Simple Energy Efficient Window Science Fair Project

Looking for a meaningful science fair project? This energy efficient window science fair project tests the energy efficiency of various window coverings to determine which material is the most insulating against heat.

This energy-efficient window science fair project will help kids determine what type of window covering is the best to use to prevent heat from the sun from coming in through the windows and driving up our energy bills during the summer.

This science fair project and science experiment for kids is low-cost, and kids can do it entirely on their own, which makes it the perfect addition to your list of elementary school science fair projects.

Easy science fair project that kids will love to do! Try the energy-efficient window science project and find out the best way to reduce energy bills!

How to Do the Energy Efficient Window Science Fair Project

This simple science fair project tests the energy efficiency of various window coverings to determine which is the best insulator against heat.

We used this science experiment to determine how to keep heat out of the house during summer for maximum energy efficiency and to cut down on air conditioner use and our electricity bill.

This experiment makes a wonderful energy project for kids.

And if you want more ideas, check out these classic science fair projects.

Energy Efficient Window Hypothesis

Monkey thought that since the plastic wrap is the most similar to glass, it would end up being the most energy-efficient and best at keeping the heat out.

She figured since all windows are made of glass (for the most part), that it HAD to be the most energy-efficient! She was pretty surprised at the actual results.

Science Fair Project Supplies

Plastic wrap
Duct tape (ours had unicorns on it)
Small cardboard box
Digital thermometer
Wax paper
Cloth
Aluminum foil
Small container
Ice
Hair dryer
Timer
Cardboard box

What You Need for a Science Fair

You’ll want to have these supplies on hand before doing your science fair project. Shop the included Amazon storefronts to make things easier and don’t forget to download the free science fair planning checklist before getting started!

Science Fair Project Planning

When you’re planning your project, you want to keep everything organized. Click the image below to get my free science fair project checklist so you can start organizing your project from the start.

You may also want to check out this list of science fair project research supplies.

Supplies for a Science Fair Project

There are so many supplies for science fair projects that are individual to each project, but if you want a general list of possible supplies and inspiration for your project, check out my selection of science fair experiment supplies on Amazon.

Supplies for a Science Fair Presentation

Your science fair presentation is important! It should look presentable and eye-catching. Check out this list of my favorite science fair presentation supplies.

Energy Efficient Window Science Fair Project

First, Monkey had to set up her window. She cut the flaps off of a cardboard box (and we used them later), leaving an open square. This was her “house.” Inside the house, she placed a small bowl with some ice in it to represent the air conditioner.

Monkey cut a square of each of the materials (wax paper, plastic wrap, cloth, aluminum foil, and cardboard) slightly larger than the opening in the box.

As the control, Monkey tested the temperature inside the house before turning on the heater. She also kept the box in the same location for each trial and exposed each material to the heat for the same amount of time.

This energy efficient window science fair project tests the energy efficiency of window coverings to determine which is the most insulating against heat.

Energy Efficient Window Science Fair Project Step-by-Step Directions

Each type of window covering was exposed to warm air (a hair dryer set to low blowing on low) for 60 seconds.

After the hair dryer was turned off, Monkey placed a digital thermometer inside the box to determine the temperature inside the box after exposure to the heat.

The starting temperature in the box without any extra heat was 77.5 degrees Fahrenheit.