Energy efficient windows will reduce your heating and cooling bills. They’re also a smart choice for the environment, since reducing your energy consumption also reduces your carbon footprint. But just how energy efficient should your windows be, and how do you choose the right ones for your Cincinnati home? Here are some guidelines to follow as you shop.
Look for a Low U-Factor
The U-factor is measure of how much heat a window allows to pass through it. A high U-factor means a window does a poor job of blocking heat transfer — a lot of heat passes through it. A low U-factor means a window does a good job of blocking heat transfer — not much heat passes through it. A window with a low U-factor could also be said to be a good insulator.
So, what is a good U-factor to look for in a place like Cincinnati, where the winters can be bitter cold? Anything below 0.39 is decent, and the lower the better. The lower the U-factor, the more you will pay for a window, but the energy cost savings often make up for the increased up-front replacement cost.
Look for a High SHGC
Cincinnati homes are not just exposed to cold in the winter. When summer rolls in, you need some protection from the scorching heat so your air conditioning bills don’t climb too high. SHGC stands for solar heat gain coefficient. This is a measure of how well a window blocks heat from the sun. The higher the SHGC, the better job a window does at blocking heat. A SHGC between 0.42 and 0.63 is desirable in moderate climates.
Look for the Energy Star Label
A simpler way to tell whether or not a replacement window is energy efficient enough for your needs is to look for the Energy Star label. Energy Star examines a windows SHGC and U-factor before awarding its label. Renewal by Andersen is an Energy Star Partner, and in 2018, we were recognized as the Energy Star Partner of the Year. Our windows carry the blue Energy Star label and are excellent for keeping utility bills low, all year long.
Look at the Features
Another way to ascertain just how energy efficient replacement windows are is to consider the materials they are made from and the features they offer. At the very least, windows should have double-pane glass. The layer of air between the two pieces of glass greatly increases the insulating capacity of the windows, lowering the U-factor.
Low-e glass, like SmartSun™ glass, is another key energy-efficiency feature. This type of glass is specially coated to reflect heat waves, rather than allow them to pass through the glass. Finally, consider the sash and frame material. The material you choose should be a good insulator, and it should be durable so your windows don’t develop air leaks as they age. Fibrex® composite is a smart choice; it resists heat transfer and does not warp in the varied Cincinnati climate.
Energy efficiency is a key factor to look for in replacement windows. Pay close attention to the U-factor, SHGC, Energy Star label, and special features when shopping for windows. If your Cincinnati home is in need of new windows, contact Renewal by Andersen to schedule a free, in-home consultation. Our knowledgeable technicians can recommend the best, most efficient windows for you.
