ENERGY STAR(r) certified windows are an excellent way to save money on energy bills and improve your home’s comfort. They are also environmentally friendly, and they can increase your home’s value.
Choosing windows with the right features will help you save on energy costs year-round. Start by looking for the ENERGY STAR(r) label and ratings on the energy performance label from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC).
Low-E Glass
Low-E Glass is a microscopically thin coating that reflects heat back inside your home, keeping the temperature consistent. It also reduces the amount of energy that enters your home, which can help lower your heating and cooling costs over time.
This special coating reflects short-wave infrared and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It will significantly reduce UV rays that are known to cause fabrics and furniture to fade.
Choosing energy-efficient windows can also reduce the wear and tear on your heaters and air conditioners, which can result in lower maintenance bills. Plus, the energy savings can increase the value of your home if you decide to sell it in the future.
Energy-Efficient Spacers
Spacers, which separate glass panes in insulated windows, have a significant impact on energy efficiency. They determine the amount of heat and cold that can pass through a window, which can reduce heating and cooling costs and keep the temperature of your home comfortable all year long.
The quality of the spacer system, including its longevity, flexibility and thermal properties, can make a big difference in how well your windows work. Having a bad spacer can lead to condensation and fogging within your insulated windows, which can shorten their lifespan significantly.
For instance, aluminum spacers flex during temperature changes and can compromise the seal between panes. However, PPG’s Intercept warm edge spacer system uses a U-shaped design that resists seal failure.
Energy-Efficient Seals
One of the most important parts of a window is the seal. It is the material that holds each panel of glass in place and helps to make it energy efficient.
The seal also protects the glass from moisture. When a window isn’t sealed properly, water can enter the frame and cause damage to the glass.
This can be very expensive for homeowners to repair or replace and it can also create a problem for the heating and cooling system. New windows help to prevent this problem from happening by keeping your home sealed.
Energy-Efficient Hardware
One of the best ways to reduce energy consumption is to improve the efficiency of your hardware. Computer hardware is responsible for a lot of the watts being used to run your system, so reducing its efficiency will result in big savings on your power bills.
The most energy efficient hardware is a combination of advanced technology and a solid design strategy. This includes things like the right window sizes and styles for your space, insulated glass, and more efficient heating and cooling equipment.
A well-designed window can also be a good indicator of the quality of your home’s overall HVAC system. For example, if you replace old windows with new ones, you can increase the overall efficiency of your heating and cooling systems, saving you money on your utility bills over time.
Energy-Efficient Installation
Energy-efficient windows Murray UT can help you save on heating and cooling costs. In addition, they can improve the overall insulation of your home and reduce your environmental impact.
New windows can also add value to your home and increase your home’s marketability. This makes them a worthwhile investment for any homeowner, especially if you’re looking to sell your home in the near future.
When buying energy efficient windows, look for the ENERGY STAR logo and an energy performance label from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). These labels will tell you how energy-efficient a window is.