@greatdanerescuemom1]

@M Detlef um guess what it IS sold by the gallon when you have a 300 gallon tank. its LP gas how are they gonna weight it - now whos the dumb ass.......Obviously we can't weigh large containers at homes or remove the tank in a vehicle. These tanks have a bleeder valve with a tube on it that reaches to the 80% full level of the container. We open the bleeder and pump propane, metered in gallons, until we see liquid coming out of that bleeder valve and that's when we stop filling here you go idiot......

[@chantaltherien1682]

@@greatdanerescuemom1 excellent reply!

[@codybear4you]

M Detlef why do you need to be so rude with the language ? Immature and disgusting.

[@adamsirvinskas9251]

Amazing video. Love your thorough systematic approach. You asked if it’s worth your time. I think it is, especially if you do it with a family member/roommate. It’s bonding time, and you get the feeling of satisfaction. And skill building and getting faster each time you do it. Without doing researching into fossil fuels required to make the shrink wrap, I would guess it is also environmentally worth. The plastic requires oil extraction to make, but I would guess the heating saved would yield more fossil fuel savings overall.

[@noradorris9631]

I live in an apartment. The windows let in a lot of cold even though they're new. When I put plastic over the windows, it actually billows out into the room so I KNOW it's working. Also I make them extra large, not just the windows but the frame as well and secure it with clear packing tape. It works to keep out the cold, lowers my bill and makes the apartment more comfortable. And frankly I don't care how it looks. I'll trade pretty for all the benefits any day.

[@ILuvAyeAye]

Is the tape on a painted surface? When packing tape is removed, it tends to really mess up the paint underneath it. Window film tape can pull off paint too, but typically only if the paint is already peeling, and the damage is a lot less noticeable. If the packing tape is only touching aluminum window frames, then of course you don't need to worry about peeling paint, but it might leave a lot of really sticky residue that is difficult to remove. If the tape does damage the apartment, your landlord could make you pay for it. You might save a lot of money in the long run if you switch out the packing tape for a window film kit. The packing tape will come up much easier today than it will in the spring! Unfortunately, I'm speaking from experience - I've had to remove a lot of tape from many surfaces, with varying degrees of success. Whenever you try to remove the tape, a hairdryer might help.

[@noradorris9631]

ILuvAyeAye, the wall is painted. I painted it golden rod yellow thirteen years ago. It's semi gloss and handles the tape well. I've lived here since 2006 and done the same thing almost every year. My landlord is very happy with this tennant.

[@ilovelucythegoldengirls7328]

You can find these window kits at the Dollar Tree also. 🙂

[@TrolleyTroubles10527]

That was a really good analysis! Bravo, you almost lost me at the comparison but then when you took the deep dive I was impressed! Stay warm!

[@grassroot011]

stopping air infiltration is the best it can do, and that is good enough. When you notice the drapes moving on a windy day, cutting that out is the thing.

[@charlesharper2357]

No, the plastic produces an air gap...the air gap reduces heat transmission through the glass.

[@Bluelady4848]

All I know is the window next to my computer desk gets very cold without the plastic. I need a sweater or sweatshirt to sit there for long periods...And still get cold. WITH plastic I don't get cold at all. So, I go with how I FEEL, Not my heating bill. Although in winter, any little bit of savings helps.

[@gaagmtk]

Its not a significant amount, but think of all the energy saved if everyone did it. Its like leaving the water on while brushing your teeth

[@mingzhu8093]

Think of the pollution bit created to produce and trash the plastic before and after if all home use it.

[@billsherman6129]

It would be useful to use the measurement of "heating degree days" in your comparisons. These would be available online. Also, old windows (and the gap between the window unit and the rough opening) can allow air infiltration/exfiltration. This is made worse by windy weather. Air leakage may also be impacted by closing of interior doors.

[@larsonfamilyhouse]

All gas companies show different measurements. Our does not include “heating degree days”

[@mortallychallenged1436]

I live in an apartment with limited heating. Which means if it is to cold for me, I can t turn up for more heat. The only option I have is reducing the heat loss. And that is where this foil helps. I combine it with bubble wrap and reflective (aluminium/silver)covers for windows and the door. And of course check if all door and window seals are tight.

[@wizard3z868]

try finding a ceremic infrared heter i bought 3 from wally world black friday 4 and 5 yrs ago they work great paid $40 each 1 st yr had agian 2nd yr grabed 2 of them them keep temp on em at 74 costs me like $12 a month for all three 1500watts run like 10+hrs a day plus plastic on windows

[@stevepettersen3283]

Ask the landlord to do some insulating, if no luck do it yourself. One of my bathroom vent flaps are stuck open (4th floor) and let cold air back in. Until it gets fixed I've put masking tape over the fan cover. When I actually need to vent the room I just pull it down a couple of inches, when done push it back up. There's lots of little things that can help keep you warmer. Electric blanket, heating pad, etc. Good luck!

[@MAGAMAN]

Get a better job and get a better house.

[@pedroSilesia]

I checked temperature in my house big windows, well insulated, autumn period, new built. 5 degrees differences when thermometer put next to the window behind the blinds and thermometer placed in the room. Only blinds that suppose to only cover the window provides you some insulation. It is a no brainer that further insulation will give you better results.

[@SpiritofaHandyman]

Thanks for that additional research!

[@laurahughes1987]

I have double glazing everywhere except my kitchen which is so cold and draughty, I plastic film the 2 big windows and the small loo and the difference is amazing, I also have a curtain at front and back door and the money monthly is so amazingly Lower! Well worth the time and effort in my opinion. Thanks for the informative video too ! I’m in the UK 😊

[@robynguinn8941]

I use bubblewrap. If it is below zero in your zone, just spritz water on the glass and press the bubblewrap onto the glass, the water will freeze it to the glass where it will stay all winter. Where I live it doesn't freeze so I spray sugar water to make it stick and it makes a huge difference to the windows I use it on. The bubble side goes against the glass.

[@maketaco6683]

added big benefit, the nation (US or Canada or other) will consume so much less energy, meaning MORE supply, meaning even LOWER costs per unit and less pollution. Efficient insulation can SAVE THE WORLD.

[@saravis56]

I have lived in rentals where it wasn’t as much an attempt at saving money, as just trying to stay a little warm. Did it with no kit; just plastic, staples, and cardboard strips.

[@outsidedog59]

Same!

[@tomn5880]

First, Double hung windows leak a lot of therms. We had them in the first build and we switched to crank outs in the rebuild. (Tornado took the old house. Rebuilt same foot print) The crank outs are two glass sheets with faux mullions between. We have infloor hydronic heat and a 15,000 KW boiler. 1,315 sq ft home with 676 sq ft heated garage. We have not hit over $600.00 cost per heating season yet. Additionally we have R-50 blown cellulose in the ceiling and 5 inch bats in the walls.

[@kandacepatterson7965]

I would have a stroke if I got that high of a bill!😳

[@BudgetMadam]

You can RE-USE the plastic year after year; especially if you use bubble wrap 👍🏾

[@pkquick2009]

Budget Madam - Is Bubble Wrap any good for sound insulation ?

[@BudgetMadam]

Pk Quick I’m not certain because I live on a cul de sac & we do not have a lot of traffic noise

[@ny8997]

Only thing with bubble wrap it can leave marks on your window in the shape of the bubbles you may have to scrape off with a razor when you take them down

[@theusconstitution1776]

Google the degree day system and look at how many degree days were used in that specific time frame this year! And then go and try to find your your propane company will be able to help you find a degree days used last winter in the same. And if they’re good they might be able to take you back a second winter but that’s the only way you’ll be able to tell is by the degree days! Now I’m putting plastic on my windows I think it can save me some money and more importantly make you more comfortable in your home!!

[@kt209]

I tried the bubble plastic, it makes a difference (not huge) but even more ugly than this. Then I saw someone talking about doing this but using clear shower curtains from Dollar Tree and velcro to make it reusable, I feel the difference. I used a paper shade on our bedroom from walmart to avoid sunlight since my husband worked midnights... After 2 years I noticed it was the shade that helped keep our bedroom ridiculously warmer than the rest of the house. Probably 10-15 degrees warmer. Needless to say, I am putting it in the whole house this week. The best thing is the price, $4 and I use it all year long. Helps keep the room cool during summer (I close them when the sun is shining through) and warm during winter (I open them when the sun is shining through). Well worth it since I will have them up almost 3 years now :D re: you keep the house at 67 and 59 at night. I keep it at 67, then 70 for 2 hours and then 62 at night. My husband is always complaining lol. When I go to the bathroom at night, it's sooo cold. ugh

[@Aeroldoth3]

Can you elaborate on what you did? Did you ONLY have the paper shade in your bedroom, or was it shade + bubble wrap + clear shower curtain? I always used plastic shrink, but it leaves an ugly strip around the edge. I'm renting now and only just learned about bubble wrap, while looking for non-damaging solutions. If the paper shade is as good as you say, maybe I'll try that. Have you had to remove it, does it leave residue behind?

[@almierz4604]

Menards has 10' x 100' 4mil clear plastic for $20.00 A roll. That should last you a while !

[@jimsobanski9036]

The comfort difference is immediate. Use it every year 3M only though.

[@jimsobanski9036]

@Ride the Wave Umm... I will surely take that into consideration.

[@Meanoldwoman2013]

@Obelus Problem is if you live in an apartment with SINGLE PANE windows. Slumlord does not want to put new ones in. Glad this is my last winter here.

[@elsieallen7113]

Caulking around every nook & crannie & seams the right way is the way to stop air & bugs from coming in, and most people don't do it right you have to take your finger & push it & smooth it into the cracks & the area has to be clean the day before calking the area your applying to should be warm & dry , & clean outside like on a sunny day with at least 4 to 5 hours before evening moisture & with no chance of rain for at least 24 hrs.

[@michaelbaker9746]

DONT AGREE THANK YOU

[@MrBrianDuga]

I think it would make sense to do 2 blower door tests with plastic and without. Then there's no comparison needed in outdoor temps, price of fuel, etc

[@johnburns2940]

Don't forget, the room will be warmer, more comfortable. That should count for the effort.

[@dminard1]

I see a lot of people who have plastic over their windows that has wrinkles in it. You need to use a hairdrier to shrink the plastic until it has no wrinkles. The value of plastic is that it creates a layer of still air directly above the plastic. Without shrinking the plastic you lose most of it benifits.

[@walkinglive9080]

can you explain? you put the plastic over the window with water, and then use your hairdryer?

[@dminard1]

@@walkinglive9080 no I'm talking about the plastic sheets where you tape around your window frame and then put the plastic sheets over the window openings and shrink them. If you don't shrink it till it's smooth then you don't creat an air barrier and it isn't effective. I think what you are talking about is the bubble wrap stuck directly to the class with water. In that case the bubbles themselves are the air barrier

[@TheJhnnybgd]

So I just watch this and we live in the high mountains of AZ. Last year it was COLD. I bought greenhouse plastic and built frames for all the windows total cost not including time about $300.00 but I can take them down and store them for the next year. We spent over 1500 last year in propane alone. So far this year our propane furnace hasn’t come on but maybe half a dozen times. We also though had a pellet stove installed to subsidize the heat. All-in-All it will take about 3 years to recover costs but our month to month now CHEAP.

[@ValisFan3]

I just put up plastic on the window next to me in my bedroom. And I already feel it working. My room is now more comfortable. It is worth it. It will allow me to leave the curtains open, so I can get more sunlight in the morning.

[@ajlifesolutions7072]

I insulated my huge single pane windows in an apartment using cling film and cracked open the district heating line so low it didn’t even turn the flowmeter! I had free heating all throughout the flat for years! 😉 Saved me hundreds of dollars!

[@alfredsilver8566]

No doubt the plastic helps. When I’m installing it before I close the last corner you can feel the cold air rushing in.

[@armadillotoe]

You didn't show us the "ugly" plastic. If you have curtains or drapes it would be almost unnoticeable. I love your windows, but the plastic would be much more noticeable on your windows than most. If you have old windows with bad glazing the plastic will save you much more than if you have minor leakage.

[@doveoo5]

I"m going to do the plastic on my kitchen windows this weekend. I will use painters tape to secure it. Painters tape comes off more easily than the stuff that comes with the kit. My two large kitchen windows are south facing and have the best light for my spinach, peppers, and herbs. I also use caulking cord around the frames of the windows. Works a treat.

[@Mote78]

doveoo5 I use that calling cord too. Works well and easy to apply, easy to remove.

[@cathyvincent3510]

Make a frame for each window put plastic on it once and put it in each year. Replace plastic as needed. My mom did this growing up and it worked well. Takes very little time and works year after year. Yes you have to store them but you don't use up your time each year putting up the plastic or your money by constantly buying the plastic. Pretty economical.

[@angellas.1314]

I’m planning on doing this with plexiglass glass cut at the home store. And line the frame with some foam also.

[@kgraham5820]

I knew it saved money but not that much... And "they’ve" already said the cost of heating this season is gonna be expensive! So it seems worth it to me. and if a person has drafty windows, of course plastic helps with that problem. Thank you for sharing your experiences... you’re a scholar and a gentleman.

[@RustyWalker]

Making slot ins would mean you could reuse these and store them in your attic when it warms up. It only takes some simple timber and an air exclusion brush along the edge, then stapling the plastic to the frame. Across my patio door, I've made a simple bi-fold insulated screen door, with lightweight wood battens for the framing, using foil backed bubble wrap, and curtain material to make it look nicer, and attached it to the door recess with light duty hinges. For fire safety, the material should be fire retardant. Plenty of mods could be made to that simple idea.

[@melindarathke851]

I’d love to see pictures of a few examples!

[@marklittler784]

You can get draughts through electric sockets, light fittings, light switches and cold air to insulation through ever so small cracks outside around the edges of window frames and door frames.

[@HOTRAILProductions]

I just began sealing my windows with plastic and bubble wrap. Already I can feel the difference.

[@beerbandit291]

If you use a credit card to buy the film you could say that the plastic paid for itself.

[@SpiritofaHandyman]

#winning at #dadjokes

[@alexcordero6672]

Depends on your skills and patience. The plastic on our windows is practically invisible! We cover the uncut, plastic leftover with Xmas decorations. Keep a nice, lacey curtain and you won't even know it's there. The only hassle we've had is with our cat who will rip one or two. It's no problem, we just put up another one. Furthermore, it's only $30 for 10 windows--I think that's kind of amazing.

[@brianbailey462]

is there a large roll of the plastic film available?

[@apriledleblute6261]

I live in an old house, been here five years now. This first year I spent $450.00 a month on oil, per my plan in two years I got it down to $150.00 a month just by sealing any cracks with spray foam and putting plastic on my windows! 😊 so for my it is worth it, although I do hate not being able to see out....😒

[@SpiritofaHandyman]

Impressive! Thanks for sharing those numbers!

[@Mothershipmaher]

I like to put bubble wrap on my windows before putting the film on! Definitely looks weird but helps a heap!

[@MSKPELLEGRINO]

Buy clear shower curtains. You can see out just fine. They are thick enough to reuse each year. Buy clear duck tape to seal them. I've used the same plastic for 6 years now. I much prefer being able to look out windows. I got my clear curtains at the Dollar store.

[@MSKPELLEGRINO]

@Ride the Wave I also like the holes at the top of the curtain. I use a few 0.5" nails on the top sill to hang the curtain evenly. (Skipping every other curtain ring hole). It allows me to then cut the curtain to size and tape it well. But that's my trick bc I am clumsy. Please note that if you try this, you will see the creases of the curtain where it was folded for about 2 weeks before they smooth out.

[@nixonsmateruby1]

You should do an experiment with tealights and a stainless steal toilet brush holder. It gets too hot to pick up, so you get an infra red heater for £2. Another one is an old PC and take out the power supply, and you can use it for led lights, and it's 12v so you can connect it to a 12v heating element and the fan from the PC and put it next to a cold door or window. The tealight one is the best, but I got a hot water dispenser and put tealights in it and because it's stainless steel it makes the heat bounce around, then you put a granite chopping board across the top or a small paving slab and it gets rid of cold draughts.

[@bacardi2324]

Factor in price of energy changes???

[@straceshow3212]

It cuts out drafts making it 100% more comfortable so it’s definitely worth it.

[@staceygordon6540]

I'm so glad you did this video and broke down the cost efficiency. I was debating on whether or not to do this and now I definitely think it's worth the time and effort to at least try it.

[@grace2garden403]

Me too. This sealed the deal, hands down.

[@nixonsmateruby1]

North East England and bought some for £4 from Home Bargains and I wish I had done it years ago. My home is from the 1930s and the double glazing has been transformed, and the biggest change for me was the noise reduction. If you are seeing the plastic then maybe fit it better. Remember, it does not touch your glass. If you buy another product that traps heat in that I also had then that is amazing and every home should have it. I got it from LIDL and it's amazing. It's above 40°c when you touch the window in the summer, and any bit of sun in the winter warms the window. It also traps heat from leaving, it's from a company called PARKSIDE, and it also stops people seeing in through the day. Amazing.

[@MetalAsFork]

59 at night? That's crazy... Even being completely under the covers, I'd be shivering. We just leave ours at 67 all the time.

[@olgaf.893]

It all depends on how good/bad your windows are. If they are bad (single pane, leaky, drafty), then you'll notice great improvement in comfort and you'll save in heating. If your windows are excellent then of course you do not need to put any plastic.

[@KeekCat]

Can it soundproof?

[@oibal60]

I use it on our windows and attic and unused doors, here on Long Island, NY. Definitely stops draughts! Also cold spots in the house has been eliminated. The plastic bows inwards so I know it's keeping cold air at bay.

[@justindrew9702]

Windows with a cornice box to hide a double curtain rod works pretty well too tbh

[@billstuckey7960]

Put plastic outside as well. Save even more.

[@fletcherchad9434]

It's not necessarily about how much you save but more about eliminating cold drafts.

[@spanishflyIam]

I buy my window insulating kits at the local goodwill store every year , $1.99 each.

[@lalajohnson7194]

If you buy the plastic after Christmas or at the end of winter it's usually 20% discounted. To me to keep the place from being cold and drafty it's $20.00 well spent. Besides the 50.00+18.00 is better off in your home then the electric company pocket.

[@mathcamel]

I have good windows but having the plastic over the windows still helps the room feel warmer in the mornings.

[@kathryncooper4001]

The wood-frame windows in my 1950s house had warped by the time I got around to buying in 1993. Hence, I had windows that wouldn't close, some that wouldn't open, and all leaked cold air like a sieve. Until I could afford to replace the windows, I bought plastic shrink wrap each winter, installed it throughout the house, and loved it, Tried three brands over the years, Frost King (it looked sloppy, seemed "foggy," and the adhesive wouldn't come off the window frames after winter was over), 3M (generally acceptable results), and Ace Hardware's house brand (fabulous results). Ace Hardware's plastic went on easily and smoothly, was clear as a bell, virtually invisible. Granted, I had drapes, so the edges didn't show, and no one could see the plastic at all. The difference in comfort level was amazing, and though I didn't keep a spreadsheet to track the savings, I'm certain I saved a great deal of money -- natural gas rates then were exactly three times what they are today. I always recommend Ace's brand to anyone who wants to try this technique.

[@kaptainkanguru101]

Plastics films are "mostlikely" a winning option. Here is more insight from a certified carpenter/insulator (that would be me). Some major factors consider are to be considered, as followed: 1- Different houses = different windows = different air infiltration levels/ (from none to a shit tons), meaning that if the windows were good enough, of course the results will not be outstanding. Different houses : different scenarios. 2- independently of the efficacy of the thermal resistance of the windows, the walls/ceilings/ floors, may lack of insulations. If the windows are good but other surfaces aren't, it deafeat the purpose of using the film. Perhaps, if the ensemble of your property's insulation is up to standard but your windows are cheap, the film will absolutely make a major difference. Different houses= different scenarios. 3- The outdoor climate also impact the air infiltration. Is it -5 F or rather -45 F on the outside of the property? What is the wind factor? Cold air gets sucked in with a ratio which increases/decreases with the temperature differentials between the 2 spaces. Again, Different houses = different scenarios. 4- The double sided tapes need to be making a tight joints when meeting in the corners, otherwise the film won't be creating a 100% seal like it is intended to. Therefore condensation may occur, which decreases the ressitance value. Different idiots = differents results. Regarless of the exaggereted marketing wording from the manufacturer, if your property is worth less than a million dollars, chances are that you are have cheap low grade builder windows and the film will certainly make a positive difference if you are living in sub-zero weather for several months, and the colder the weathet is, the more befefit you'll get from the plastic film. You're welcome.

[@ryanalaska8570]

when you break it down into dollars it seems like a lot of hassle for little "payoff", But where I'm from we would pay $100 dollars MORE every year if we didn't have to feel that frigid -40 Deg F draft sweep across the floor, or stand outside and watch the moisture and heat fluff right out into the cold. The plastic creates a cushion of static air. It defiantly makes a difference. the colder it is outside, the bigger the difference for the most part.

[@SpiritofaHandyman]

Beautifully said!

[@KYoss68]

Probably worth it to do a thermal imaging survey and fill in the insulation gaps and update to triple pane windows.

[@BrettonFerguson]

If you can afford to upgrade. If not, get a sheet of plastic and a roll of tape. When I first bought my house I had no snow on the roof in winter and giant icicles. That is a sure sign of heat escaping. Sure enough, no insulation in the attic. I insulated the entire attic, not I get a foot of snow on my roof and have no icicles, no snow melts because no heat is escaping. I can't afford new windows, i have double pane vinyl, but air leaks through the seams. I put plastic over and it helps a lot.

[@loktom4068]

If you have old leaky windows, yes it's worth it. Even if you pay only a tiny fraction less $ for fuel. At least you can get some warmth and comfort in the cold days of freezing cold winter.

[@kandacepatterson7965]

I just bought plastic clear shower curtains and taped around with masking tape and painters tape. I live in central texas. The building is from the 70's single payne and very flimsy. During the ice storm I kept my heat at 69 it was warm. My bill was 120 for feb the duplex is 500. I think this method works ...I did not use bubble wrap. Usually January and Feb is the cold est. I left the plastic up on three windows for summer to.

[@AWanderingEye]

The only issue I have is we have radiators and need to regularly air house. Will try this on several windows we wouldn't open and see if there is a reduced fuel use.

[@kathleenmurphy2379]

Why don't you just try using the bubble wrap all you have to do is spray it with water that has a little tiny couple drops of detergent in and maybe a couple drops of bleach or a couple drops of the little brown bottle of Lysol to keep mold from growing so just spray that and put the bubble wrap up on the window glass and you can still open the windows

[@rnshi]

Were do you get bulk bubble wrap? I'd like to try this, I just don't recall seeing large amounts in any stores.

[@kathleenmurphy2379]

@@rnshi on one of the videos they said you could get a big role of bubble wrap at Walmart maybe if they don't have it in the store you have to get it from Walmart on the internet. Tomorrow I was going to do some searches because I measured my windows and there like 25 26 in wide

[@kevinbyrne4538]

In my case, there's a large picture window in the dining room. The house's thermostat is also located in the dining room. So, if the dining room is cold, the entire house ends up being overheated (because the thermostat causes the entire house to be heated until the cold dining room reaches the set temperature.) Also, I hate the cold air flowing down the picture window.

[@moondawg3693]

Turn the thermostat down in the dining room, ds.

[@marklittler784]

Top of the window to floor double set of curtains will keep plenty heat in, even better inside curtains along the whole length of outside walls.

[@Phantomworks666]

My bedroom was freezing last night, I finally wrapped the windows this morning and the temperature is VERY noticeable.

[@yeahok2790]

I use 6m plastic and it’s a must for my 110plus year old house. Immediately helps!

[@ggwoman]

That's the way I'm thinking of going too on my old house. Do you put it up interior or exterior? Do you use tape or staples and cardboard strips?

[@timothytravis5276]

@@ggwoman I do the same I use both.bc some windows in my house is odd shaped. When using the cardboard cut the plasticky at less 2 inches wider than the window so you can roll it in the plastic.

[@ggwoman]

@@timothytravis5276 Thanks! Good tip about rolling the plastic. I just finished filling gaps around windows and doors yesterday and applied bubble wrap to some of the windows. What a big difference that has made already. Amazing how window glass conducts cold!