Energy-efficient windows improve home energy efficiency and can reduce your utility bills. They also help make your house more comfortable, no matter what the weather’s like.
They use multiple panes of Low-E glass with a special coating that blocks UV and infrared rays from entering your home. They are often filled with argon gas to reduce heat loss.
1. Lower Energy Consumption
Windows that are ENERGY STAR certified reduce the amount of energy your home uses, which can lower your energy bills and make a positive impact on our planet. Window savings vary based on your location, the type of windows you choose and your utility rates.
For a window to be ENERGY STAR certified, it must meet the U-Factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) requirements for your specific climate zone. For example, for a window that gets direct sunlight in Florida, you need a SHGC of 0.25 or less and a U-Factor of 0.40 or less.
Frame materials are a big factor in determining energy efficiency, and many manufacturers combine different types of frame material to achieve the best combination. Wood, vinyl, aluminum, composites, and fiberglass are some of the most common materials.
2. Reduced Maintenance
Purchasing Energy-efficient windows Waldo FL is a great way to keep your home looking and feeling nice while also saving money on your utility bills. They’ll help to keep your home warmer during the winter and cooler during the summer, reducing your energy consumption by 10% to 30%.
You’ll also find that energy efficient windows require less maintenance than traditional ones. This is due to the insulating properties of these windows.
This translates to a reduced risk of mildew and other moisture-related issues, making your life much easier. Additionally, there’s no need to constantly wipe down your windows, since they’ll be cleaner.
When shopping for new windows, make sure to choose a company with experience installing energy-efficient products. This will ensure that your windows are properly installed and perform as intended. You should also request references from previous customers. These will give you an idea of the quality of work and customer service you can expect from the installation company.
3. Reduced Condensation
Energy-efficient windows are built with multiple panes of low-emissivity (Low-E) glass that blocks UV and infrared rays from the sun, a feature that’s hugely beneficial for Florida homes. They also contain insulated glass units and frames, spacers to keep the panes apart, and argon gas fill between panes to block the movement of warm air.
Condensation, however, isn’t always a good thing, especially in cold weather. It can cause spots on ceilings and walls, peeling paint and rotting wood, as well as provide the moisture needed for mold to grow.
To prevent condensation, homeowners should control indoor humidity by improving ventilation. This includes adding exhaust systems to high-humidity rooms, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
Likewise, homeowners should consider installing an interior dehumidifier to control excess moisture in basements and other damp spaces. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends a relative humidity between 30 percent and 50 percent to maintain comfort levels while preventing mold growth and other moisture damage.
4. Increased Home Value
As homeowners and prospective buyers are forced to spend more on electricity, they are looking for energy efficient homes and upgrades that will help them save money. One of the best ways to do this is by making sure you have energy-efficient windows installed.
The most efficient windows use multiple panes of low-emissivity (low-E) glass, which has a coating that blocks UV and infrared rays while allowing visible light to pass through. They also feature insulated glass units and frames, spacers to keep the panes apart, and argon gas fills between them to further reduce heat transfer.
If you are in the market for new windows or are considering putting your house on the market, the most efficient ones are the most cost-effective and will make your home more attractive to potential buyers. In fact, a recent study found that high-efficiency windows have a 68.6% return on investment. To make the most of your money, you should consider a full-service window replacement company like USA Window Pros.