The windows in your home are extremely important. Not only do they affect the way your home looks from the outside (enhancing curb appeal), they also affect the comfort level inside your humble abode in terms of temperature and even humidity. If your home needs new windows, you are likely going to be faced with many decisions, in order to choose the style that’s right for you. When choosing the correct type of window for your home, there are many factors to consider. In this blog, we will discuss about Rating and U-Factor of Energy Star Rated Casement Windows.
To help make your decision a little easier, here are common questions that homeowners have and necessary information that is useful to have on-hand when you are shopping for new windows:
One of the most important factors to consider when shopping for new windows is energy efficiency. By being ENERGY STAR rated/certified, you can rest assured knowing that your utility costs will likely be lowered and you don’t need to worry about air leakage and condensation resistance inside your home.
How do I know if my windows are ENERGY STAR rated?
All you need to look for is the official label on each individual window. This label signifies that your windows are one of the best energy performers on the market. In order to become certified, each ENERGY STAR product (including windows) must be tested, certified and verified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC).
One of the best performing windows for energy efficiency are casement windows. As a result of their warm-edge spacers, these windows generally have minimal air leakage.
What are casement windows?
Offering a contemporary design, energy star rated casement windows offer an unobstructed view of the outdoors. Suitable for any room inside your home, these versatile windows will simply open and close with the turn of a handle. They can also be installed in pairs or one window can sit by itself. The sash on this window closes by pressing against the frame, leading to minimal air leaking through the window pane.
Once you have selected the right type of window for your home, and have come to the realization that they are indeed ENERGY STAR certified, you can now pay close attention to that window’s performance ratings. This information can be found on the NFRC label on your window.
Once I have located the NFRC label, what exactly should I be looking for?
Five performance rating categories are taken into consideration for ENERGY STAR certification. These include: U-Factor, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), Air Leakage (AL), Visible Transmittance (VT) and Condensation Resistance.
One of the most important performance ratings is the U-Factor. This measures the rate of heat transfer and determines how well the window insulates from outside elements. Generally speaking, U-factor values will range from 0.25 to 1.25. They are measured in Btu/h·ft²·°F.
What number should I ideally be looking for when it comes to U-Factor?
The lower, the better. For superior energy performance, windows with a U-factor of 0.25 or less are ideal.
Do you need a free in-home estimate?
At Ecotech Windows and Doors we provide a free in-home windows and doors installation estimate. Call us today on 1-888-880-6827.
