The benefits of energy efficiency should be pretty obvious to most of us. But it’s always helpful to be reminded of some of the reasons why conservation of energy is important and how we can lower our carbon footprint from the comfort of our own homes.
Conservation is Key
Energy efficiency means, in a nutshell, that you use less energy to do the same job. The windows in our homes are thermal holes. During fabrication, there are many types of materials and processes that manufacturers use to not only help insulate your home, but to reduce the amount of energy that’s lost.
By purchasing vinyl windows that are energy efficient, you play a very significant role in conserving our resources. The average home loses about 30% of its heat or air-conditioning through non-energy efficient windows.
Long-Term Investment
While the out-of-pocket cost might initially be greater when installing energy-efficient vinyl windows, you save money over time because your home requires a less expensive heating and cooling system. You also spend less in maintaining and replacing windows and doors.
Today, many manufacturers that produce “energy-efficient” windows must meet certain criteria in order for their product to be ENERGY STAR qualified.
ENERGY STAR
ENERGY STAR is a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency program that was established in 1992 to promote energy-efficient products and practice, reduce greenhouse emissions, and help consumers save on energy bills.
To meet ENERGY STAR’s rigorous governmental standards, vinyl windows must be:
- Manufactured by an ENERGY STAR partner
- Independently tested and certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC)
- Have NFRC ratings that meet the guidelines set by the Department of Energy (DOE)
When fabricating vinyl windows that qualify for the ENERGY STAR designation, manufacturers use different methods of technology, which include:
- High-grade framing materials to help insulate and lower the transfer of heat
- Dual panes with a gas-filled space for energy efficiency
- Low-E (Low thermal emissivity) glass made with certain coatings that reflect infrared light to help a home retain heat in the winter and circumvent heat in the summer
- Warm Edge Spacers to keep a window’s glass panes the proper distance apart
In this day and age, there are many ways to improve energy efficiency, from technological advances in manufacturing, to the installation of energy efficient vinyl windows in our homes.
We each play a part in reducing the amount of greenhouse gas emissions we produce every year. The conservation of energy today means a lower carbon footprint tomorrow.
Other than being energy efficient, vinyl windows have a number of other benefits.
About Value Windows and Doors
From the beginning, Value Windows and Doors has produced durable vinyl windows and doors. A commitment of uncompromising quality and service, in addition to providing first class products, has always been the hallmark of Value Windows and Doors.
Experience the difference that high-quality, energy efficient windows and doors can make in your home today.
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