Windows and doors are subjected to some general wear and tear, which is why they should be replaced occasionally with better and more efficient ones. Getting these updates done by yourself seems like a rewarding task, but it may be daunting for you if you need to be made aware of all the technicalities. For example, if you are replacing windows in your home, you need to learn about window replacement energy star labels to make smarter decisions for your home. In this blog, we will discuss everything you need to know about window replacement energy star labels:
Window energy efficiency rating Canada
Whenever you install your windows, you want to make sure you are making the best decision for your home regarding energy efficiency. First, check the window energy efficiency rating to ensure the windows you selected for your home are energy efficient. Understanding window energy efficiency ratings in Canada can help you compare various windows and choose the best one for your home. This rating system is based on several energy performance factors and helps consumers identify the products with better energy efficiency ratings.
Energy star energy rating
The energy star energy rating is a metric that helps consumers identify windows with the highest energy efficiency ratings. A window’s energy star rating is based on its U-factor, solar heat gain coefficient, visible transmittance, air leakage and condensation resistance factor. The higher the U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient, the lower the air leakage and condensation resistance factor, and the higher the energy star rating.
U-Factor
U-Factor measures the rate at which heat is lost from a window. In addition, it measures how well the window blocks out heat. The lower the U-Factor rating, the better the window keeps the heat in, making it more energy efficient. U-Factors for windows rated by energy star range from 0.20 to 1.20, and you must look for the lowest possible number.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measures how much solar radiation a window can let through and how much heat the window can absorb from the sun’s rays. This is important because if you live in a warm climate, you want to be sure that your windows won’t absorb too much heat, making it difficult to keep your home cool. The SHGC rating is typically expressed as a number between 0 and 1; the higher the number, the more solar radiation the window can let through and the more heat it can absorb.
Visible Transmittance
Visible Transmittance (VT) measures how much visible light passes through a window. The higher the VT number, the more natural light can enter your home and reduce the need for electric lighting. As such, windows with higher VT ratings can save you money on energy costs. VT is expressed as a number between 0 and 1, and windows with a VT of .70 or higher are eligible for the energy star label.
Air Leakage
Air leakage occurs when outside air enters and inside air exits a home through openings in the building envelope, such as windows and doors. For example, it can occur due to improperly sealed windows or gaps in caulking. The Air Leakage Rating measures the rate of air leakage.
A lower Air Leakage Rating indicates a better-performing window in reducing air leakage. For instance, a window with an Air Leakage Rating of 0.30 or less is considered an Energy Star-certified window.
When it comes to window replacement, it’s essential to consider the snergy star rating of your windows. Understanding U-Factor, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, Visible Transmittance, and Air Leakage can help you decide which windows best suit your needs. A window with an energy star label means that it meets the criteria for energy efficiency and has been tested to ensure its performance. Selecting windows with a high energy star rating can improve your home’s energy efficiency and reduce energy costs. We can help you choose the best window for your home. Contact us for more information.
