How Are Windows Rated For Efficiency?

Energy efficiency is one of the most important considerations when looking for replacement windows Los Angeles, CA. If you are reviewing options for a replacement project, you should know how windows are rated for efficiency. You need to select the most efficient windows for your home. It allows you to lower the overall energy costs.

Windows come with different energy performance ratings. It depends on several values which we will discuss in this article. These values include U-factor, energy rating (ER), solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), R-value, and so on.

U-factor 

U-factor or U-value is the measure of heat transfer through the window assembly, including glass, frame, and spacer. U-factor determines the window’s ability to keep heat inside the property. In other words, it indicates how well a window insulates. For that purpose, you need to choose replacement windows with lower U-factor. As a result, it ensures better efficiency.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) 

No doubt, solar radiations tend to pass through the windows. If you want to measure the amount of these radiations, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient comes in handy. It determines the ability of a window to block heat caused by sunlight. It ranges from 0 to 1. The higher the value, the more amount of solar radiation the window transmits, and vice versa.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient varies from one type of glass to another. If you want to keep your house warm during winter, choose windows with a high SHGC value. Similarly, low SHGC value can keep your home cool during the summer.

R-value 

R-value is all about the window’s ability to retain heat. Windows with a higher R-value are indeed the best option to resist heat conduction through them. The perfect window replacements can keep heat out of your property in summer, and keep the heat in your property during the winter.

Energy Rating (ER)

Energy Rating is a measurement of a window’s performance depending on U-factor, SHGC, and air leakage. Windows with a higher Energy Rating (ER) are more efficient. This value ranges from A to G, meaning A-rated windows are the most efficient ones. Therefore, you should consider ER before choosing the right windows for your home.

Air Leakage 

As the name suggests, it indicates the amount of air passing through the window joints. The unit of air leakage can be cubic feet or cubic meters per minute. A window should have a lower air leakage value. In other words, a lower value means the more airtight the window.

Visible Transmittance (VT) 

Visible light can transmit through a window material. So, Visible Transmittance measures the amount that can be transmitted. VT is measured or expressed as a percentage. The higher the percentage, the higher the amount of visible light can pass through the window material.

All you have is to consider these factors when looking for the best replacement windows. We specialize in replacing windows and doors. Our expert can help choose the energy-efficient replacement windows for your home. Also, we offer range of customizable replacement windows Los Angeles, CA.