Humber/Ontario Real Estate Course 4 Exam Practice

Which of these elements can adversely affect a window's energy performance?

1. Type of blinds used with the window

2. Insulation in nearby walls

3. Proper installation of the window

4. Frame material of the door

The correct answer is: Proper installation of the window

The proper installation of a window is crucial for its energy performance, as even the best-quality windows can underperform if they are not installed correctly. A window that is improperly positioned can create gaps that allow air leakage, which means conditioned air can escape and outdoor air can enter. This can lead to higher energy costs for heating and cooling, as the HVAC system must work harder to maintain the desired temperature inside a building. While the type of blinds, insulation in nearby walls, and frame material of the door can all influence energy efficiency in various ways, they do not directly relate to the window's installation. For instance, while blinds can help regulate sunlight and heat gain, and insulation can help reduce energy loss around the window area, none of these factors would be as directly impactful on the energy performance of the window as the manner in which the window itself is installed. Proper installation ensures that the window seals effectively, maintains structural integrity, and performs optimally in terms of energy efficiency.