Humans have developed hundreds of ways to minimize the effects of heat and stay protected in scorching summers. From using shades to installing air conditioners, we strive to be comfortable even in the hottest weather.
Today, with the advent of energy-efficient windows, we now have a promising solution that can significantly reduce the transfer of heat into the home, offering a more comfortable and energy-efficient living space.
However, before you install them in your home, you need to understand what they are and how they can benefit you. In this blog post, we have provided a complete analysis of energy-efficient windows. Read on for everything you need to know.
What Are Energy-Efficient Windows?
In simple words, energy-efficient windows increase the sustainability of your home or office. They are meant to reduce the passage of air and heat through the window while providing unaffected natural light and an unobstructed view. Energy-efficient windows can be double or triple-pane, filled with inert gas like argon or krypton, and fixed in insulated frames. Moreover, energy-saving windows are environmentally friendly, as they minimize your reliance on energy consumption or artificial heating and cooling.
What Makes A Window Energy-Efficient?
Energy-efficient windows are different from traditional or single-paned ones because of how they are constructed.
1. Low-E Glass
The glass panes in the windows are a big contributor to heat loss or gain within a building. They transmit heat, leading to increased indoor temperatures and, therefore, increased energy consumption to cool down the home.
However, for energy-efficient windows, they often feature low-E glass. Low-E glass works two ways. Either it reflects the larger portion of the sun away or into the home for later use. In areas with cold winters, the heat reflected inside increases indoor temperatures.
Low-E glass is simply glass with a thin metallic and transparent coating. This coating is applied to the glass to increase the insulation capacity of windows or doors. Moreover, this coating doesn’t interfere with or obstruct the light entering through the window, thus providing a clear and unobstructed view of the outside.
2. Double/Triple Panes
Double or triple-paned windows minimize this effect of heat by trapping the infrared radiation within. Moreover, when filled with inert gasses, they act as heat blockers. Double or triple-glass windows are made of two or three panes separated by warm edge spacers and air between them.
Single-pane windows, though they are less expensive, act as a heat source, particularly if facing the sun. Therefore, they should be avoided if the home’s energy efficiency is concerned.
3. Inert Gas
Inert gasses between window panes are another defining feature of energy-efficient windows. Inert gasses like argon and krypton are non-toxic, odorless, denser than air, and low thermal conductivity gasses. Their filling between the panes significantly blocks the passage of heat and increases the insulation power of the energy-efficient windows. Moreover, when combined with low-E glass, they maintain indoor temperatures and promote energy efficiency.
4. Frame Materials
Energy-efficient windows are constructed of low-heat conducting and robust frame materials. They work alongside the whole system to maintain the building’s temperature. Even if your windows have low-E coatings or multiple panes, if the frame materials aren’t insulated, heat will still seep into your home. This is because the heat blocked by the window panes will simply enter through the frame.
In energy-efficient windows, the use of metallic frames is often avoided because of their high heat-conducting nature and ability to expand and shrink in extreme temperatures. In contrast, windows with wood, fiberglass, and vinyl frames are generally preferred because of their heat insulation properties. Using fiberglass and vinyl in window frames is the recent and modern approach to promoting energy efficiency while using wood is a more traditional method.
Related: How To Stop A Draft From A Window
5. Warm Edge Spacers
Warm edge spacers are another critical component placed between the panes. As the name suggests, they are put to maintain the space between the glasses. They keep the panes at a distance necessary to restrict further heat transmission. Maintaining the space between the glass is important because panes placed with a minimum distance between them are likely to conduct more heat than when spaced. Therefore, warm edge spacers are non-negotiable and unavoidable components in an energy-efficient window.
Benefits of Energy-Efficient Windows
Switching to energy-efficient windows can provide several benefits that go beyond just lowering your energy bills:
- Energy Savings: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save up to around $500 every year by replacing old single-pane windows with new energy-efficient ones.
- Comfort: These windows help maintain a consistent indoor temperature, reducing hot and cold spots in your home.
- Environmental Impact: By reducing your energy consumption, you are contributing to fewer greenhouse gas emissions, which is beneficial for the environment.
- Increased Home Value: Homes with energy-efficient upgrades, including windows, tend to have higher resale values. Prospective buyers are often willing to pay more for energy-efficient features.
How To Identify Energy-Efficient Windows
Energy Star Label
If you’re looking to install energy-efficient windows, knowing which options genuinely reduce heat transfer is crucial. One reliable indicator is the Energy Star label.
The Energy Star label, a trusted symbol for energy efficiency, signifies that the product has undergone rigorous testing by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Products with this label are proven to lower energy costs and reduce carbon footprints without compromising quality or safety. This means you can save on your monthly energy bills while enjoying a more comfortable home environment.
NFRC Label
While the Energy Star label indicates energy efficiency, the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label provides additional performance metrics. The NFRC independently tests and certifies windows to ensure they meet their high standards. Their label offers ratings for U-factor, solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), and other critical performance measures, giving you detailed insights into a window’s energy performance.
By checking for both the Energy Star and NFRC labels, you can make an informed decision and choose the best windows for your home.
Source: energystar.gov
nfrc.org
Choosing Energy-Efficient Windows for Your Region
Your location and climate are key in picking the best energy-efficient windows. Heating costs can soar in winter, especially if your windows aren’t up to par.
Cold Climates: Go for windows with low U-factors. Look for double or triple panes, low-E coatings, and gas fills to keep the heat in.
Hot Climates: Choose windows with low SHGC values. These reduce the heat entering your home, helping it stay cool.
Mixed Climates: Find windows that balance low U-factors and SHGC for year-round comfort.
MidAmerican Energy Company suggests setting your thermostat to 68 degrees in winter. Dropping it by just two degrees can save you over 8% on your energy bill, especially with energy-efficient windows.
The right windows can save you money and keep your home comfy all year long.
How Much Do Energy-Efficient Windows Cost?
The cost of energy-efficient windows isn’t one-size-fits-all, it depends on various factors. If you want to install energy-efficient windows in your home or office, you can expect to pay between $300 to $1,000 each.
Moreover, the cost of energy-efficient windows depends on the frame materials, the number of panes, their size, the number of windows, labor, and the brand.
The cost can also vary based on the expertise and skill level of the installers. So, when deciding to install energy-efficient windows in your home or commercial building, compare different window products and brands, and request multiple quotes from contractors.
Contact The Expert Window Installers In Dayton, OH, For Your Window Replacement
If you are considering installing or replacing your windows, contact the expert and skilled window installers at All Around Roofing, Siding & Gutters in Dayton, OH. The window installers at the company are proficient at handling any window replacement project. If you are thinking of upgrading to energy-efficient windows, contact us today at (937) 902-2839 and consult a skilled professional.
