Home improvements: How to save energy

A simple act such as covering your windows in window film can have far reaching benefits on the energy efficiency of your home.

Window film is a clear layer of high performance polyester that is fixed to the inside of glass windows and doors. This protective film upgrades the performance of the glass in terms of solar control, heat rejection, glare reduction, UV blockage and light transmission.

Due to its heat-rejecting properties, window film increases the energy efficiency of your air conditioning unit. With more than 60 per cent of an average home energy bill spent on cooling, the installation of window film is the most effective way to save money on monthly bills, with customers often seeing savings of up to 30 per cent.

Overall, the benefits of window film in a climate such as ours makes home window tinting a wise investment with instant results in terms of comfort and savings.

You can expect to pay around Dh150 for a standard sliding door and there is a wide range of shades so your property won't lose natural light.

* Gavin Bannerman, founder, Laminas Window Films, www.laminas.ae