Guarded Window Test Apparatus for Determining the Insulation Value of Interior Window Coverings

Abstract

An electronic test apparatus was designed for measuring winter heat flow through windows with and without interior insulating window coverings. The method provides reasonably accurate data on and the insulating effectiveness of various shades and draperies. The test data correlate well with results from other, more expensive and time consuming test methods.

Interim procedure to measure the thermal performance of window systems

“…A popular method for measuring the thermal properties of textile fabrics based on principles of the guarded hot plate has been adapted for the testing of windows with movable insulations [Anderson, 1982].…”

“…The primary advantage of this test method over a hot box test method in testing of insulating window treatments is the substantially lower initial costs of the facility, the smaller laboratory floor space occupied and the rapid achievement of steady-state conditions [Anderson, 1982]. This permits quantitative measurements of window treatment products to be rapidly made at low cost.…”