Investing in energy-efficient windows can lead to significant savings on utilities when they are installed by a reputable contractor and fitted well. Heat gain or heat loss can cause the need for 25% to 30% of residential heating and air conditioning use, but energy-efficient windows combat these costly issues.
What is it that makes some windows more efficient than others? Read on and discover the vital elements that bolster the performance of your replacement windows so you can enjoy a comfy home year-round and lower your energy usage.
The Characteristics of Energy-Efficient Windows
1. U-Factor
This measurement displays how well a window keeps heat in your house. The lower the number, the better. Less than .30 is a good U-factor.
2. Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)
This number tells you how much heat from the sun makes its way into your home. The lower the number, the less heat your replacement windows let into your dwelling.
3. Professional Window Installation
It takes two vital factors to have energy-efficient windows: top brands and expert installation. If you invest in the best windows on the market but they aren’t fitted to your home properly, outdoor air will seep into your home, lowering efficiency and comfort.
4. Low-E Glass
Adding an invisible Low-E coating to your window’s glass can yield greater energy efficiency for your house. This powerful coating safeguards the inside of your home from the sun’s heat and UV rays, while keeping heat from escaping your abode each winter. Our industry favorite—Infinity® from Marvin windows—offer a variety of coatings to choose from:
- Low-E1 – Primarily used in cold climates, this coating reliably blocks heat loss.
- Low-E2 – This is the standard option on Infinity windows. It optimizes your home’s energy efficiency throughout the year by reflecting heat back to its source and retaining heat in your home each winter.
- Low-E3 – Ideal for warmer climates with intense sun exposure, this glazing option has three layers of coating for outstanding performance.
- Low-E3/ERS – This amazing alternative delivers all the benefits of outdoor Low-E3 coatings, and adds an extra indoor coating. As Infinity’s most energy-efficient option, it delivers high performance throughout the year, reflecting 85% of heat back to your home’s interior—making it feel warmer each winter!
5. Frame Material
- Fiberglass – This durable material is one of the most energy-efficient window frame options. It expands and contracts less than other frame materials (such as vinyl). And fiberglass is less likely to warp than vinyl or wood. The tight seal these durable frames deliver keeps your air conditioning and heating inside where they belong, making your abode more energy-efficient.
- Vinyl – These cost-effective windows can offer reliable insulation, but won’t deliver the longevity or protection from moisture intrusion that fiberglass windows offer.
- Wood – Less prone to heat and cold transfer, wood offers good energy efficiency when it is maintained well over the years (which isn’t easy). The classic look of wood is desirable, but its upkeep is tedious.
6. ENERGY STAR® Certified Replacement Windows
When looking for energy-efficient windows, realize that ENERGY STAR certified windows meet a set of standards that are based on your location. So your St. Louis replacement windows meet a different set of requirements than those in Phoenix. While it’s not vital for your windows to be ENERGY STAR rated to be effective, it’s a simple standard to be aware of in your quest for greater energy efficiency.
7. Multiple Panes
Double- or triple-pane windows bolster energy efficiency (and reduce noise intrusion!). They feature insulating gas between the panes, which improves insulation and helps lower energy bills.
Enjoy Maximum Energy Savings with New Windows
It can feel a bit overwhelming to determine the right mix of window frame and glass options for your replacement windows. Our Lakeside Renovation & Design team helps take the mystery out of the equation by guiding you toward optimal window solutions for your unique home, and by recommending only the finest windows on the market. You’re sure to love our durable, attractive Infinity from Marvin fiberglass windows.
As the only Infinity from Marvin authorized contractor in the St. Louis area, our specialized training and experience ensures you get the high performance you deserve for the lifetime of these gorgeous windows. Learn more about how Infinity by Marvin windows can boost your home’s energy efficiency to the max!