What Are the Best Energy Efficient Windows for Your Home?

Is your home’s energy efficiency up to par? If not, you may want to consider investing in some new windows. But with so many different options on the market, how do you know which are the best for your home? Here’s a guide to some of the most popular energy efficient window types.

What Are Energy Efficient Windows?

Energy efficient windows are designed to reduce the amount of heat transferred between the inside and outside of a home. In the summer, this can help to keep cool air in and hot air out, reducing the need for air conditioning. In the winter, energy-efficient windows help to keep heat from escaping, making it easier to maintain a comfortable temperature. 

There are a variety of factors that contribute to a window’s energy efficiency, including the type of glass used, the frame material, and the Argon gas filling. Energy-efficient windows are an important part of creating a comfortable and sustainable home.

Why Are They Needed?

Energy efficient windows are needed because traditional windows let in a lot of heat and sunlight. This can create problems in the summertime when the windows are open and the air conditioning is on, and in the winter when the windows are closed and the heating is on. Energy efficient windows allow the proper amount of heat and light into the room, while also keeping out cold weather and noise.

Benefits, Costs And Savings

Most people think of windows as a way to let in the fresh air and sunshine, but they can also be used to save energy. Energy efficient windows offer several benefits, including:

• Reducing Energy Bill / Electricity Bill
• Maintaining The Temperature (High/Low)

Reducing Energy Bill / Electricity Bill

One of the best ways to reduce energy bills and save electricity is to install energy efficient windows. Energy efficient windows use less energy to operate, which reduces your monthly electricity bill. In addition, they also have a lifespan that is much longer than traditional windows, which means less maintenance and cost in the future. Additionally, they often provide better insulation and lower noise levels, making them popular in colder climates.

Maintaining The Temperature (High/Low)

Keeping your home or office comfortable in the summer and winter months is important. However, it can be expensive to run your air conditioner or heaters every day. This is where energy efficient windows come in handy. By using them, you can save a significant amount of money on your monthly utility bill. Not to mention, energy efficient windows also help keep your home or office cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

Tips For Choosing An Efficient Window

When looking to upgrade your windows, it is important to be mindful of a few things. For one, you’ll want to make sure about the window frames, glass and the material used. Let’s discuss them in-depth below.

Window Frames to Incorporate:

One of the most important features of an energy efficient window is the window frame. A well-made frame will help to keep the windows free from air leaks and maximise the insulation value of your window. You should consider frames made from:

• Vinyl
• Wood
• Aluminium

Vinyl

If you’re looking to save energy and money, you should consider replacing your windows with vinyl windows. Vinyl windows are a great option because they’re energy efficient and affordable. They also offer plenty of protection from the elements, and they can last for many years without needing to be replaced. Plus, they’re easy to install, so you won’t have to spend a lot of time on the project.

Wood

Window frames made of wood are an excellent option for energy efficient windows. The reason is that they are very thermally efficient. That means they keep your house warm in the winter and cool in the summer. They also have a high R-value which means they resist heat loss. Additionally, wooden window frames are sturdy and can last for many years without rotting or splitting.

Aluminium

Aluminium is a great material for energy efficient windows. It is lightweight and can be easily manufactured into frames. It also has a high thermal conductivity, so it can allow heat to escape from the house quickly. This makes it a good choice for windows that are in direct sunlight or close to the heating and cooling systems.

Glass Types to Consider:

There are a few different types of glass that can be used for energy-efficient windows such as:

• U-Value
• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) 
• Glazing
• Low-E Glass Coating
• Pane Number
• Gas Filled

U-Value

The most important factor to consider when choosing a type of glass is the U-value. U-values indicate how much air a window can block out. Low-U-values allow more air to pass through, which means that the window will require more energy to keep cool. High-U-values mean that less air can pass through, which means that the window will require less energy to keep cool which makes it a good choice for energy efficient windows.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)

Photo by mykukun

SHGC measures the amount of heat that is allowed into a room through windows. Low SHGC values mean that the window will allow in a lot of heat, which could result in an overheating of the home or office. High SHGC values mean that the energy efficient window will restrict the amount of heat that enters a room, which can save on energy costs.

Glazing

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Photo by droylsden glass

There are a few different types of glazing that can be used in energy efficient windows to achieve different energy efficiencies. Low-E glass is best for warm climates because it allows more heat and light into the house, while high-E glass blocks more heat and is better for cold climates. There is also tri-layer glazing, which is made up of three separate sheets of glass that work together to block different amounts of heat and light.

Low-E Glass Coating

Low-E glass is a type of glass that has a special coating that helps to keep energy in. This is important because it can help to reduce your overall energy bill. Low-E glass also helps to keep heat out in the winter and in the summer, it helps to prevent the energy efficient window sfrom becoming foggy.

Pane Number

The pane number is the most important factor to consider when choosing a window type for your energy efficient windows. Pane numbers range from 1 to 12, and the higher the number, the more energy efficient the window is. For example, a pane number of 6 is twice as energy efficient as a pane number of 2.

Gas Filled

Gas filled glasses have a small quantity of gas like propane or natural gas to heat the glass while it is being manufactured. inside the glass, which makes them less expensive and easier to install. They work best in moderate climates, where heat from the sun doesn’t cause the window to fog up. 

Energy-Efficient Window Materials:

Another important thing you can do to save energy is to make sure your windows are energy-efficient. There are a variety of materials that can be used to make your windows energy-efficient such as:

• Aluminium
• Vinyl
• Fibreglass

Aluminium

Aluminium is a popular choice for energy efficient window materials because it is lightweight and easy to transport. It also has good thermal conductivity, which means that it can transfer heat quickly from inside the house to the outside. This makes it a good choice for windows that are used frequently or windows that open onto a patio or balcony.

Vinyl

Vinyl is energy efficient and it is a synthetic material that is made from plastic and heat-treated to make it resistant to weathering and decay. It also has a high tensile strength, which means it can hold up well to being scratched or damaged. Vinyl is a relatively new material for windows, but it’s quickly becoming the go-to choice for energy efficient windows.

Fibreglass

Fibreglass is a strong and lightweight material that is resistant to weathering and decay. This makes it a great choice for windows that will be exposed to the elements, such as windows in the roof of a car. Fibreglass also has a high thermal resistance, meaning that it can handle high temperatures without shattering. This makes it a good choice for window panels that will be used to control heat or air conditioning in a building.

Look At Some of The Best Energy-Efficient Windows for Your Home

Conclusion

Windows are an important part of any home. Not only do they provide natural light and ventilation, but they can also play a role in your home’s energy efficiency. If you’re in the market for new windows, it’s important to understand the different types of energy efficient windows available and which ones are best for your home. Here is a look at some of the most popular types of energy-efficient windows and what you need to know about them.

Frequently Asked Questions