The significance of energy-efficient windows cannot be overstated in today’s world. This means that the importance of energy-efficient windows is exceptionally high and should be considered. In today’s context, energy efficiency is a crucial concern due to various factors such as rising energy costs, climate change, and environmental conservation efforts. Energy-efficient windows are essential to reducing bills, preventing drafts and air leakage. By incorporating advanced technologies and design features, these windows are specifically engineered to minimize the transfer of heat or cold between the inside and outside of a building. As a result, they help to regulate indoor temperatures more efficiently, reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling. This, in turn, leads to significant energy savings and lower utility bills for homeowners and building occupants. In this blog, we will discuss window energy rating and why does it matter.
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Furthermore, energy-efficient windows are effective in preventing drafts and air leakage. Currents occur when gaps or openings in windows allow unwanted air to enter or escape from a building. By sealing these gaps and minimizing air leakage, energy-efficient windows create a more comfortable indoor environment by reducing drafts and maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the year.
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The ENERGY STAR
The ENERGY STAR certification serves as a primary method for rating the energy efficiency of products. Widely recognized and utilized in both the United States and Canada, this vital standard is applied to various products to indicate their level of energy efficiency.
However, what exactly is the Energy Star certification? How is this rating determined, and why should it matter to homeowners in Canada? To shed light on these questions, we have prepared this guide to provide an understanding of what Window Energy rating entails and its significance.
What Is Window Energy Rating?
Energy Star is a symbol supported by the United States government in collaboration with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Its purpose is to assist consumers in recognizing products that meet specific efficiency criteria, empowering them to make informed choices that lead to cost savings. Since its establishment in 1992, Energy Star has gained recognition among Fortune 500 companies and has saved five trillion kilowatt hours in the United States alone.
What Makes Energy Star Windows Energy Efficient?
With 90% of consumers familiar with and recognizing the Energy Star symbol, it is an invaluable tool for seeking out Ontario’s most energy-efficient windows. However, what sets these certified windows apart and makes them exceptional?
Energy Star products are crafted using low-maintenance materials specifically engineered for optimal insulation and durability.
Energy Star windows feature high-quality Low-E glass, which serves multiple purposes. It effectively reflects infrared light, helping retain heat indoors during winter and keeping the interior cool during summer. Additionally, it acts as a barrier against harmful ultraviolet (UV) light, safeguarding upholstery such as seats and carpets from damage.
Certified windows often incorporate a unique gas, such as argon or krypton, between the panes. These gases, which are odorless, colorless, and non-toxic, offer superior insulation properties compared to regular air.
Furthermore, a warm edge spacer is employed at the connection point between the glass panes and the frame. This spacer ensures the appropriate spacing between the panes while providing insulation at the edges, effectively minimizing heat transfer between them.
Also Read: Changes Coming To The ENERGY STAR Program in 2023
How Are Window Energy Ratings Measured?
Energy Star window ratings are determined based on various factors and attributes. For instance, the certification requirements for a washing machine mandate a 25% reduction in energy usage and a 33% decrease in water consumption compared to standard washing machines available in the market.
The energy ratings for windows undergo testing according to the latest Canadian Standards Association (CSA) A440.2 standard.
In addition, certain products available in Canada may undergo inspections based on the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) standards. The NFRC, a non-profit organization headquartered in the United States, offers energy performance ratings specifically for windows, doors, and skylights, providing consumers with valuable information.
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According to Natural Resources Canada, energy performance ratings are assessed based on the following criteria:
U-Factor
The U-factor is a measurement that quantifies the rate at which heat transfers from warmer areas to colder areas through a window, door, or skylight. It specifically focuses on heat transfer and does not consider solar heat gain. The U-factor is an essential indicator of the insulation efficiency of a building component. The U-factor is expressed in watts per square meter Kelvin (W/m²K). This unit represents the amount of heat energy (in watts) that passes through one square meter of the window, door, or skylight for every degree Kelvin of the temperature difference between the interior and exterior. In simpler terms, it measures how well a window can prevent heat from escaping or entering a building.
U-factor values typically range from 0.25 to 1.25 W/m²K. The lower the U-factor value, the better the performance of the window, door, or skylight insulation. A lower U-factor indicates that the product has better resistance to heat transfer and provides higher insulation efficiency. For example, a window with a U-factor of 0.25 W/m²K suggests that it offers excellent insulation, which is highly effective at reducing heat loss or gain. On the other hand, a window with a U-factor of 1.25 W/m²K has less insulation capability, allowing more heat transfer through the window.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)
The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) is a measurement that represents the fraction or proportion of solar radiation that passes through windows and is absorbed, subsequently releasing heat inside a house. It explains how effectively a window blocks or allows the sun’s heat to pass through.
The SHGC is expressed as a number between 0 and 1 or a percentage between 0% and 100%. A lower SHGC rating indicates that the window has superior shading capability and blocks a more significant portion of the sun’s heat from entering the building. This is particularly beneficial during hot summer months when minimizing heat gain can help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and reduce the reliance on cooling systems.
On the other hand, a higher SHGC rating suggests that the window allows a more significant amount of solar heat to pass through and be absorbed by the building. This can be advantageous during the cold winter because capturing the sun’s heat can help warm the interior space and reduce heating requirements.
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Centre of Glass Rating
The statement suggests that the rating being referred to, without explicitly mentioned, focuses on evaluating the energy efficiency of the glass component in windows, doors, and skylights. It indicates that this particular rating is dedicated explicitly to assessing the performance of the glass itself in terms of energy efficiency. The glass component of windows, doors, and skylights determines their energy efficiency. Glass properties, such as its composition, coatings, and thickness, can significantly impact how it interacts with heat and light.
By evaluating the energy efficiency of the glass component, various factors related to its performance can be considered. This may include its ability to insulate against heat transfer, control solar heat gain, minimize UV radiation, and enhance overall thermal comfort. Assessing the energy efficiency of the glass component involves evaluating its thermal properties, such as the U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), which we discussed earlier. These factors help determine how well the glass resists heat transfer and regulates the amount of solar heat entering a building.
Visible Transmittance (VT)
Visible transmittance (VT) is an optical parameter that measures the fraction of visible light that can pass through the glazing material of a window. Unlike the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), which focuses on solar radiation, VT quantifies explicitly the amount of visible light that can penetrate through the window. A higher VT value indicates that a window allows more natural light to enter a building. This means that windows with higher VT ratings will enable more daylight to pass through, illuminating the interior spaces with natural sunlight. This can have several advantages for homeowners and building occupants.
Firstly, ample natural light enhances the overall visual comfort within a space. It reduces the reliance on artificial lighting during daylight hours, leading to potential energy savings and lower electricity consumption. Natural light provides a more pleasant and inviting environment, improving occupants’ overall aesthetics and well-being. Moreover, optimizing daylighting through intelligent home design can contribute to energy conservation. By strategically placing windows and utilizing glazing materials with higher VT ratings, it is possible to maximize the utilization of natural light. This reduces the need for artificial lighting and, in turn, lowers energy consumption.
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Why Are Energy Star Windows Preferred in Canada?
The core purpose of Energy Star in Canada is to help the country save energy by encouraging manufacturers to produce “greener” products through “greener” solutions. However, consumers have been the biggest beneficiaries of the whole program.
Also Read: How to Finance Your Windows and Doors Project in 5 Easy Steps
4 Benefits of an Energy Star Window
Windows play a significant role in every home, enabling control over natural lighting and indoor temperature while offering clear views of the surrounding environment.
Certified windows undergo rigorous testing to minimize heat loss and air leakage.
Here are some advantages of using Energy Star-certified window:
1. Cost Savings
Certified windows contribute to significant monthly energy bill savings. With enhanced efficiency, these windows and doors reduce the energy needed for cooling and heating your home. Energy Star products can lower energy costs by approximately 12% compared to non-certified windows. The savings will vary based on local climate conditions, home design, and utility rates.
2. Increased Comfort
You can achieve a consistently comfortable temperature throughout your home, even in extreme weather conditions, by utilizing top-notch windows, doors, and other products. Non-energy-efficient windows tend to draw heat away from individuals nearby. In contrast, Energy Star windows prevent heat loss by maintaining a warm surface during cold outdoor temperatures. Similarly, certified windows effectively block out excessive heat, ensuring a cool interior during hot summer.
3. Home Protection
The windows in your home can expose the interior to potential damage from sunlight. However, certified windows feature a special coating that safeguards your interior against harmful ultraviolet (UV) light.
Sunlight can cause harm to wood floors, curtains, and personal belongings, resulting in color fading and deterioration. Energy Star windows provide protection, preserving the color and integrity of these items over time.
4. Tax Credit
In Canada, homeowners can receive an energy efficiency tax credit that amounts to 10% of the cost of the product.
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Get the Best Energy-Efficient Windows with Ecotech
Are you considering upgrading to energy-efficient windows in Ontario? With EcoTech Windows & Doors, you can enjoy substantial energy savings and lower your bills. Contact us now to speak with our knowledgeable team and find the perfect windows for your home.
Conclusion –
In conclusion, the Window Energy rating is vital for Canadian homeowners seeking energy-efficient solutions. Its recognition and credibility enable consumers to make informed choices, save money, and contribute to a greener environment. Energy Star-certified products, such as windows, offer numerous benefits, including enhanced insulation, UV protection, and reduced energy costs. By prioritizing energy efficiency, homeowners can create comfortable living spaces while positively impacting their wallets and the planet. Make the smart choice by embracing Energy Star-rated products and enjoy their rewards.
