PurposeThis study presents the results of empirical measurements of the thermal performance of retrofitted secondary glazed windows, involving installation of an additional windowpane, in a residential context in Australia.Design/methodology/approachIn situ temperature measurements were collected from the surfaces of retrofitted secondary glazed windows in two residential buildings in the Australian Capital Territory. The heat loss savings and subsequently the electricity savings were calculated based on these temperature measurements.FindingsHeat loss reductions of up to 60.8% and electricity savings of up to 9.96% could be achieved by retrofitting single glazed windows with secondary glazing. The findings suggest that the thermal performance of retrofitted secondary glazed windows is comparable to double glazed windows.Practical implicationsMultiple glazed windows provide better energy efficiency, thermal and acoustic performance compared to single glazed windows. It is estimated, however, that 85% Australian buildings still have single glazed windows. Secondary glazing has emerged as a cost-efficient and easier-to-install alternative to double glazed windows. The results of this research can contribute to a wider market uptake of secondary glazed windows in Australia by showing that they have similar thermal performance to double glazed windows.Originality/valueThis research is a first attempt to empirically measure the thermal performance of retrofitted secondary glazed windows with an additional windowpane in a residential setting in Australia. Secondary glazing is the provision of an additional windowpane to the original single glazed window. Previous studies in Australia have focused on performance of double glazed windows.
PurposeRetrofitting single glazing with double glazing saves energy and enhances indoor comfort, however replacement can be expensive. Secondary glazing is an easier-to-install, cost-effective retrofit alternative. There is a gap in the literature about post-retrofit occupant satisfaction with secondary glazed windows in Australia.Design/methodology/approachThis research addresses this gap, with an online survey completed by 56 respondents in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory who retrofitted secondary glazing. This research seeks a deeper understanding of occupier views. Issues of validity and internal and external reliability were addressed in the research.FindingsStrong satisfaction and significant improvement in indoor comfort was found. Over 80% of respondents felt their home had better thermal and noise insulation. Nearly 79% found a positive impact on their property value and 77% would retrofit secondary glazing if they moved. Occupants considered secondary glazing a suitable technical, economic and environmental alternative to double glazing in retrofits.Research limitations/implicationsThere is a chance of sampling bias; only satisfied respondents answer the survey. Survey data was collected from occupants located in a small geographic area and who used the same manufacturer. Different climatic conditions, varying specifications and quality of installed systems could influence perceptions.Practical implicationsMany reported health and wellbeing improvements, higher comfort, higher property value and willingness to invest in residential energy efficiency measures. These findings need to be more widely known in the Australian market.Originality/valueFew studies focus on retrofitting secondary glazing to Australian residential buildings. This study highlights the social, economic and environmental benefits perceived by occupants post-retrofit.
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