Energy & Cost Savings
Energy Efficient Windows can substantially reduce the costs associated with heating and cooling. In climates that mainly require cooling, non-energy efficient windows can be a major source of unwanted heat gain. In recent years, Energy Efficient Windows with Low-E coatings that reject solar heat without darkening the glass have undergone a technological revolution. It is now possible to significantly reduce solar heat gain and improve comfort while providing clear views and daylight. Savings include reduced air leakage. Depending on the condition of the old windows in an existing home, the savings can be higher if window replacement leads to long-term air leakage reduction.
Lower HVAC Costs
Energy Efficient Windows not only provide reduced annual heating and cooling bills, they also reduce the peak heating and cooling loads. Energy Efficient Windows with Low-E Coatings not only provide reduced annual heating and cooling bills; they reduce the peak heating and cooling loads, as well.
Reduced Fading
Many organic materials, such as carpet, fabrics, paper, artwork, paints, and wood may fade upon exposure to sunlight. Energy Efficient Window with Low-E Coatings selection can influence the type and intensity of transmitted radiation. The most harmful radiation in sunlight are the ultraviolet (UV) rays, which are the most energetic and thus most likely to break chemical bonds, leading to fading and degradation. Glass blocks all UV radiation below 300 nm, but transmits UV from 300-380 nm. Energy Efficient Window Coatings on glass can reduce the UV transmitted by up to 75%. UV absorbers can be incorporated into thin plastic films in multilayer windows or as an interlayer in laminated glass. In both cases, the UV transmission can be reduced to less than 1%. However, it is important to note that the remaining visible light that is transmitted can still cause serious fading in some materials. Using Energy Efficient Windows with Low-E coated glass, applied films, or windows incorporating plastic layers rather than clear uncoated glass will reduce fading for many modern interior furnishings.
