Get New England’s Most Energy Efficient Windows with Energy Star 7.0
Are you looking for the most energy efficient windows in New England? There are new metrics now available to help you measure the performance of replacement windows. Beginning Oct 23, 2023, Energy Star® is leveling up their requirements for energy efficient products to become Energy Star® certified.
For any product or appliance seeking this seal of approval, it must meet new rigorous guidelines and standards. When you want the best windows for cold climates, Coastal Windows & Exteriors is happy to install replacement windows that not only meet but exceed the newest Energy Star® 7.0 requirements.
Let’s talk about these new requirements and what it means for you—a New England homeowner. Why should you care about Energy Star® requirements, anyway?
What’s Energy Star® all about?
Energy Star® is a government-backed program that certifies the most energy efficient windows available. In addition to windows, this program applies to a large variety of products and appliances, including roofs, entry doors, and house siding. Even washing machines and microwaves can become Energy Star® certified, who knew?!
Fun fact: Established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1992, Energy Star® later joined by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in 1996. It’s an internationally recognized symbol for energy efficiency, designed to help you save money and protect the environment through energy-efficient products and practices. Our world is a lot more energy efficient with Energy Star®!
How does Energy Star® measure window performance?
As part of this certification process, products must be tested in a laboratory recognized by EPA to perform residential windows, doors, and skylight testing. These are the metrics that matter when it comes to Energy Star® Certification.
U-Factor
Think of U-Factor as how quickly heat moves through a window or door’s surface when there’s a temperature difference on either side. It’s kind of like how some materials feel colder or hotter faster than others. Note:This heat movement isn’t just about direct warmth–it includes things like air movement and invisible long-wave radiation.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)
This focuses onhow much the sun’s heat gets inside through a window or door. It’s a ratio—so if the SHGC is high, it means a lot of the sun’s heat is getting in. This can be great for cold days but not so much for hot,humidsummer ones (especially us New England folks).
Air Leakage
This one’s all about drafts. AKA: How much air is sneaking through your window or door! It’s measured by how much air moves through a certain area in any given time. Basically, you don’t want too much of this because it means your indoor air may escape through the frames.
What are the new Energy Star® 7.0 requirements for replacement windows?
Now for the good stuff…what are the new Energy Star® requirements for replacement windows? Here’s the breakdown for U-factor as well as SHGC:
Now, let’s look at the requirements for air leakage. Think of this in terms of the airtightness of a window.
How does Coastal’s Energy Star® rating measure up for replacement windows?
If you’re looking for energy efficient windows, we have great news. With our expert window installation, you can enjoy ratings that are even lower than the new Energy Star 7.0 requirements, including a U-factor that is as low as .15.
But there’s more! The air tightness of our windows is eye-popping. In fact, they are 23 times more airtight than competitors with a .01 CFM rating. They are close to being 100% airtight against the harsh winter weather, second only to a solid wall! So, what does this mean for you? When you want energy efficient windows, Coastal has your back.
Energy Star® certified windows: What’s in it for you?
If energy savings is a priority in your home while caring for the environment, Energy Star® is a certification that you’ll want to take seriously. These products bring a huge range of benefits to homes in our region, including the following.
Enjoy more energy savings
At the heart of the Energy Star® certification is energy efficiency. With exterior products like windows, doors, or roofing materials that meet these standards, homeowners can reduce their energy consumption. What’s even more awesome is that upgrading from single-pane windows can potentially save you over $500 per year on your energy bills.
Get cozy and improve indoor comfort
Energy Star®-certified windows and doors, for instance, are designed to prevent drafts and maintain a more consistent indoor temperature. This leads to a more comfortable living space, especially during the peak of winter or summer. It’s one of the best reasons to choose replacement windows that meet the new Energy Star® 7.0 requirements.
Lowers your carbon footprint
Reduced energy consumption also means a reduced carbon footprint. If you install energy-efficient exterior products, you get to contribute to decreased greenhouse gas emissions and reduced dependence on fossil fuels. How cool is that?
Heads up! Beware of the “Beauty Queen” window
We like to warn homeowners of the infamous “Beauty Queen” window. These replacement windows look good on paper but are not necessarily the best quality. The unfortunate reality is that not all window products are manufactured in the same way.
What you should look for is the AAMA Gold Label. In addition to the Energy Star® certification, this label is a shortcut to determining the very best quality windows available. This ensures that you’re getting exactly what you pay for with your new window replacement.
Please watch the video below to learn more about the Beauty Queen window.
Energy Star 7.0 requirements: Friendly reminder about professional window installation
Don’t forget that the performance of your windows will greatly depend on the quality of the installation. When you’re choosing a window company, be sure to look out for the following experience and credentials:
- Lead-Safe EPA Certified Firm: Lead is a very dangerous concern for New England homeowners. That’s because lead exposure can cause serious illness, and this is especially true for children. If your window contractor is caught without this certification, it can result in up to a $30,000 fine.
- Installation Masters Window & Door Installer Certification: This certification represents top craftsmanship in the window and door industry. It’s a nationwide training and certification that makes window installation more efficient while maximizing energy savings.
- Good Housekeeping Seal: A name recognized by 96% of American households, the Good Housekeeping Seal is for window companies that display quality excellence in their products. Products undergo lab testing to ensure it meets the Good Housekeeping policy.
- Chamber Memberships: Reputable contractors are members of the local Chamber of Commerce. Community involvement is a top priority to Coastal Windows & Exteriors!
- Proof of Business: Ask to see a bank letter, and a business license, and inquire about their general liability insurance.
- Awards and accolades: Awards and accolades demonstrate the window installer’s commitment to quality products, workmanship, and customer satisfaction. Most recently, Coastal Windows & Exteriors was named the #1 woman-owned exterior remodeling company in New England by Inc. 5000 and Qualified Remodeler, as well as North Shore Magazine’s Readers’ Choice Best of North Shore (BONS) award, along with numerous other nationally acclaimed rankings. Click here to read the blog.
It’s easy: See your home for FREE in 3D with new replacement windows
Make your home as energy efficient (and cozy!) as possible with replacement windows from Coastal Windows & Exteriors. With our help, you can have a more comfortable home with lower energy bills year-round.
See a preview of what your home will look like in 3D for FREE. This is a complimentary service with your free estimate! Click here to get started.
