How New Windows Lower Your Energy Bills

How New Windows Lower Your Energy Bills

How New Windows Lower Your Energy Bills

Wondering how to keep your home nice and warm this winter season without causing your monthly energy bills to spike? It is a common concern for many homeowners, especially during this time of the year when we need our HVAC system to function properly to keep our interiors comfortable and cozy. Both the heat gain and heat loss that occur via our windows equate to around 25-30 percent of the heating and cooling energy use in residential homes. So, when it comes to keeping your home as energy efficient as possible, your windows play a major role.

Read on to learn more about how your current windows could be the problem and how new windows can lower your energy bills.

Designed to Reduce UV Rays

New windows today are generally manufactured using a Low-E coating, which is a thin, metallic coating. The “Low-E” represents low emissivity, which refers to how effectively the window can reflect heat instead of absorbing it. In essence, the glass prevents your interior from being impacted by the sunshine.

Window Glazing

The type of window glazing plays a significant role in the window’s U-factor or insulating properties. When we talk about glazing, we are referring to the type of glass – single, double or triple-pane – that’s used. Older windows in the past were typically designed as single-pane, which is why they are much more susceptible to temperature fluctuations. The more layers of glazing, the better your home will be insulated from what’s happening outside. This is why double and triple-paned glazing are frequently used today. They offer a superior shield for the glass and your home energy use.

Slow Heat Transfer with Gas-Filled Chambers

The chambers between the glass are also filled with Argon or Krypton gas nowadays. Aside from buffering out air leaks, these also help to reduce the intense glare and UV rays from the sun. Why does this matter? Aside from heating up your home, UV rays can also cause fading to artwork, rugs, furniture, and flooring. New windows prevent this from happening.

Protection Against the Winter Chill

If your windows are more than 30 years old, chances are they are not too comfortable to sit next to. Drafty windows that let cold air penetrate through will not only cool down the interior of your home, but it can also pull heat away from your body, causing you to feel that deep, winter chill even when inside. This is when many of us crank up the thermostat and throw on another layer. But as Canadians, we know how much it can add up when we are forced to blast the heat for several months during the year. Having ENERGY STAR® windows lets you curl up as close to the window as you wish so you can enjoy the view without having to blast the heat and use more energy.

Stay Cool in the Summer

No one wants to feel overheated and uncomfortable while at home. But our extreme seasons here in Canada can make that a reality every year, even in summer. During our intense heat waves, your old windows can attract approximately 75 percent of solar heat inside. Since ENERGY STAR® windows are designed to deflect that heat gain, you can enjoy the natural sunlight while staying cool throughout the summer.

Tips for Purchasing New Windows

When you are gearing up to replace your windows, remember some of these tips:

  • Look for the ENERGY STAR® label to get the best energy efficiency rating for your home
  • Make sure the windows are gas-filled for colder climates and have Low-E coating
  • Generally speaking, for enhanced thermal resistance to maximize energy savings year-round, select windows with a low U-factor and low Solar Heat Gain (SHGCs). This, however, depends on your circumstances. For those with larger windows and increased sun exposure, values under 0.25 are recommended. On the other hand, those with smaller windows or overhangs who require more sun to warm up in the winter, a value above 0.4 is suggested.
  • Talk to a window expert to get their advice on the best design and materials for your home and climate.

Aztech Doors and Windows offer high-quality products and services for all of your window and door related needs. Give us a call today to get started. 

New Windows Are Your Way to a Reduced Environmental Footprint

New Windows Are Your Way to a Reduced Environmental Footprint

Your Home and the Environment 

When your home is heated with oil, gas, coal or electricity, it uses energy which generates CO2. If your windows are not properly insulated, a significant amount of heat loss can occur through the windows, resulting in more energy (and CO2) being produced to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home. To reduce this impact, window manufacturers have been working to design materials that will greatly reduce heat loss and thermal transmittance. Alternatives have been created to drive down the U-factor by adding more panes, using inert gas in the spaces between the panes, adding Low-E and reflective coatings to maintain heat, as well as new framing materials and better edging and weather-stripping technology.  Standards and testing protocols have also improved over the past decade, positioning the industry to strive for more carbon-neutral alternatives. 

Carbon Neutral ENERGY STAR® Products

Replacing any old windows with ENERGY STAR® rated products can help to reduce energy use and CO2 emissions. The ENERGY STAR® logo is the standard for energy efficiency. Some provinces also have a rebate program for when you buy ENERGY STAR® windows for your home.  Check with your provincial utility companies to find out what rebates are available to you when you do a full replacement or renovation project. In Ontario, Enbridge and Union Gas Home Reno Rebate programs are still active and can save you $5,000 when you upgrade to new ENERGY STAR® windows and doors

PVC Materials

When purchasing new windows, you should also consider the materials used. PVC, for instance, is a high R-value insulation material that can provide a significant amount of insulation to lower energy use and reduce your impact on the environment.

Insulated Glass Units with Low E-Glass 

Do you still have single-pane windows in your home? If so, you are using (and wasting) more energy than you need to maintain the temperature in your home. Modern window technology uses Insulated Glass Units (IGUs) to prevent heat loss through the glass. Unlike single-pane units, IGUs consist of two or more panes of glass separated by an inert gas. The insulating layer and gas diffuse the heat transfer which makes the window much more energy efficient. To improve the performance of IGUs even further, window coatings are also used to reflect and absorb the sunlight. In fact, energy codes in Canada and the US now require that Low-E Glass coatings are to be used in all residential homes. What does that mean for you? Only buy window units that have a low-emissivity glass with a transparent coating to efficiently reflect heat, allow light to pass, and keep the temperature consistent in your home. If you are not sure which type of Low E-glass you need, talk to a window professional first. 

Warm Edge Technology

Metal spacers that hold the glass apart are highly conductive and can cause up to 80% of the energy to be lost at the edge. That is a lot of wasted energy that could otherwise be maintained. If you have any windows that still use aluminum edging, these should be replaced by newer ones that offer Warm Edge Technology. This edge feature can greatly improve the thermal efficiency of the window which can equate in significant heat savings and lower carbon emissions.

Advanced Weather Stripping

The weatherstripping around the window plays an important part in energy efficiency. A well-maintained strip prevents any gaps that can let air in or out of the home. And if you live in an area that has colder weather patterns, it is essential to use weather-stripping materials that can provide the highest level of insulation for your home. Look for advanced triple weatherstripping for a superior seal to prevent air leaks and drive up energy use. This advanced technology results in better protection against water and air leakage. 

What Else to Look For

A strong frame and sash will also make a difference in the performance of the window and overall energy efficiency. Look for a thick frame and sash that is durable and incredibly strong. New windows are your way to a reduced environmental footprint. The type of gas filler used between the panes is also important. Argon and Krypton are the best gas fillers on the market when it comes to energy-efficiency.

As you can see, the type of windows you have in your home can greatly affect your environmental footprint. For the most energy-efficient designs on the market, turn to Aztech Doors and Windows Vaughan. Our windows feature triple weather stripping, low E-coatings, double and triple-pane IGU technology with Argon gas, Warm Edge technology, and sturdy frame and sash construction for ultimate strength and support. 

The Top 7 Reasons Why You Should Care about ENERGY STAR®

The Top 7 Reasons Why You Should Care about ENERGY STAR®

The Top 7 Reasons Why You Should Care about ENERGY STAR®

Symbol For Top Energy Performance

If you’re trying to choose between two products, whether you are looking at windows or doors, it can be tough to adequately determine which one will provide you with the best energy performance. That is unless it has an ENERGY STAR® label. This little sticker is an easy way to identify household appliances or products that provide optimal energy efficiency. Think of it as a short-cut to finding the top energy performers for when you’re shopping for new windows and doors. Makes your selection process much easier!

Increases The Value Of Your Home

Eco-conscious home buyers also look for new ENERGY STAR® windows and doors when choosing between homes.  Why? Because they know that they won’t have to replace them for many years to come, and they know these products can greatly reduce their energy bills. When it comes to home improvements, replacement windows are ranked high and can increase the value of your home as much as nearly the total cost of the windows in just one year. So making energy efficient upgrades to your windows and doors can really pay off when it’s time to sell your home. Plus, your home will benefit the environment.

Guarantees Your Windows Feature The Best Technology

An ENERGY STAR® qualified window or door will utilize the newest and best insulating technology. Many of the features will include triple-glazing units, low-E glass, insulated frames and sashes, and inert gas in the sealed units. Talk about practicality for the value!

Provides Better Comfort Levels

ENERGY STAR® qualified products will also help to keep your home more comfortable year-round. The windows are more airtight than other types of windows which helps to greatly reduce drafts and cold spots. But even beyond their ability to retain heat and keep out the cold, they also reduce outside noise levels, reduce dust and pollen, as well as condensation levels.

Helps The Planet

If your windows are leaking air, your HVAC system will have to work much harder  to keep your home at a comfortable level. This not only affects your energy bills, but it also impacts the amount of fossil fuels that are used to produce your energy. And the more fossil fuels you consume, the more dangerous greenhouse gas emissions get released into our climate. By using ENERGY STAR® window and door products, you can reduce your energy usage and help the planet out a little bit in return.

Offers Long Term Rewards

Many people forgo installing ENERGY STAR® products because they cost more up front. However, they lose out in the long term because ENERGY STAR® offers energy savings that quickly add up over time. The energy saving benefits far outweigh the negatives of the initial costs by a long shot.

Deciding on the right windows and doors for your home is never an easy decision. However, with all the benefits that ENERGY STAR® products provide, you can purchase with confidence. At Aztech Doors and Windows, we offer Energy Star certified products that help to improve the comfort of your home, reduce your energy bills, and conserve natural resources. Take a look at our range of window and door products online or contact us today to learn more!

What does ENERGY STAR indicate?

The energy star is a trademark that is internationally recognized to represent that the product is certified as energy efficient. 

What is an ENERGY STAR product?

An energy star product gives the consumer the peace of mind that the product they have purchased has been certified and recognized as energy efficient. An energy star product is as good if not better than standard products but they indicate that the product meets the standard for high energy efficiency. 

Which ENERGY STAR rating is best?

On windows and doors, the higher the energy efficiency rating (ER), the more energy efficient the product is. Good performing windows and doors have an ER of at least 29.

How do you tell if your appliances are ENERGY STAR?

When purchasing new windows, look for the energy star sticker. Any energy star product will be labeled with the energy star logo. It will also likely indicate the climate zones where your windows will operate best.

Can I claim ENERGY STAR appliances on taxes?

In Canada, there are currently no federal rebate programs offered to  taxpayers for the purchase of energy efficient appliances. Check the CRA website each year for an updated list of provincial and territorial government agencies who do provide credits or rebates to homeowners. 

Where i can find a list of ENERGY STAR Canada participants

Please click here for more information on retailers and manufacturers in Canada who participate in the energy start program.

Windows and Doors Energy Performance

Windows and Doors Energy Performance

Windows and Doors Energy Performance

The Canadian test standard for the energy performance of windows, doors and skylights is the CSA A440.2. Some products sold in Canada may also be tested to the United States standards of the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) (100 and 200 standards). Tests are performed using standard sample sizes to fairly rank their overall structural and energy performance. Frequently, the energy efficiency ratings are derived by using computer software developed specifically for fenestration products.

Currently, testing the energy performance of factory-built windows, doors and skylights is mandatory in in Ontario, British Columbia and Nova Scotia.  Windows, doors and skylights in British Columbia and windows and sliding glass doors in Ontario – Hamilton, Guelph, Kitchener – Waterloo and area must meet a minimum efficiency standard.  The values that are most often used in Canada to represent the energy performance of windows, doors and skylights are the following.

U-value :- Indicates the rate of heat transfer from warm to cold areas in watts per square metre Kelvin (W/m2*K) or British thermal units per hour per square foot Fahrenheit (Btu/h*sq. ft.*°F).  The lower the value, the slower the rate of heat transfer.

R-value :- This value is the opposite of the U-factor and is not part of the energy performance standards.  It indicates the resistance to heat transfer in square feet per hour in Fahrenheit degrees of temperature per British thermal unit (sq. ft*h*°F/Btu). The higher the number, the higher the resistance to heat transfer.

Solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) :- A ratio indicating the amount of the sun’s heat that can pass through the product (solar gain). The higher the number, the greater the solar gain.

Energy rating (ER) :- For windows and doors only, this unitless number reflects the balance between heat transfer (U-factor or U-value), solar gain and air leakage. Higher numbers indicate a slower heat transfer without significantly reducing the amount of solar gain.

Visible transmittance (VT) :- A ratio that indicates the amount of visible light that can pass through the product. The higher the number, the more visible light that can pass through.

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Windows and Doors Energy Efficiency

Windows and Doors Energy Efficiency

The Canadian test standard for the energy performance of windows, doors, and skylights is the CSA A440.2. Some products sold in Canada may also be tested to the United States standards of the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). Tests are performed using standard sample sizes to fairly rank their overall structural and energy performance.

Testing the energy performance of factory-built windows, doors, and skylights is mandatory in Ontario and in most other provinces of Canada.  Windows, entry doors, and full glass sliding doors in Ontario must meet a minimum efficiency standard.  The values that are most often used to represent the energy performance of windows, doors, and sliding doors are the following:

U-value : Indicates the rate of heat transfer from warm to cold areas in watts per square meter Kelvin (W/m2*K) or British thermal units per hour per square foot Fahrenheit (Btu/h*sq. ft.*°F).  The lower the value, the slower the rate of heat transfer.

R-value : This value is the opposite of the U-factor and is not part of the energy performance standards.  It indicates the resistance to heat transfer in square feet per hour in Fahrenheit degrees of temperature per British thermal unit (sq. ft*h*°F/Btu). The higher the number, the higher the resistance to heat transfer.

Solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) : A ratio indicating the amount of the sun’s heat that can pass through the product (solar gain). The higher the number, the greater the solar gain.

Energy rating (ER):  For windows and doors only, this unitless number reflects the balance between heat transfer (U-factor or U-value), solar gain and air leakage. Higher numbers indicate a slower heat transfer without significantly reducing the amount of solar gain.

Visible transmittance (VT) : A ratio that indicates the amount of visible light that can pass through the product. The higher the number, the more visible light that can pass through.

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