Summer in Arizona means sunshine, high temperatures, and a big spike in energy use, especially if your home isn’t sealed tight. One area homeowners often overlook is their patio doors. Worn-out or poorly insulated doors can become a major source of heat gain, driving up cooling costs and making your home less comfortable. Here are 4 signs your patio doors are hurting your energy efficiency this summer—and what you can do about it.

1. You Feel the Heat—Literally

If you walk past your patio doors and feel a noticeable temperature difference, that’s a red flag. Glass that isn’t double-paned or coated with a low-E (low emissivity) finish can let in excessive UV rays and heat. Over time, this not only makes your air conditioner work harder but also fades your floors and furniture.

• Quick Fix: Add UV-filtering window film or install thermal curtains to help block out the sun.
• Long-Term Upgrade: Replace outdated models with energy-efficient patio doors that offer better insulation and advanced glazing options like JELD-WEN or Milgard vinyl sliding doors.

2. They Stick, Jam, or Slide Poorly

Summer heat can cause door frames to swell, especially if they’re made of wood or older materials. If your sliding door becomes hard to open or close, it could be a sign of warping. When patio doors don’t seal tightly, they let in warm air and let out cool air, wasting energy and raising your power bills.

• Quick Fix: Check the door track for debris, clean it out, and lubricate the rollers.
• Long-Term Upgrade: Consider upgrading to durable options like the 5000 Series Sliding Patio Doors or aluminum sliding doors from The Window Depot for smoother operation year-round.

3. You Notice Fogging or Drafts

Condensation between glass panes or a constant draft near the frame signals a broken seal. Even a small air leak can have a big impact during peak summer temperatures. If your cooling system seems to be running constantly, your old patio door could be to blame.

• Quick Fix: Use weather stripping or caulk to seal any visible gaps temporarily.
• Long-Term Upgrade: Modern patio doors, such as the California 1 Inch Setback 5000 Series, offer better sealing technology and come in stylish options like BlackCap for a sleek finish.

4. Your Energy Bills Keep Climbing

If your summer utility bills seem higher than usual, even with your thermostat set consistently, it might be time to take a closer look at your patio doors. Older or poorly insulated doors can become weak points in your home’s thermal envelope, allowing cool air to escape and hot outdoor air to seep in. This forces your HVAC system to work overtime, especially during heat waves.

• Quick Fix: Use a draft detector or even a candle test to check for leaks around the frame.
• Long-Term Upgrade: Swapping out inefficient doors for energy-efficient patio doors—like the Milgard or JELD-WEN vinyl options—can significantly lower your energy usage while boosting year-round comfort.

Upgrade Your Patio Doors for Comfort and Savings

Your patio doors should offer more than a pretty view—they should protect your home from heat, UV rays, and energy loss. If yours are causing problems, The Window Depot can help. From aluminum sliding doors to French patio doors and high-performance vinyl options, we carry energy-efficient styles that improve your home’s comfort and cut down on your summer utility bills.

Ready to make the switch? Visit The Window Depot today to explore patio door solutions designed to handle the heat.