What are Energy Efficient Windows and Why are they Important?
Energy efficient windows are designed to reduce the amount of heat lost or gained through the glass, helping to keep your home more comfortable and lower your energy bills.
The right type of modern window also reduces or eliminates air drafts from around the window, and filters the sunlight that enters your home. Reducing air drafts is beneficial in the winter, and filtering sunlight is beneficial in the heat of summer. Filtered sunlight also prevents the furniture and other valuables inside your home from fading.
But what exactly makes a window energy efficient? And why is it important to have energy efficient windows in your home?
Energy Efficient Windows Don’t Lose Much Heat
One of the most important factors in determining a window’s energy efficiency is its U-value. The U-value is a measure of how much heat is lost through the window. The lower the U-value, the better the window’s insulation and the more energy efficient it is.
The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) provides a U-value rating for all windows, making it easy for homeowners to compare the energy efficiency of different windows.
Efficient Windows Filter Solar Heat Gain
Another important factor in determining a window’s energy efficiency is its solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). The SHGC is a measure of how much solar heat is allowed to enter the home through the window. The lower the SHGC, the less solar heat will enter the home, which can help to keep your home cooler in the summer and reduce your energy bills.
Energy Efficient Windows Have Multiple Panes of Glass
Energy efficient windows also have multiple panes of glass, which are separated by a space that is filled with an inert gas such as argon or krypton. These gases are denser than air, which helps to slow down the transfer of heat through the window.
Additionally, most energy efficient windows have a low-e coating, which is a thin layer of metal that is applied to the glass. This coating reflects heat back to its source, which helps to keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
Efficient Windows Lower Energy Costs
Energy efficient windows are important because they can help to lower your energy bills. By replacing older single pane windows, you’ll reduce the amount of heat lost or gained through the windows, and your heating and cooling system will not have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home. This can result in significant savings on your energy bills.
Windows Make Your Home Comfortable
Energy efficient windows also help to improve the comfort of your home. By reducing drafts and hot spots, your home will be more comfortable and you will be less likely to experience temperature fluctuations.
Modern Windows are Environmentally Friendly
Energy efficient windows are also better for the environment. By reducing your energy consumption, you will be helping to reduce the amount of greenhouse gases that are emitted into the atmosphere. This can help to slow down climate change and protect the planet.
In conclusion, energy efficient window is an important investment for any homeowner. They can help to lower your energy bills, improve the comfort of your home, and protect the environment.
When purchasing replacement windows, it’s important to look for windows with a low U-value and a low SHGC, multiple panes of glass and a low-e coating. It’s also important to consult with a professional window contractor to ensure that your energy efficient window is properly installed and that you are satisfied with the final result.
