How can energy efficient windows save me money?

October 27, 1:13 PMChicago Home Improvement ExaminerCheryl Dangel Cullen

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A Simonton energy-efficient 5-lite bow window features
Intercept spacer system and argon gas fill.

During Energy Awareness Month in October, many homeowners are asking the question, “how can energy-efficient windows save me money?” Christopher Burk, product manager with Simonton Windows®, tackles this question --- and several other window inquiries --- while offering sound advice for consumers.

Q: How can energy-efficient vinyl replacement or new construction windows save me money?
A: Vinyl windows with energy-efficient glass packages can dramatically help prevent the natural transfer of heat and cold into your home during various seasons of the year. By controlling this natural conduction, you can better manage the comfort level in your home. You can save money--and realize a significant return on investment--by lowering the amount of energy it takes to heat or cool your home throughout the year.

Q: When should I replace the windows in my home?
A: Just like roofing and siding on your home, windows need to be replaced every 20 years or so. Make it a part of your yearly home maintenance checklist to carefully evaluate your windows. Older windows can lose efficiency, causing heating and cooling bills to rise. When it’s time to replace the windows, research upgraded window packages that are ENERGY STAR® qualified that can help lower your monthly energy bills.

Q: How do I evaluate my windows?
A: To determine if your current windows are energy-efficient, Simonton recommends a few easy do-it-yourself steps:

1. Look for condensation between the panes of glass on double- or triple-glazed windows. This could indicate seal failure. If this is the case, you might need to replace the glass or the entire window.
2. Check to see if there are any “burnt out” areas on your carpets and furnishings where harmful ultraviolet rays have damaged the interior of your home. This is an indication that your windows need spectrally selective Low E glass to block the sun’s harmful rays.
3. Research to determine if you have the appropriate glass package for where you live. For example, if you live in a cooler northern region you’ll find increased performance in the insulation properties of a low U-value. If you are located in a warmer region you’ll benefit from a lower solar heat gain coefficient to help keep the sun’s heat from entering your home. For more information visit Energy Star.

Q: What window frame type is the most energy efficient?
A: Vinyl frames with multi-chambered construction and fusion-welded corners are one of the most energy-efficient available. Vinyl frames are especially effective when combined with a Low E glass package.

Q: What kind of glass should I ask for in replacement windows?
A: At a minimum, you’ll want to start with Low E glass in your window. Then, request a dense, harmless (and odorless) gas fill, like Argon or Krypton, be inserted between the panes of glass. This gas fill acts as a type of barrier and helps prevent the transfer of heat or cold into your home. Controlling the amount of convection between the panes of glass will help you use less energy to heat or cool your home.

Q: Why should I consider vinyl framed replacement windows?
A: Vinyl replacement windows are durable and help you lower monthly energy costs, increase the value of your home, reduce maintenance hassles and add beauty to the interior and exterior of your home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the typical home loses more than 25 percent of its heat through windows. The DOE reports that vinyl windows have moderate to high R-values, a measure of both the construction of the window and the materials used versus heat flow. That translates into reduced heat loss and greater thermal efficiency that can help you save money and reduce energy costs. Another reason to consider vinyl replacement windows is that they can be custom made to fit your design and remodeling requirements.

Q: Why should I be considering replacing my windows right now?
A: You can gain immediate savings on your energy bills starting the day your new energy-efficient replacement windows are installed. And, right now, you can receive up to $1,500 in federal tax credit when replacing windows in 2009 and 2010 that meet certain government requirements. The windows must have a U-factor rating of 0.30 or less and a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) of 0.30 or less to qualify for the federal tax credit.

Q: What kind of glass packages does Simonton offer that meet the requirements for the federal tax credit?
A: Simonton Windows’ Energy Tax Credit (ETC) glass packages are guaranteed to meet the U.S. government requirements for the energy tax credit. For details and information, visit www.simonton.com/taxcredit.

Q: Where can I learn more about energy-efficient windows?
A: There are many resources available to homeowners. Visit  ENERGY STAR, the Home Energy Saver Web site, Efficient Windows Collaborative or American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) at http://www.efficientwindows.org.

Read more about energy efficient windows and other products to ensure your windows energy efficiency by clicking here.