Building Management Hawaii - February/March 2012 - (Page 32)

Technologically Advanced Window Films Provide Smart Solutions By Billy Pettit and Geoff Pettis n Hawaii, it’s only natural that many buildings feature large windows. Not only are there outstanding views to take in, but taking advantage of the ample natural light is a great way to conserve energy. However, many building owners know that windows can also come with energy trade-offs, as the heat they let in can send energy bills up, and can also lead to discomfort for building occupants. Window films present a smart solution for these challenges in Hawaii’s buildings. A recent study conducted by Hawaii Energy found that window films ranked in the top three technologies, based on total energy saved, for all products that the I program rebated. Due to this finding, window film rebates in Hawaii were increased from $0.35 per square foot to $1 per square foot — a 185 percent increase. In addition, the U. S. Department of Energy recognizes window film as a top tier conservation technology. The Department of Energy gave window film a maximum rating in terms of probability of success in the market, as well as its cost effectiveness. This rating for cost effectiveness suggests that in some situations, the technology can pay for itself in less than three years. Changing Technologies Technology for window films has come a long way since the original introduction. When window films were first invented in the mid-60s, they were only available in a highly reflective metallic film, applied on the interior. While this early generation of films was effective at keeping solar energy out, the highly reflective look on the interior was often not accepted aesthetically. Advances were soon made to these metallized films to improve the ability of building inhabitants to see outside. One technology, a hybrid film, uses a tinted or pigmented film or coating on top of metallized film to reduce the interior reflection. While these films still have a dark appearance on the window, they allow for better night vision. Before After 32 February-March 2012 BMH www.buildingmanagementhawaii.com http://www.buildingmanagementhawaii.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Building Management Hawaii - February/March 2012

Cover
Editorial
Associations
Movers and Shakers
Aimee Harris, Trade Publishing’s New Editorial Director
Energy-generating Elevators
Rooftop Evolution: The Convergence of Roofing and Energy Technologie
Being Smart About PV Systems
Hawaii Energy and You
Solar Leasing Programs Lower Costs and Maintenance
Shifting Winds: The Changing Shape of A/C
How Safe Is Your Safety Glass?
Window Glazing as a Source of Water Leaks
Technologically Advanced Window Films Provide Smart Solutions
Hawaii Buildings, Facilities and Property Management Expo 2012

Building Management Hawaii - February/March 2012