Energy efficiency has become a top priority for homeowners, businesses, and governments alike. With rising energy costs and growing concerns about climate change, finding ways to reduce energy consumption and save money has never been more important. One effective way to improve energy efficiency is by installing energy-efficient windows. In this blog, we'll explore the benefits of energy-efficient windows and how they can improve living in a variety of ways.

1. Lower energy bills

One of the most obvious benefits of energy-efficient windows is that they can lower energy bills. Traditional windows allow heat to escape during the winter and allow hot air to enter during the summer, which can make it difficult to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home or office. This means that your heating and cooling systems have to work harder and consume more energy to maintain a consistent temperature. Energy-efficient windows, on the other hand, are designed to prevent heat from escaping in the winter and keep hot air out in the summer, which can significantly reduce the amount of energy needed to heat and cool your home or office. This, in turn, can lower your energy bills and save you money in the long run.

2. Increased comfort

Another benefit of energy-efficient windows is increased comfort. Traditional windows can allow drafts to enter your home or office, which can create cold spots and make it difficult to maintain a consistent temperature. This can lead to discomfort and even health problems, such as respiratory issues or allergies. Energy-efficient windows are designed to eliminate drafts and create a more comfortable living or working environment. By maintaining a consistent temperature and reducing drafts, energy-efficient windows can improve overall comfort and well-being.

3. Noise reduction

Energy-efficient windows can also reduce noise pollution. Traditional windows provide little insulation against outside noise, which can be a problem if you live in a busy city or near a noisy road. Energy-efficient windows are designed to provide better insulation, which can significantly reduce the amount of outside noise that enters your home or office. This can lead to a more peaceful and relaxing living or working environment, which can improve overall quality of life.

4. Increased resale value

Energy-efficient windows can also increase the resale value of your home or office. With more and more people becoming interested in energy efficiency, having energy-efficient windows can make your property more attractive to potential buyers. This can translate into a higher resale value and a quicker sale if you decide to put your property on the market. In addition, some government programs and incentives offer rebates or tax credits for energy-efficient upgrades, which can further increase the value of your property.

5. Reduced carbon footprint

One of the most important benefits of energy-efficient windows is that they can help reduce your carbon footprint. Traditional windows can contribute to energy waste, which can have a negative impact on the environment. Energy-efficient windows, on the other hand, can significantly reduce the amount of energy needed to heat and cool your home or office, which can lower your carbon footprint and reduce your impact on the environment. By reducing energy consumption, energy-efficient windows can help to slow climate change and promote a more sustainable future.

6. Improved durability and longevity

Energy-efficient windows are also designed to be more durable and long-lasting than traditional windows. They are made with high-quality materials that are designed to withstand extreme temperatures and weather conditions, which can help to prevent damage and increase their lifespan. In addition, energy-efficient windows are typically easier to maintain than traditional windows, which can save you time and money on repairs and replacements.

2023 Tax Credit

As of 2023, there are still a number of federal tax credits available for homeowners who install energy-efficient windows in their homes. These tax credits were initially introduced in the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and have since been extended and modified multiple times.

The current tax credit available for energy-efficient windows is a 10% credit of the cost of the windows, up to $500. However, there are certain criteria that must be met in order to qualify for this credit.

Firstly, the windows must meet or exceed the 2012 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) requirements for the region in which they are being installed. This means that the windows must have a U-factor of 0.30 or lower and a solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) of 0.30 or lower.

Secondly, the windows must be installed in the taxpayer's primary residence. This means that rental properties and second homes do not qualify for the credit.

Thirdly, the windows must be installed between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2023, to be eligible for the credit.

It's important to note that the $500 maximum credit is a lifetime limit, meaning that if you have claimed the credit for any other energy-efficient upgrades in the past, the amount you are eligible to claim for windows may be reduced.

In addition to the federal tax credit, there may also be state or local incentives available for energy-efficient windows. These incentives vary by location and can include tax credits, rebates, or other financial incentives.

It's important to do your research and check with your local energy utility or government to see if there are any additional incentives available in your area. Some websites, such as the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), can provide a comprehensive list of incentives available in your state.

Overall, the federal tax credit for energy-efficient windows is a valuable incentive for homeowners looking to make energy-efficient upgrades to their homes. By taking advantage of this credit, homeowners can not only save money on their energy bills but also reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Conclusion

Energy-efficient windows offer a variety of benefits that can improve living in many ways. From lower energy bills and increased comfort to noise reduction and improved resale value, energy-efficient windows are an effective way to save money, reduce energy consumption, and promote a more sustainable future. If you're looking for ways to improve energy efficiency and make your home or office

If you notice any of these signs or other indications that your windows are not in prime condition, it’s time to consider replacing them as they may no longer be insulating your home from the summer heat and winter chills. As you explore the options for replacement windows, consider the following factors to help guide you in maximizing energy efficiency—thereby optimizing comfort in your home and savings on your utility costs.

Number of panes

As mentioned above, double-pane windows are far more energy efficient than their single-pane counterparts. The two layers of glass in double-pane windows are separated by a space that is typically filled with gas, such as argon or krypton. These nontoxic, colorless, and odorless gases are denser than air, enabling them to serve as insulation against outdoor temperatures and UV rays.

While single-pane windows may carry a lower upfront cost, the energy savings from double-pane windows leads to a significantly greater return on investment over time. Triple-pane windows are also an option, but tend to be best-suited for climates that experience harsh winters; double panes work well for most homes in Arizona.

Low-E coatings

One of the most effective ways to ensure that windows will keep the heat out during the summer is to opt for those with a low-emissivity (low-E) coating, a microscopically thin, nontoxic metal or metallic oxide coating that affects the movement of heat energy from the sun. Though invisible to the naked eye, this coating is very powerful, only allowing light of certain frequencies and wavelengths to pass through the glass. Specifically, low-E coatings allow natural light to enter the home while deflecting infrared light and damaging UV rays back to the outdoors. (UV rays can burn your skin, fade upholstery, and even damage building materials over time.)

Low-E coatings help keep your home warm during the winter and cool during the summer, save your carpets, flooring, and furnishings from discoloration, and can reduce energy loss by an estimated 30-50 percent—yielding significant savings over the long term. There are options available for low, moderate, and high solar gain.

ENERGY STAR rating

A program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, ENERGY STAR provides simple, credible, and unbiased information to help consumers make well-informed decisions about the energy efficiency of the products they buy. Items that earn an ENERGY STAR rating have been independently certified to deliver strong efficiency performance and utility cost savings. Therefore, by choosing windows with ENERGY STAR ratings, you can rest assured that your new additions will help you reduce utility costs and maintain a more comfortable temperature inside your home—no matter the time of year.

Solar heat gain coefficient

In addition to ENERGY STAR, another organization that rates the energy efficiency of windows and other products is the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). For windows, NFRC labels highlight four categories that can help you gauge energy performance. When seeking a window that will help your home stay cool in the summer, the key category to consider is the solar heat gain coefficient, which measures how effectively the window can resist unwanted heat gain. The range is zero to one, and ratings on the lower end indicate better performance.

Window frames

When installing replacement windows, one of the most important choices you’ll have to make is which type of frame will surround your new windows. While wood frames are often considered the best insulator because wood does not transfer heat and cold as easily as some other materials, high-performance varieties of alternative materials can also offer excellent energy efficiency. At The Window & Door Store, all of our window frames feature the latest in energy-saving technology, as well as custom colors and designs to suit the style of your home. For example, we offer the following types of window frames:

  • Fiberglass composite. As one of the newest options in the market for replacement windows, fiberglass composite windows are designed to last for many years to come. Featuring five-layer composite construction, these windows offer unparalleled strength and durability—even when faced with intense heat, strong wind, and other harsh conditions. They also come with a long-lasting powder coat finish that resists scratching and fading.
  • High-performance vinyl. Our vinyl windows feature a high-performance, fiberglass-reinforced structure that offers long-lasting durability with minimal maintenance. We offer custom glass packages for optimal energy efficiency, as well as a transferable, “double-lifetime” warranty with accidental glass breakage coverage.
  • Wood-clad. Combining the timeless elegance of traditional wooden windows with reliable durability, our wood-clad window frames feature a protective exterior that resists the elements and remains in beautiful condition for years to come. They are available in numerous different design options to suit the style of any home, with custom staining and painted finishes to match the existing trim and color scheme.

Proper installation

Once you’ve selected replacement windows for your home, it’s crucial to make sure that they are installed by a trusted professional. If installed improperly, even the highest quality windows may be prone to a variety of problems, including poor insulation and energy loss. This could negate the energy efficiency and cost savings that the new windows are designed to create.

At The Window and Door Store, we not only provide top-quality products from industry-leading brands, but our team of expert installers will ensure that your new windows are properly installed for years of worry-free enjoyment. No matter how high the outside temperatures may climb, the energy-saving features found in our windows and doors will help you maintain a comfortable environment inside your home while minimizing your utility costs. To learn more about our product selection and how new windows can help you stay cool this summer, request a free estimate or visit our new, state-of-the-art showroom in Scottsdale!