Energy-efficient windows are windows that help to reduce the need to use artificial heating and cooling in homes. They are specially designed to reduce the impact of outdoor temperatures, such that the indoor temperature is not overridden. As a result, the house does not have to rely on the HVAC excessively for heating or cooling the home.
Over the years, technology has improved and its impact is felt also in the building construction industry. This is why most of the materials on the market these days are energy-efficient, to help cut down on the energy need of households. If the windows in your house are not energy-efficient, you can change them to energy-efficient replacement windows on the market.
What Factors Make Windows Energy-efficient
Energy-efficient windows are treated or designed to block out most of the heat coming from the sun and cold from outside the building. Meanwhile, it should be noted that not all windows are energy-efficient. Some factors make windows energy-efficient. Some of what makes windows energy-efficient include the following:
1. Low Emissivity (Low-E) Glass
Low-E glass is coated with a transparent coating that helps reduce the amount of heat passing through the glass while letting light through. The coating brings down the glass’s U-value, which is the measurement of how efficiently a window blocks non-solar heat loss or gain. A window is more energy-efficient according to how low its U-value is.
2. Double Glazing
Double glazed windows are energy-efficient because their lower all kinds of heat transfer. Double glazing refers to a window design with two sheets of glass and argon gas between them to prevent heat transfer. This type of structural design of windows increases their efficiency against heat and cold. The ideal gap between the glasses should be 10-20 mm with argon gas filled in-between. The wider the gap, the higher the window’s efficiency (U-value).
3. Window Frames
The material used for framing windows also plays a crucial role in improving windows’ efficiency. Window frames that have low U-value help reduce the overall window’s U-value. Window frames made from uPVC, timber, and composite materials offer better insulation quality and thermal performance.
4. Weather Seals
Air tries to escape from or enter the home through little spaces around windows and doors. As a result, weather seals are installed around frames and sashes to prevent air escape from the home or intrusion from outside. Windows seals are necessary to improve the energy efficiency of windows.
5. Energy Rating Scheme
Windows are rated on the scale of 0 – 10 stars, which describes their performance regarding energy efficiency. The more stars a window has, the better is its performance. Consequently, when planning to buy replacement windows, check the number of stars the window has. This will ensure that you get the best value for your money.
