As energy costs continue to go up, especially as we head into the summer months, more homeowners would love to find ways to cut costs on air conditioning and heating (in the cool months). Reducing energy consumption is also high on the list of priorities for environmentally conscious people, and thus, it\'s been given a lot of media attention.

If you also are looking for ways to save on your energy costs, we have some suggestions for you, all pertaining to your windows.

Specifically, we suggest that you replace your old, leaky windows with some that are more energy efficient. Those old single-pane windows are quite inefficient.

Here\'s why. These old winders are not insulated, and usually they have not been treated with heat-reflecting or low-E coatings.

As a result, they let a lot of heat transfer out and in. This means that whether you\'re heating or cooling your house, a good amount of energy is escaping via your windows\' thin glass.

Also if you have damaged or broken windows, these are probably leaking a lot, no matter if they\'re single or double-pane windows.

The bottom line is that, to create a more energy efficient home, you need to get some replacement windows. To illustrate, an October 2007 issue of CONSUMER REPORTS says that installing double pane windows in place of your old ones could save the homeowner between ten and 25 percent on annual energy costs.

When you\'re shopping for your new windows, be sure to get those with insulating features, as they will provide maximum energy savings. Some options will include heat-reflecting film, low-E coatings, double panes, and windows filled with argon gas.

Many replacement windows will include two or more of these elements, offering maximum energy retention. More than half of all replacement windows in the United States are made of vinyl; they\'re inexpensive and low-maintenance. Plus, they frequently offer multiple energy-efficient features.

You can find replacement windows in almost every style and size, everything from picture windows to double-hung windows. Thus, no matter the type of windows you hope to find, you can find something to fit your needs.

Keep in mind that custom sizes will cost slightly more, but this cost will be far outweighed by the energy savings you experience.

It\'s best to replace all older windows at your house, but if you can\'t afford it all at once, you\'ll see good savings by just replacing the damaged ones or even just the doors. A single cracked window lets in and out a whole lot of air!

So if need be, take it slowly. Start by replacing the obviously damaged windows. Then move one by one into the other older windows. With each replacement, your energy savings should continue to increase and improve.

Remember that your windows are on your house for more than just making it look pretty and letting you look outside. They also are meant to protect you from the elements. Quality replacement windows do the best job of protecting you from the elements in a cost-effective manner.