The energy performance ratings of your new replacement windows are important things to consider when you’re planning to replace your old hardware. The NFRC has made a handy label for homeowners like you, but it’s still a bit tricky to understand if it’s the first time you’ve looked at it.
In this post, our window experts at Renewal by Andersen® of Long Island discuss what each NFRC measurement tells you about your windows.
U-Factor
This is the orange colored box in the label and measures how well the window keeps heat from escaping from the inside of a room. As a general rule, the lower the U-Factor, the better a product is at keeping heat in. The average range for U-factor is between 0.20 to 1.20. Always look for low numbers for the best results during your windows installation project.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient
The numbers in the purple box measure how well the window can resist unwanted heat gain. This is especially important during summer when the heat can take a toll on the window frame itself. The average range is between 0-1, but just like the U-factor, always look for low numbers. It’s rare to see a completely zero solar heat gain coefficient. What you’ll most likely see are decimals.
Visible Transmittance
The numbers in the green box measure how well the window effectively lights your home with daylight. This is an important money-saving measurement, and you’ll want higher numbers for this. The range is between 0-1, so expect a few decimals here, too.
Air Leakage
The numbers in the dark blue box measures how much air “naturally” enters through the window and into the room when closed. The range is between 0.1 to 0.3, and you’ll want to look at low numbers for a weathertight window.
Whether you’re looking for double-hung or sliding windows, Renewal by Andersen® of Long Island will install you the most energy-efficient hardware that’s guaranteed to have high energy performance ratings. Call us today (866) 609-5033 to learn more about our services. We install replacement windows throughout Massapequa.
