Types of Windows That Increase Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a complicated equation. Everything from the glass to the frames affects thermal performance. And the energy-efficient window itself must be expertly installed for it to reach peak efficiency. Window labels and ratings offer up the information you need for comparing products. But certain window features impact energy efficiency that isn’t easily explained on a sticker.
Windows that increase energy efficiency
These six types of windows contain at least one characteristic that secretly helps boost their energy efficiency.
● Fixed Windows
Fixed picture windows don’t give any functionality. But it is a good thing when it comes to Energy Efficient Windows. Since you can’t open a picture window, you never break its airtight seal. No other window style can make that affirmation.
Fixed windows are an excellent solution for parts of your home where you don’t need ventilation. Or in window varieties and a wall of windows where the airtight design can help keep large expanses of glass from feeling drafty.
● Hinged Windows
Hinged windows are devised for ventilation. They pivot outward on a hinge with the wrench of a crank or push of your hand. This design presents a significant benefit over sliding open and closed windows. When closed, the single sash of a hinged window presses firmly against the frame. Sliding, double-hung, and single-hung windows have two belts slightly overlapping.
● Insulated Windows
For centuries single pane of glass was the standard in windows. Then, in the 20th century, something creative happened. Manufacturers found that adding another pane of glass gives extra insulation. In NFRC energy efficiency terms, it lowers both the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SGHC) and U-Factor.
Nowadays, insulated windows don’t just have additional panes of glass. Each window pane is separated by insulating gas, too. So triple-pane windows offer five layers of insulation — two more than dual-pane windows and four more than single-pane windows — helping you even more energy efficiency out of your windows.
● Lifestyle Series Windows
Lifestyle Series Windows were designed to deliver real-life solutions, one of the most significant considerations being energy efficiency. They are built with wood frames, which give natural insulation from the elements. Moreover, they offer triple-pane glass and several energy-saving features to make them 83% more energy efficient. These design components help Lifestyle Series windows meet or surpass ENERGY STAR guidelines.
● ENERGY STAR® Windows
While every window is labeled with energy performance ratings based on (NFRC) National Fenestration Rating Council testing, only the most energy-efficient windows earn the coveted blue sticker from ENERGY STAR.
ENERGY STAR windows are certified by the government and are based on performance ratings equal to NFRC. But note: ENERGY STAR certification is based on geography and climate, so a window that rates highly in the Southwest sun may not work as well in the cold of the Northeast.
Conclusion:
Wherever you live and whatever styles you love, there are numerous ways to make your windows more energy efficient. With the help of Replacement Windows in Arlington, Tx, you can choose the best types of windows for your home and customize them to maximize your house’s energy efficiency.
