5 Essential Tips To Help You Buy Energy Efficient Windows

One of the most common reasons for homeowners to repair or update their aging windows is to improve their home’s energy efficiency. Energy-efficient windows not only make your house more pleasant and comfortable all year, but they can also help homeowners save money on power bills. Energy-efficient windows help homes decrease their carbon footprint by reducing energy consumption, which helps to safeguard the environment.

5 Essential Tips To Help You Buy Energy Efficient Windows

Understanding Window Metrics and Configurations

There are various metrics assigned to windows that determine their performance and energy efficiency. 

U-Factor: This is the rate at which heat escapes a window and a lower U-Factor indicates that the window performs well at mitigating heat loss. Look for lower U-Factor numbers. Look for a number between 0.20-1.20 for good energy efficiency.

Visible Transmittance: This metric helps determine the amount of light the window lets into your home. If a window is double-glazed or triple-glazed, it will impede the amount of light entering the room. Look for a range of 0-1 if you wish to have more natural light in the window.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient: This determines how much heat or solar radiation is permitted inside the home through the window. The lower the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, the better the window is at resisting heat and reflecting heat. To make energy-efficient windows, windows are treated with Low-E (low-emissivity) coating improving the heat a window reflects and allowing rooms to cool down better during warmer weather.

The SHGC Factor is determined by the weather and climate as to what is most suitable for your home. 

Air Leakage: The air leakage infiltration determines the being let into the building via windows and air leakage exfiltration is the air let out of the building. A lower number indicates that the window is designed for efficient airflow and prevents unwanted movement of air. Look for a range of 0-1 and lower numbers for the prevention of air leakage.

Differentiate Between Energy Efficient Windows Vs Ordinary Windows

The fastest way of determining whether a window is energy efficient or not is by locating the Energy Star Logo. If the window has the energy logo, you can be assured that it has been put through rigorous testing and various procedures that help it meet industry standards of energy efficiency. Energy-certified windows are made in a way to allow infrared rays to enter the room which prevents the escape of warm air. This is especially useful for colder climates found in Canada.

Performance and Window Options

Windows come in a variety of styles, designs, and opening methods. You must consider their operation to comprehend their energy qualities. Casements, awnings, and tilt & turn windows can swing outwards or inwards, and glide sideways or vertically (sash windows). Casement windows are one of the most preferred window styles due to their ability to maximize air ventilation. They are one of the most energy-efficient windows on the market, especially for extreme climates. During cold winds, these windows seal even tighter, increasing their energy efficiency vs windows that let in cold drafts.  Double-hung windows and picture windows are also popular choices if you’re selecting styles that promote energy efficiency and performance.

Window Material To be Used

The window frame material has the greatest impact on pricing and performance after choosing functionality. The frame not only affects the thermal performance of a window but also provides durability and weather resistance. The most appropriate window material that promotes energy efficiency and insulation is either vinyl or fiberglass windows. 

Right Window Glazing That Saves You Money

Glass (glazing) is an essential part of your window’s performance. Thermal performance can be optimized using a variety of glazing types and coatings. High-tech coatings, films, spacer bars, and low-emissivity gases are introduced into the window glazing to create these configurations.

Double-glazing windows are an important step in increasing energy efficiency and lowering the U-Value, or the amount of heat that a window lets through. The next stage is to specify triple-glazed windows to attain even lower U-Values. Check with Eco Choice Windows and Doors to understand what glazing options will work best for your specified budget and we’ll be happy to provide easy financing options for your home project.

Eco Choice Windows – The Professional Energy Efficient Window Installers

Eco Choice Windows provide high-quality, energy-efficient windows that are tested to withstand Canadian weather conditions. Talk to our professional experts now about how you may save on your heating and cooling bills by installing new windows in your house. Contact us at 1-855-273-3261 today.