The type of window and the fit of the window are very important. You can have the best energy efficient windows in the world, but if the fit is bad they will leak and waste energy.

The windows serve several purposes. Decorate the room, let light in, offer a view of the outside, and of course let in fresh air. But if they are not the best energy efficient windows they can also increase your energy bill.

If you have old windows and want to make them more energy efficient, check around the outside edges to see if they are leaking air. This is best done with a feather or a candle on a windy day. Just move the candle or feather around the window to see if air is getting in. If it is you should seal around the window. Depending upon the gap you could use weather stripping or a caulk sealant.

If you are getting new windows you can save a lot of money. Make sure that the rating is as high as you can afford. Windows energy efficiency is measure with a “U” value. The lower the number, the better energy efficient the window is.

Make sure that the installer seals tightly around the window. Some of the best energy efficient windows qualify for a tax rebate. Check locally to see if you qualify.

There are many types of windows available today. And of course most are enrgy efficient, some more than others. Make sure that you explore all options before selecting to insure that you get the best energy efficint windows that you can afford. It could mean a large difference in your savings later in your energy bill.

Best Energy Efficient Windows is a post from: Energy Efficient Home Tips

The consumer rating for replacement windows is controlled by the NFRC. That is the National Fenestration Rating Council. Here is a little bit about them right from their web site at: http://www.nfrc.org/about.aspx

“NFRC is a non-profit organization that administers the only uniform, independent rating and labeling system for the energy performance of windows, doors, skylights, and attachment products. Our goal is to provide fair, accurate, and reliable energy performance ratings so that:
• Architects, builders, code officials, contractors, homeowners, and others can compare different products and make informed product choices.
• Building officials, state government employees, and others involved in code development and enforcement can determine if products meet local codes.
• Government- and utility-run energy efficiency programs can establish performance requirements and standards.
• Manufacturers have a fair and level playing field to compare products and an accurate method of showing the energy benefits of new designs or technology.”

When deciding which replacement windows to purchase by looking at the consumer ratings, you must first determine the primary job of your windows. This chart will help you decide if your windows will mostly be used for heating or cooling. Mostly windows will be sold by location, but this is a big decision and you must insure that you are getting the correct windows for your location!

When you buy replacement windows you want to make sure that they are Energy Star certified. The only way for that to happen is if they have been rated by the NFRC.
Let’s take a look at the NFRC label and see what the numbers mean.

The U factor shows how well it keeps the heat in your home. The lower the number, the better.

The solar heat gain shows how the window keeps the heat out. Again, a lower number is better.

The visible transmittance shows how much light comes through the window. The higher the number, the more light that is let in.

Air leakage shows how much air is leaked through the window. A lower number means less air gets into your home.

Condensation resistance shows the ability of the window to getting condensation on the inside of the window. The higher number means that the window is more resistant.

So no matter what your reason is for replacing your windows, make sure that you pay close attention to the consumer ratings for replacement windows. They should have both the NFRC label and the Energy Star certification.

For a complete list of windows that have been tested, and their results, visit the NFRC web site at: http://search.nfrc.org/

Consumer Rating For Replacement Windows is a post from: Energy Efficient Home Tips