Energy-efficient windows, also known as energy-saving windows, keep warm or cool air from escaping from your home. This enhanced insulation lowers your energy utilization and ultimately your utility bills. They also make your home quite livable altogether.
According to the US Department of Energy, “excessive heat and energy loss through windows account for 25-30% of household heating and cooling energy usage.” This indicates you’re overpaying for hours of temperature regulation which is essentially going out the window daily.
US Department of Energy has also stated that energy-efficient windows can help you save. When upgrading from single-paned windows to ENERGY STAR® approved double-paned, or clear-glass windows this results in yearly savings of $126 to $465.
How to Choose the Best Window
Efficient windows values are determined by the type of windows being replaced. If you have single-pane windows with warped wood frames, for example, you will most likely notice a big change in your electricity expenses. Most homes, though, are most likely not in this condition.
Certain frame styles, glazings, and insulation choices, for instance, may perform better for some homes than others. There are a few additional things to look at and think about to ensure you’re getting the most bang for your money. See the list of elements that contribute to a window’s energy efficiency below.
The Energy Star Rating
This emblem shows that your windows either meet or surpass high energy efficiency requirements. Structures that are ENERGY STAR® rated save energy, money, and help protect the environment by emitting fewer greenhouse gases than standard buildings.
NFRC Ratings
Ratings by the National Fenestration Rating Council make it possible to evaluate energy-efficient windows and doors by offering numerous energy performance ratings. This involves how efficiently a product stops heat from leaving a space, resists unwanted heat absorption from the outside, and effectively illuminates your house with ambient sunshine. It also regulates how much air will seep into and out of a room.
Low Emissivity Glass
Low-e or low-emissivity coats keep heat within your home in the winter and out in the summer. These coatings are impact how heat energy from sunshine travels throughout. An outer Low-E coating can prevent UV and infrared radiation, from entering your property while permitting sunlight to travel through.
Argon Gas
Argon gas, which makes up around 1% of our air, is a non-toxic, transparent, and unscented gas. This gas is considerably denser than air and has a thermal conductivity of around 67%. Indicating slower-moving, thicker glass reduces heat transmission.
Argon gas is a great air-current buffer. This is especially true when the air currents collide at different temperatures. The draft you experience with standard, non-argon-filled windows is caused by conventional air which is a weaker insulator than argon gas. Argon gas actually makes sense for homeowners in places with intense, ever-changing seasons for insulating your house against abrupt temperature dips.
Glass Tints
Tinted film blocks sun exposure when added to windows. The tinting film is composed of polyester. The different layers of the film work together to limit solar heat buildup while yet allowing enough light through.
LockTight Impact Windows & Doors
Top-quality energy-efficient windows will save you a lot of money over time by reducing your home’s total energy and monthly bills.
They will also provide you with outstanding results for years and help to maximize the value of your property. Most of all, they will offset your carbon footprint. This means that by installing energy-efficient windows, you will be leading a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Reducing emissions has never been more alluring!
Increase your home’s curb appeal and property value by switching to impact windows and doors with LockTight Impact Windows & Doors.