3M sells a kit that my husband puts up every year on North facing windows. Yes they do work. In our home they keep the moisture off the sills and really keep down the drafts. No the windows cannot be opened.
Bill, As Karen said, these kits will not allow you to open the windows. You can also caulk the space between the wall and the trim on both the outside and inside, add weather stripping to the bottom of the sash (where it strikes the sill). In addition, you can also use "removable weather stripping caulk" on super-drafty windows. This product allows you to in essence "caulk" the window shut, but can be pealed off come spring with no damage. It is not recommended, however, for any window
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Karen is right on the money. If you want to be able to open the windows (and only do the work once and see continual savings), get a couple of professional estimates for adding low-e film to the windows. Either project could qualify for rebates or tax credits in your area. Check with your utility.
All great points that everyone told you. Air leaks are the cause of the cold your feeling. The 3M shrink kits work great but they are a one time use and as Money Pit told you you cannot open window without loosing this seal.
Caulk strips also work fine, but those can mess with the finish on some windows so you need to be careful when choosing what caulk strips you want.
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You also have the option to have plexiglass panels that are held on by magnetic strips that can be taken down when you need the window open and placed back up when you want the warmth. Bit more expensive then the shrink kits, but less then new storms. Check out this web site for a bit more on these systems. perhaps they can be used where you want to open windows, and purchase the shrink kits for those that can stay closed. http://www.windowsaver.com/
Caulk strips also work fine, but those can mess with the finish on some windows so you need to be careful when choosing what caulk strips you want. ...»
You also have the option to have plexiglass panels that are held on by magnetic strips that can be taken down when you need the window open and placed back up when you want the warmth. Bit more expensive then the shrink kits, but less then new storms. Check out this web site for a bit more on these systems. perhaps they can be used where you want to open windows, and purchase the shrink kits for those that can stay closed. http://www.windowsaver.com/