Windows are rated in a range of categories that measure their energy efficiency. If you are deciding on windows for your home, extra emphasis should be placed on varying ratings based on the climate the home is located in. For example, if you are purchasing for replacement windows in Phoenix, Arizona, a sunny and warm climate, the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient is very likely the most crucial rating to think about. Other factors, such as the orientation of a window to the sun and the amount of shade present should be taken into account.
The U.S. Government's Energy Star program is meant to make it convenient for individuals to identify energy efficient products and practices that will save them money and protect the environment. The Energy Star program scores over sixty products, including windows. Energy Star certification makes it easy for individuals to ensure they are getting energy efficient replacement windows.
All Energy Star replacement windows are rated in five areas however Energy Star qualification is solely based on the U-Factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient. These ratings are also the categories used to calculate if a window qualifies for the IRS Energy Tax Credit.
U-Factor
Measures the rate of heat transfer and illustrates how efficiently a window insulates. The lower the U-Factor rating, the better a window insulates. The window U-Factor includes the thermal qualities of the frame as well as the glazing.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)
Calculates the solar energy transmitted by the window and denotes how effectively a window inhibits heat caused by sunlight. The lower the SHGC, the less solar heat a window transmits.
Visable Transmittance (VT)
Determines the amount of light a window permits through. The higher the Visable Transmittance, the more light you see.
Air Leakage (AL)
Measures the pace at which air passes through joints in a window. Air Leakage is determined in cubic feet of air passing through one square foot of window area in a minute. The smaller the Air Leakage value, the less air that is leaked.
Condensation Resistance
Measures how well a window prevents water build-up. The greater the Condensation Resistance factor, the less condensation build-up a window allows.
Other Replacement Window Ratings
There are some alternative ratings which are not included on the NFRC Energy Star label however they are helpful and appear on some windows.
Light to Solar Gain
The ratio of VT (see above) to SHGC (see above) measures the amount of light transmitted without adding heat. A greater number means that more light is transmitted without adding heat.
R-Value
R-Value was established as a way to rate the insulation value of something. It determines conductivity and signifies the resistance to heat flow. A high R-Value signifies a better insulated window. Most windows today are measured using U-Factor (see above).
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