When you’re shopping for replacement windows, look for energy efficiency features that will make your investment worth it. They help reduce cold air leaks and heat transfer to keep indoor temperatures regulated, which can save on heating and cooling costs.
The space between the glass panes in double- and triple-pane windows can be filled with gases like argon or krypton, which further improves insulation. Some windows also include UV protection, which safeguards your furnishings from fading and preserves interior comfort.
Low-E glass
Low-E glass is a window technology that reduces heat loss and helps homes stay comfortable. Its low emissivity coating prevents incoming sunlight from absorbing and radiating heat, which significantly reduces energy costs. The coating also protects furniture and carpet from fading and damage due to harmful UV rays.
A double-pane window with a low-E coating can reduce glare up to 25% compared to standard uncoated windows. Toulmin Kitchen and Bath offers a wide selection of double-pane and triple-pane windows with low-E glass to suit every climate.
To maximize energy efficiency, choose a double-coated window that reflects the long-wave infrared radiation found in the sun’s spectrum and absorbs a small amount of passive solar heat to keep buildings warmer. In warm climates, opt for a coating that reflects short-wave infrared radiation to help keep your home cooler. You can further boost your window’s energy-efficiency by adding additional features, like a krypton or argon gas fill to improve insulation.
UV protection
Energy-efficient windows help homeowners reduce their energy costs by slowing thermal transfer. They are available in many different shapes and sizes. Some are fabricated from modern materials that enhance efficiency and resist issues like rot. They also feature a tight seal that minimizes air leakage, which allows homeowners to maintain a comfortable indoor environment during Birmingham’s hot summers and cold winters.
They may contain a coating that reflects ultraviolet (UV) rays, which protects interior surfaces from fading. This is a useful feature in Birmingham, where sunlight can cause furniture and flooring to fade over time.
Other energy-efficient features include dual or triple panes, which increase insulation by blocking UV rays and other heat sources. In addition, they often use inert gas, such as argon or Krypton, between the layers of glass to further reduce heat transfer. The insulating gas increases the window’s R-value, which is rated according to the climate. This is a crucial factor when choosing the right energy efficient windows for your home.
Insulated frames
The frame of a window plays an important role in reducing energy costs. It should be durable and resistant to heat changes, as well as outside noise. It should also offer thermal breaks to prevent escaping heat from your home. These breaks are typically made from insulated plastic strips that separate the frame and sash from each other. This reduces the energy loss of your windows, saving you money on your heating and cooling bills.
Choosing the right window frames for your Birmingham AL home can help lower energy bills. High-quality windows are insulated to prevent heated or cooled air from escaping, allowing your HVAC system to work less. They also block harmful UV rays that can fade carpet and furniture over time. When buying new windows, look for a U-factor and R-value that are appropriate for your climate zone. The higher the value, the more efficient the window is. It should also have a low solar gain factor.
Energy Star certification
The material that a window is made from plays an important role in its energy efficiency. From old-school single-pane wonders to today’s double- or triple-glazed options, different materials offer varying levels of thermal protection. However, modern energy-efficient windows are most effective when they’re encased in an insulated glass package that combines Low-E and argon technology. This combination of features helps maximize window performance and ensures compliance with EPA ENERGY STAR certification standards.
The ENERGY STAR program has been working to reduce home energy costs, greenhouse gas emissions and climate change since 1992. ENERGY STAR-rated windows, doors and skylights are independently certified to ensure that they meet the high energy-efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Our ENERGY STAR-certified replacement windows use a variety of advanced technologies to minimize solar heat gain, UV rays and unwanted temperatures. The result is a better overall comfort and lower monthly energy bills. Our Intercept warm-edge spacer system extends the life of your window glass and reduces condensation build-up, while a nonreactive argon insulator prevents edge-to-glass temperature fluctuations that can lead to energy loss.