How Do Energy-Efficient Windows Work?

If you have been shopping for windows for a while now, you may be familiar with the term, energy-efficient windows.

The name itself makes it evident because these windows are made to save on energy and money.

Fortunately, there are many windows available today that are energy-efficient.

When the energy-efficient components or parts of the window are combined, you’ll surely decrease the costs of heating and cooling appliances.

But how do energy-efficient windows work? If you want to know about them, read this guide.

What are Energy Efficient Windows?

You’re probably wondering how energy-efficient windows work.

Windows, in general, maintain the temperature inside your home to attain comfort.

However, for energy-efficient windows, they offer more than just that.

During the colder months, energy-efficient windows prevent the drafts and cold air from penetrating to keep your home warm.

For warmer months, they allow ventilation to cool down your home.

In short, energy-efficient windows can be used for all seasons.

By using them in your home, you expect to use less air conditioner or heater.

How are Energy-Efficient Windows Rated?

Energy-efficient windows have different insulating properties according to their value or rate.

Before you consider buying a new window, it’s essential to understand how different rating work:

U-Value (or U-Factor)

This rating indicates the amount of heat that flows through the window.

Lower U-value windows mean they have a higher insulating property.

It’s recommended to choose a window with a U-value between 0.25 and 1.25.

But if you want to avail the maximum energy efficiency, you can buy a window with a rating of 0.5.

R-Value

R-value, on the other hand, measures the ability of the window to ward off the heat flow.

Higher R-value means a higher insulating property.

Energy Star

In some countries, some energy-efficient windows are labeled as Energy Star.

This means it has been approved by the U.S. Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Energy to meet energy efficiency standards.

With an Energy Star labeled window, it can reduce electricity consumption by at least 15%.

Hence, it is an eco-friendly choice for homeowners seeking to save on energy and the earth.

Types of Energy-Efficient Windows

Aside from rating, the windows have different materials that feature insulation.

These are the following:

1. Low-E Glass

By nature, glass absorbs and transfers reasonably easily, which can be problematic if your windows are made of such material.

However, there is a type of glass that can block out the sun’s heat and harmful UV rays.

This type of glass is called Low-E glass.

It can block the sun’s UV rays – both UV-A and UV-B radiation for up to 99.99 percent.

As a result, it helps to reduce the heat absorbed by your windows.

Low-E glass has many options to choose from: tints, multiple glasses, and even reflective coatings.

The variety of options can vary depending on the manufacturer.

Consult Manny’s Glass Door Repair & Replacement to choose the best Low-E glass available in the market.

2. Double and Triple Pane Windows

There are many options of windows available today aside from the usual single pane window.

Unfortunately, single pane panels are excellent heat transmitters, which is bad news for the summer months

Fortunately, double and triple-pane windows are available in the market today.

These windows usually have two to three glass panes with gas-filled insulating properties to lessen the absorption of heat through the window.

3. Energy-Efficient Window Spacers

Today’s windows use a thermal-efficient spacer on frames made of low-conductive materials that work against condensation and cold drafts.

When you combine it with double and triple pane glass or Low-E glass, you’ll get an exceptional energy-efficient window.

4. Energy-Efficient Materials

Aside from the energy-efficient windows above, other types of window materials offer higher insulating properties.

One of them is the fiberglass windows.

It provides superior energy efficiency compared to other types of windows.

By nature, fiberglass is a low-conducting material that is very well-suited to use during hot or cold temperatures.

It reduces the airflow to enter inside your home, which can save you money on energy bills.

Do You Need an Energy Efficient Window?

How energy-efficient windows works depend on the several materials that comprise them.

Hence, they are excellent in regulating your home’s temperature, which allows you to use lesser heating or cooling appliances in the long run.

Suppose you’re the type of homeowner who wants to save the environment and on bills, an energy-efficient window is the best choice for you.

While it may be quite an investment, you can save more on the expenses in the long run.

To know more, you can ask Manny’s Glass Door Repair & Replacement.

We will answer everything you need to learn more about energy-efficient windows and the installation process.

We offer window replacement, window repair, window screen replacement, and door repair services.

Call us now if you’re in Richmond Hill, Vaughan, and Markham!