The number and type of windows in your home can make a significant difference to its energy efficiency. New custom replacement windows are designed and built to prevent heated or cooled air from escaping your home, helping you save money on electricity bills year-round.
Learn how to identify high-efficiency windows by reading their NFRC ratings. Look for whole-unit U-factors and SHGCs, rather than center-of-glass numbers.
Cost
Energy efficient windows help keep your house cooler in summer and warmer in winter, so you don’t have to use as much energy. This decrease in energy usage results in reduced electric bills, making your home more environmentally sustainable. Additionally, they add value to your property.
They’re designed to minimize heat transfer and air leakage. They typically feature double or triple panes with a layer of nontoxic noble gas between them. Double-pane windows often contain argon, while triple-pane windows may have krypton gas. The argon provides more insulation and lowers your window’s U-factor.
Energy-efficient windows are generally more expensive than standard windows, but they can produce significant energy savings over time. Additionally, many manufacturers offer rebates and tax credits to offset up-front costs. Also, be sure to choose a company that offers a warranty to protect your investment. In addition, check with local authorities to see if you need to obtain a permit for window installation.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficient windows reduce your reliance on heating and cooling systems to keep your home comfortable throughout the year. This reduced dependence on your HVAC system results in lower energy bills each month.
Your windows are responsible for 25%-30% of your home heating and cooling costs, so reducing this loss is crucial. Energy-efficient replacement windows can do this by limiting the transfer of heat into and out of your home.
Several components can make your new windows more energy efficient, including high-quality frame materials that insulate and reduce heat transfer. Double-paned glass with a gap between the panes is another energy-saving feature, and low-emissivity coatings reduce the amount of solar heat that passes through your window.
Energy efficient windows can also help reduce condensation in your home. This is a common problem that occurs when warm air cools and condenses on cold windows, leaving streaks and puddles of moisture behind. Energy efficient windows can prevent this from occurring by maintaining a constant temperature and reducing humidity levels.
Materials
The materials that make up a window and frame have a huge impact on its energy efficiency. In particular, the frame and sash material will greatly affect its insulating properties.
Fiberglass frames are high-performing and low maintenance, compared to wood or aluminum. Vinyl is also highly affordable and a great substitute for aluminum or wood.
ENERGY STAR and NFRC labels on windows indicate their performance and credibility. The labeling system helps homeowners compare products and choose the best fit for their home.
Older, inefficient windows allow a lot of air to pass through the sash and frame, making heating and cooling systems work harder to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. Modern windows are designed to prevent this unwanted transfer of air, lowering HVAC usage and saving homeowners money each month. In addition to limiting air infiltration, modern windows are insulated better than ever before. Many have Low-E coatings and argon gas fill space between the glass panes to improve thermal efficiency.
Installation
Adding new windows to your home can boost the value of the property and increase its energy efficiency. These windows also reduce noise pollution and help to keep the house cool in summer. In addition, they offer a wide selection of designs and styles to suit every taste.
When choosing replacement windows, it is important to choose those with a low U-factor. This will save you money on your energy bills. In addition, you should consider the amount of UV rays that are exposed to your home during the warmer months. These rays can fade carpet, furniture and curtains.
The best way to get the most out of your new windows is to hire a professional installer. These professionals will ensure that your new windows are properly installed and that they are insulated to prevent heat transfer. They will also install energy-efficient windows that are certified by ENERGY STAR. These windows will keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.