Energy Efficiency Experiment: Warm Windows

While your kids are home for summer, try this science experiment to help teach them about their energy use and the value of a dollar.

Warm Windows

You’ll need: Two cardboard boxes with lids (e.g., shoeboxes), black construction paper, glue, tape, clear plastic wrap, box cutter, two thermometers.

Directions

1. Using the box cutter (a parent or guardian should handle the box cutter), cut a rectangular hole into the top of one of the boxes. In that same box, place a piece of plastic wrap to cover the hole and tape it down smooth. The result should leave you with a window to see into your box. Leave the second box as is with no holes.

2. Glue the black construction paper to the inside bottom of both boxes.

3. Place one thermometer in each box.

4. Close both boxes and tightly wrap plastic wrap around the sides of the boxes to ensure they are closed and all openings are sealed. Use tape to secure the plastic wrap.

5. Set the boxes in the sun for about an hour, depending on the temperature. Make sure the window opening is facing up so that the sun shines directly through the window.

6. After the hour is up, open the boxes and record the temperature readings from the thermometers in each box.

Results

The box with the window opening should have a higher temperature.

Explanation

The window in the first box acts like a window in a home that does not have curtains or blinds covering it. The other box acts as a window with the curtains and blinds closed. Keeping curtains and blinds drawn over windows in direct sunlight ensures a home will remain cooler and its air conditioning system won’t have to work as hard.