Energy Star Window Replacement Options
Windows and doors are historically the most vulnerable spots in the home for drafts and heat loss. It’s critical for new and replacement windows to be as energy efficient as possible. You can rest assured that your windows meet a high standard of energy efficiency if they bear the Energy Star label. Learn the basics in this Renewal by Andersen video:
The Energy Star program, administered by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency, sets an energy efficiency standard that window manufacturers must meet in order to qualify as an Energy Star Partner. Once qualified, manufacturers may apply the Energy Star label to their products, allowing prospective buyers to easily pick out their energy efficient windows in a showroom. Energy Star qualified windows not only help to protect the environment but can also reduce your energy bills up to 15%.
The Energy Star criteria for residential windows are tailored to four Climate Zones: Norther, North/Central, South/Central and Southern. A window’s energy efficiency for a given climate is based on it impact on heat gain in warm weather and heat gain and loss in cold weather. Windows that are energy efficient in one climate will not necessarily be energy efficient in another climate. Energy Star eligible windows must be rated, certified and labeled for both U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient in accordance with the procedures of the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) at levels meeting qualification criteria in at least one Climate Zone.
There are 550 window manufacturers that create Energy Star-rated windows; however, you are unlikely to find 550 different window brands at local window supply stores. The most popular window brands, such as Andersen, Pella, Milgard, Champion, Alside and CertainTeed all qualify as Energy Star partners, which is good news for homeowners as it will make shopping for new or replacement windows much easier. Remember also that energy efficient window purchases now qualify for a federal tax credit of up to $1,500.
