Energy Efficient Windows

What are Energy Efficient Windows?

These are unique solutions to the problem of heating and cooling at home. Generally, windows are installed so as to provide us with lighting, warmth, and cross-ventilation. Windows are also great additions when you want to improve the aesthetics of your home. There are added layers of insulation in energy efficient windows and this helps to prevent the escape of heat or cooled air.

Energy Efficient Window Types

There are various materials used to produce and finish energy efficient windows. The material you decide to use depends on your preference, style, and available budget. Some of them are detailed below.

Single-Glazed, Clear Glass Windows

This design allows unlimited transfer of energy. During times of extreme temperatures, heat loss and heat gain are extremely high. This also permits the highest level of daylight transmission. About 86% of the incident irradiance is transmitted while 90% of visible light is allowed.

Single-Glazed, Tinted Glass

Ideally, people use tinted glass because they want to reduce the solar heat gain. Even though they succeed at this, they also suffer from reduced visible light gained. When going for tinted glass, it is advisable to go for green or blue tints as they allow a higher level of visible light transmission. It is also good to note that its irradiance prevention feature might be beneficial during the summer, but it becomes a liability during winter.

Double-Glazed, Clear Glass

For this type of energy efficient window design, there are 2 lites of glass where the inner and outer layers are separated by an air gap. Compared to single-glazed designs, the insulating air space between the glass divides the heat loss by 2. Since it is not a tinted design, there will be a greater degree of allowance for the visible light transmitted.

Double-Glazed Tinted Glass

A clear inner layer is surrounded by 2 tinted lites of glass. Both layers are separated by an air gap. As usual, the heat loss is cut in half. The permissible transmission of solar heat is also down to about 63%. With this design, glare is greatly controlled and this is a very advantageous feature.

Double-Glazed, High-solar-gain Low-E Glass

This is a typical double-glazed glass with a special fill of gas. This design reduces the heat loss, however, the solar gain is allowed significantly. Homeowners who live in climates with high temperature often opt for this design of energy efficient windows. They are also used in some solar design projects.

Double-Glazed, Medium-solar-gain Low-E Glass

This is a similar design with a slight change in the solar gain. This is also referred to as spectrally selective low-E glass because they have the ability to minimize solar heat gain. There is also a very high level of visible light transmitted. This unique feature makes this design very versatile. They can be used in climates which experience excessive heat or cold.

Double-Glazed, Low-solar-gain Low-E Glass

If you live in an area where cold is predominant, this is the design for you! It has a unique ability to drastically reduce the solar heat gain without compromising on the admissibility of visible light. There are various designs available for you to choose from and some employ surfaces which seem slightly tinted.

Benefits of Energy Efficient Windows

You Save Money

A survey was carried out and it was found that an average of 12% of customers who install energy-efficient windows save up to $300 in a year. The government has plans on ground which aim to encourage the use of energy efficient appliances. To this end, they have provided tax credits for certain purchases and installations.

In order to enjoy this tax credit, you must meet the requirements stipulated by the ENERGY STAR program. The energy efficient window must also be installed in the residence of a taxpayer. You can receive up to 10% of the cost of purchase and it can amount to $200 for windows and skylights.

Comfort

Do you live in a noisy neighborhood? Are you constantly pissed off by the traffic? The sound of pets? Does the noise of children around you prevent you from achieving anything productive? Then, you’re in luck. The underlying technology of these windows which enable them to prevent sunlight also keeps noise out. So, cheer up! Comfort is nigh.

Fading is Eliminated

When there is constant exposure to sunlight, materials, and furniture in your home are prone to fading. This is a huge blemish as regards the aesthetics of your home. Your artwork, fabrics, wood, and even paint will enjoy protection from fading with energy efficient windows.

Lower Expenditure on HVAC

When you utilize energy efficient windows, you automatically get reduced bills for cooling and heating. This is because of the ability of these windows to reduce direct sunlight and heat loss. The percentage of visible light allowed also has an effect on the overall utility bill.

To schedule your free consultation with one of the experts from Sunshine Builders, Inc. call 877-824-4476