How to Choose the Most Efficient Energy Star Windows for Your Home
Are your existing windows Energy Star windows? Are they the most energy-efficient windows for your home? If you are like most homeowners, you want to lower your energy costs, and windows that have been certified by Energy Star are the way to go when it comes to lowering heating and cooling costs.
In the following blog, we shall discuss how to choose the most energy-efficient windows for your home when it comes to windows replacement. Moreover, we will discuss the Energy Star guidelines.
Energy Star established a set of guidelines in the 1990s that would enable homeowners to purchase products that were more energy efficient for their homes. As they have proven to significantly lower energy costs for residents of the USA, these stars have since been adopted by Canada, as most Canadian companies proudly carry those products that have been Energy Star certified.
Since then, windows and doors manufacturers in Canada have taken steps to ensure that their windows meet both the standards for window ratings Canada set by the North American Fenestration Standards (NAFS) and those set forth by Energy Star.
Styles of Energy Efficient Windows for Canadian Homeowners
As there are many styles of windows, it is important to distinguish between them. A reputable windows company will properly label those windows that qualify as Energy Star windows. Following is a breakdown of the different window types:
Fixed Windows: These windows do not open or close but offer a great many style options when it comes to shape and size. Picture windows are the most popular style of fixed windows.
Awning or Casement Windows: Both of these windows open via a hinge and allow for maximum airflow in the home. Both of them are extremely energy efficient. Casement windows are hinged at the top; thus, they open outward and away from the home. Casement windows open outward as well but from the side.
Hopper Windows: Hopper windows are similar to casement windows. However, they open inward and downward as opposed to outward.
Sliding Windows: Sliding windows slide open easily and are an ideal source of both natural light and airflow.
Hung Windows: These windows are the most common window design and open upward via a sash. They are not as efficient as hinged windows but still allow for ample airflow and sunlight.
Whatever style of window you choose for your home, it is best to make sure that they are Energy Star windows. Windows that are Energy Star certified can lower your monthly energy costs by as much as forty percent. More so, they can help you maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature throughout the year, regardless of the outdoor weather conditions.
Total Home Windows and Doors carries a wide selection of Energy Star windows. Call us today to schedule an appointment with a member of our team to choose the most energy-efficient windows for your home.
