The colder months have arrived, which means you’ll be cranking up the heat soon enough. Unfortunately, this is often associated with an increase in energy costs once the winter kicks in. To avoid relying too much on your home comfort unit for warmth, consider replacing your old windows.
When it comes to replacement windows, look for energy-efficient units. Read on as we provide answers to some of the frequently asked questions about energy-efficient windows.
Q: What Are IGUs?
An insulated glass unit (IGU) refers to a window that has at least two glass panes separated by insulation at the edges and inert gas in the middle for better thermal performance. It also goes by other names such as double-pane glass windows or double-glazing units. Some IGUs even have three glass panes to increase energy efficiency further.
Q: Which Inert Gas Is Used for Energy-Efficient Windows?
Depending on the manufacturer, energy-efficient replacement windows can either have argon or krypton as the gas fill between the glass panes. Both are better at impeding the transfer of cold outdoor air to a warm indoors better than regular air because they are denser.
Q: How Can I Determine a Windows’ Energy Performance?
Blue ENERGY STAR® labels on window products indicate that they have passed the government’s energy efficiency requirements. To learn more about their thermal performance, the windows are also equipped with labels from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). These help you compare energy-efficient windows by providing you with energy performance ratings in multiple categories. These are the U-factor, solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), visible transmittance and air leakage ratings.
Count on Renewal by Andersen® of Cape Cod when it comes to installing high-quality, energy-efficient windows. Durable and weatherproof, our replacement windows will maintain their beauty and functionality longer while helping you save money on energy costs. Give us a call at (508) 205-1200 or fill out our contact form to schedule a virtual consultation. We serve homeowners in Cape Cod, MA, and the surrounding communities.
