Energy-efficient windows lower energy usage, improve sustainability, and help Canadian homeowners save monthly through multiple glass panes, argon gas filling, and low-E coatings. A true energy-efficient window will be marked with an ENERGY-STAR symbol for easy identification.
Ontario homeowners benefit greatly from installing energy-efficient windows. Through innovative technology with cost and sustainability in mind, they help you save on monthly energy bills and have better control of your home’s environment. Discover how ENERGY STAR windows lower ongoing energy bills and improve the overall value of your home.
Defining Energy-Efficient Windows
Energy-efficient windows use double or triple glazing, low-E coatings, argon gas, and specific window frames and spacers to be cost-effective and sustainable. Here’s how:
- Double/Triple-Paned: This refers to the number of glass sheets used to build the window. More panes mean more insulation and thus efficiency. Similar to wearing more layers in the winter, more layers of glass help separate the heat and cold.
- Low-E Coating: A low-emissivity coating on windows that reflects heat while allowing light to pass through. This means heat will be reflected into the home during winter and reflected away during summer.
- Argon Gas: A dense gas used to fill the space between glass panes to slow down heat transfer. Without this gas filling, cold and warm air would flow more freely, resulting in less-efficient insulation.
- Window Frames and Spacers: Window spacers are strips that separate glass panes to properly contain the insulating gas within. Window frames are often made with vinyl as it’s affordable, low-maintenance, and a great insulator. It helps create an airtight seal around the edges.
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There are plenty of terms used to determine window energy ratings, or the ER system. Here’s what you need to know.
The ER system is an indicator of the overall performance of a window based on:
- U-Factor: How well a window prevents heat from escaping a home.
- Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): How much solar heat from sunlight a window lets in.
- Visible Transmittance (VT): How much daylight passes through the window.
- Air Leakage: How much outside air leaks through seals and frames.
- Condensation Resistance (CR): How well the window resists condensation forming on interior surfaces.
These criteria produce a number which becomes the window’s energy rating. The higher the number, the better your windows perform across these criteria, which translates to higher energy efficiency. Most ENERGY STAR windows are between 25 and 35 points.
Keep in mind that most fixed windows have higher ER results than operating windows. They have more glass and less frame area, meaning fewer places air can leak from, and a bigger glass surface area for higher solar heat gain.
ER numbers are a good indication of the type of windows you should shop for. When comparing ER numbers, do so for the same window type since different types have varying ER numbers and targets.
How to Tell If a Window is Energy Efficient
An energy-efficient window will have the ENERGY STAR logo. This is a blue seal of approval, proving that the window went through testing and meets industry-accepted ENERGY STAR standards.
All Clera windows are ENERGY STAR-certified windows, ensuring your home benefits from their energy efficiency year-round.
Financial Benefits of Energy-Efficient Windows
Installing energy-efficient windows offers real-world financial benefits. Ontario homeowners can benefit from energy bill savings, better ROI and home resale value, and rebates and tax credits.
ENERGY STAR Windows and Energy Savings
ENERGY STAR-rated windows are 20% more efficient than regular windows. They help keep your home cooler during summer and warmer during winter, resulting in lower energy bills year-round.
During summer months:
- Low-E coating protects your home from intense sunrays
- UV treatment filters UV radiation to keep your home cooler
During winter:
- Argon air insulation prevents heat from escaping in cold winter temperatures.
- Double or triple glazing with vinyl or fibreglass frames reduces heat transfer and eliminates any gaps that allow warm air to escape or cool drafts to enter.
Return on Investment and Higher Home Value
ENERGY STAR-certified windows not only pay for themselves over time but also start to save you money in the long term.
Window replacement is considered one of the top five home improvement projects with the highest returns. By replacing your old windows with new, vinyl or wooden window replacements, your home becomes more efficient and attractive, boosting its value and curb appeal. You’ll end up with a return on investment if you intend to sell.
Energy Rebates and Tax Incentives
New window installations can be costly; Fortunately, Ontario homeowners can take advantage of tax credits and window rebates to help with the overall cost.
- Ontario Energy Rebates: This program offers rebates to homeowners who have taken the steps to make their homes more energy efficient. After an assessment, you could earn up to $10,000 in rebates.
- Home Renovation Savings: This partnership between Enbridge Gas and Save on Energy helps Ontarians improve their home energy efficiency and comfort with options to upgrade their home with savings.
- Independent Electricity System Operator: This home construction program seeks to incentivize contractors to build energy-efficient homes in Ontario. It encourages builders and renovators to install ENERGY STAR-certified products during new construction or renovation work anywhere in the province.
Initial Energy Efficient Windows Cost
Although the initial cost of energy-efficient windows is higher than that of non-energy-efficient windows, the long-term savings and advantages make it worthwhile. The initial cost can range from $250 to over $1,000 per window installation. It varies depending on various considerations like:
- window type
- size
- materials used
- special features
- professional installation
Complete window replacements for a standard home with 10 to 15 windows will likely cost $3,000 to $8,000. A larger home or a project needing premium materials will likely cost $10,000 to $20,000, or more.
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Carbon Footprint Benefits
Aside from monthly costs, many Ontario homeowners aim to reduce their carbon footprint. Energy-efficient windows can help you reach this sustainability goal. Installing these types of windows achieves three key benefits in reducing the carbon footprint.
1. Reduces Energy Consumption
Energy-efficient windows slow down heat transfer, so temperature remains consistent in your home and you’re less likely to crank the AC or blast the heat. Overall, this lowers energy consumption and demand.
2. Lowers Carbon Emissions
Lower energy demand means lower greenhouse gas emissions. If fossil fuels are being used to generate electricity, a home window upgrade reduces CO₂ output.
3. Improves Long-Term Sustainability
These windows are made with more sustainable materials such as recycled aluminum and fibreglass. They last longer than traditional windows, so fewer materials are manufactured and dumped in landfills.
Types of Windows that Support Energy Efficiency
All Clera windows support energy efficiency; however, some types of windows are better at it than others. For the most energy-efficient windows, choose from one of these types:
- Casement Windows: Casement windows open on a side hinge and offer superior seal capabilities. When wind hits, it causes the seal to tighten, prohibiting air transfer.
- Fixed or Picture Windows: Since these windows don’t open, they have the best seal. There are few to no gaps and cracks for heat transfer and air leakage.
- Awning Windows: Awning windows offer great visibility, smooth performance, and an airtight seal to ensure optimal performance.
How to Purchase Good Windows for Homes
Once you’re ready to purchase replacement windows, here’s how to do it:
Narrow Down Your Top Window Replacement Considerations
First, decide what you want your home to look and feel like. Answer these questions to determine the type of window you should purchase:
- How much visible light do you want to see?
- Do you want to feel the sun’s heat or keep it as blocked out as possible?
- Do you need operable windows everywhere or just in some places?
- Do you want to fill your house with natural light?
- Are you concerned with heating and cooling costs?
Check Product Specifications
Find a Reputable Window Company
Knowing where to buy windows is key to getting high-quality products and services you can trust. Choose a reputable fenestration company bearing the blue ENERGY STAR seal. Consider the following factors:
- Warranty Length: Look for a lifetime warranty for hassle-free repairs and maintenance
- Number of Years in Business: Proves long-lasting customer satisfaction and local trust
- Company Accreditations: Ensures reliable, standardized processes, from manufacturing to installation
- Customer Support: Fast, responsive, and local support always available to assist
- Client Testimonials: Should reflect an overall positive customer experience and top-notch quality in products and services.
Where possible, purchase from a company that both manufactures and installs its windows, like Clera Windows + Doors. We remove the middleman and ensure proper installation for all types of windows, ensuring reliable local service you can depend on for years to come.
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ENERGY STAR Windows FAQs
Key Takeaways on Windows and Energy Efficiency
- Energy-efficient windows use multiple glass panes, argon gas, low-E coating, and innovative window frames and spacers to perform optimally.
- These windows undergo rigorous testing and are assigned an energy rating number, which determines their level of efficiency. If they’re approved, they’re given the ENERGY STAR seal.
- Installing energy-efficient windows offers financial gain to the homeowner. You’ll spend less on monthly utility bills, get an ROI and higher resale value of your home, and receive rebates.
- The initial cost of installing new energy-efficient windows is higher than that of regular windows, but their long-term savings potential is far greater.
- There are also carbon footprint benefits, such as using less energy, lowering carbon emissions, and using sustainable window frame materials.
- Casement, awning, and fixed/picture windows are some of the best options when it comes to choosing an energy-efficient window.
- It’s best to work with a reputable company that homeowners love to ensure high-quality products, installation, and customer service.
ENERGY STAR-Certified New Windows For Your Ontario Home
At Clera Windows + Doors, we offer ENERGY STAR-certified windows at factory-direct prices, helping you save without skimping on quality and energy efficiency. Our expert teams manufacture our products right in our factory, so you avoid store markups while receiving localized service and reliable workmanship.
We’re here for the Ontario homeowner. Let us help you take your home to the next level of efficiency, comfort, and profitability with energy-efficient windows.
Contact us to start reaping the rewards of a window upgrade.
