Energy Star Replacement Windows

Energy Star replacement windows are government certified windows guaranteed to increase a home’s energy efficiency. The Energy Star certification program is a voluntary partnership program between various window manufacturers, the U.S. Department of Energy, and the Environmental Protection Agency. It was conceived of by the federal government as part of an effort to encourage advancements in window technology and to help homeowners and business owners protect the environment through the purchase and installation of highly energy efficient windows. If you’re considering investing in Energy Star replacement windows, here’s a look at what this certification means and some of its benefits.

What Are Energy Star Replacement Windows

What makes Energy Star replacement windows unique is that they are guaranteed to perform at levels that meet or exceed strict energy efficiency guidelines that have been established by the U.S. Department of Energy. The Energy Star program was originally founded in 1992 as a labeling program for computer equipment but has been extended to a variety of appliances and other products, including replacement windows, doors, and skylights. It has become a leader in helping consumers determine which products are truly energy efficient.

Criteria for Energy Star Replacement Windows

In terms of windows, Energy Star ratings are centered around four different criteria: U-factor (rate that non-solar heat flows through the window); solar heat gain coefficient, or SHGC (the solar energy that enters a home through the window); air leakage (or occurrence of drafts); and visible transmittance, or VT (the amount of visible sunlight transmitted through the window). Specifically, replacement windows that earn an Energy Star certification use multiple panes of glass, often filled with a low-conducting gas to boost insulation. Frames must be constructed with high-quality, low-conductive material, and glass is usually coated to reflect UV and infrared rays, reducing incidence of heat radiation.

Benefits of Energy Star Replacement Windows

The Energy Star rating carries with it certain assurances to the consumer, the foremost being cost savings on utility bills. Since ratings are based on the transference of energy through the window structure, a certification ensures that heat/air conditioning is being kept inside and not leaked to the outdoors. An added benefit here is the ability of the homeowner to better control internal temperatures, leading to a home that’s considerably more comfortable. Special window coatings not only help maintain the controlled environment, but they also protect interior valuables from the damaging effects of UV rays, which can over time fade fabrics, wood, photographs, and other items. Finally, investing in Energy Star replacement windows helps you reduce your carbon footprint, contributing to a more sustainable environment.

Energy Star replacement windows are easily identified by clear labeling affixed directly to the window in question. If you’re investing in replacement windows, find out whether the windows you're considering carry the Energy Star rating so you can determine how efficient your new windows will actually be.