What Makes an ENERGY STAR®-Certified Window?

In addition to lowering your carbon footprint, energy-efficient windows can help reduce your power bills. An ENERGY STAR® sticker on the window means it uses 20 to 30 percent less energy than regular windows. With the sheer number of options available, however, picking the right window for your home can be challenging. Knowing what makes an Energy Star certified window is important.

Luckily, there’s a way you can find a window that’s suited for your needs. Better View Windows and More, one of the top window replacement companies in the state, elaborates on this below.

What’s the Basis for an ENERGY STAR Certification?

Whether or not a window qualifies for that ENERGY STAR label depends on three factors:

• U-factor – This factor determines a window’s insulation capabilities or how much heat can flow through a window. The lower this factor, the better the window’s insulation capabilities.
• SHGC (solar heat gain coefficient) – This factor gives you an idea on how much solar heat can enter your interior via the window. The lower the SHGC, the less heat passes through the window.
• Air Leakage rating (AL) – This factor indicates the amount of air that can pass through a window. The lower this factor, the less air that can pass through the window.

What Are ENERGY STAR’s Requirements for Each Region?

When shopping for replacement windows , look for the requirements for your region’s climate zone. As a general rule, those in cold climates should get windows with a low U-factor while those in warmer climates should get one with a low SHGC.

The specifics for each region are listed below:

• North Central Region – Windows must have a U-factor of 0.30 or lower and an SHGC of 0.40 or lower to be given a certification.
• Southern Central Region – Windows should have a U-factor of 0.30 or lower and an SHGC of 0.25 or lower to be certified.
• Southern Region – Windows must have a U-factor of 0.40 or lower and an SHGC of 0.25 or lower to be certified.

In order to enjoy all of the benefits ENERGY STAR-certified window has to offer, it has to be properly installed by a qualified contractor.

Better View Windows and More is a locally owned roofing contractor with an expansive catalog of premium window products. We also offer siding and window installation services. To get a free estimate, call (757) 655-3017 or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in Virginia Beach and Norfolk, VA.