Final answer:
A homeowner may install double-glazed windows to reduce the costs of heating and air conditioning due to their insulation properties, as well as to create an environmentally friendly home. The correct answer is option: d) To save money on heating and air conditioning.
Step-by-step explanation:
A homeowner might request a glazier to install double-glazed windows primarily to save money on heating and air conditioning. The two layers of glass and the air gap between them in double-glazed windows act as insulation, reducing the transfer of heat between the inside of the home and the outside environment. This means in the winter, less heat escapes from the inside of the house, and during the summer, less heat enters, therefore reducing the energy required for heating and cooling.
Other benefits of double-glazing include reducing outside noise, increasing security due to the stronger windows, and potentially reducing the risk of condensation inside the window panes. Properly installed double-glazed windows can contribute to creating more environmentally friendly homes. This insulation strategy complements other design choices, such as strategic window placement for optimal solar gain and the use of thermal masses.
Current research efforts into environmentally friendly homes often focus on reducing conventional heating and cooling costs through such strategies, reflecting the potential for double-glazed windows to contribute to the overall energy efficiency and comfort of a home.