Energy Star certified windows are the most energy efficient windows to place in your home or business. Independent tests of these products ensure they meet energy efficiency guidelines that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set. Installing these windows in your home can result in a large decrease in utility costs by keeping your home insulated from outside elements. When it comes to window installation at Able Roof, we offer window options that come Energy Star certified to make your home as energy efficient as possible.
Energy Star Certification Standards
To earn an Energy Star certification for energy efficiency, a product must be manufactured by an Energy Star partner, meet independent testing standards, and meet strict guidelines set forth by the EPA. To adhere to these strict standards, windows must contain at least two panes of glass, argon or krypton between glass panes, strong framing materials, and a standard called “Low-E.” The combination of these factors will ensure your home is energy efficient and utility costs are low.
Low-E Standards
“Low-E” stands for low-emittance, which is a special coating on the glass that helps to reflect sun rays. These coatings minimize UV rays coming through a home’s windows, without decreasing the amount of visible sunlight. During the cold winter months, heat-energy that is trying to escape through windows is reflected into the home. The same is true in the summer months, as heat from outside trying to pass through windows is reflected, which minimizes the heat transfer into the home. Check out our blog about Windows To Keep You Cool in the Summer, Warm in the Winter!
Argon and Krypton
Here at Able, our energy efficient windows possess either Argon or Krypton between the panes of glass. Both materials are gasses, injected between panes to help with insulation. Heavier than oxygen, Argon and Krypton insulate better to keep heat in during the winter and out during the summer.
How Efficient Are Energy Star Certified Windows?
The science behind Energy Star certified windows proves that they are effective. A window with two panes of glass with low-E protection and argon gas will block 85 percent of the sun’s UV rays. If the window contains three panes of glass, that number changes to 87 percent of UV ray blockage. Some studies have shown that home-wide installation of these windows can reduce utility costs by 40 percent. In the eastern US, cold winters and hot summers mean that utility costs are high year-round. Make sure that you are doing all you can to lower these costs by choosing the right window replacements.
Costs of Energy Efficient Windows
Luckily, the prices of Energy Star certified windows have dropped in recent years, as they have become more commonplace. These windows are the best option for a home or business, and the most cost-effective means of keeping energy costs low. Once the window installation is complete, you will see a decrease in your utility bill, and you will save thousands of dollars over the lifetime of your windows.
In addition to the return on investment through utility cost-saving measures, installation of energy efficient windows can result in a $200 tax credit when filing your taxes at year end. This will help offset the costs accrued during your upgrade, and with easy financing, you can afford new windows no matter what your budget is!
For Energy Star certified windows in Columbus, Ohio, contact Able Roof today!
