Energy efficiency is one of the most important things when it comes to replacement windows in Costa Mesa, CA. Your windows’ energy efficiency makes a big impact on how comfortable your home is, and how big of an effect you make on the environment. Also, energy efficient replacement windows can help you save money on your energy bill.

But how do you make sure that your replacement windows are energy efficient for your home and climate? Most windows are conveniently labeled with their energy efficiency ratings to make it easier for you to quickly determine which one is right for you home.

The National Fenestration Rating Council, or NFRC, rates and certifies most windows on the market. The NFRC then gives them labels to help you make an informed decision when shopping for either replacement or new construction windows. While these labels don’t tell you which windows to buy outright, they do provide general but clear information, so you’re better equipped to make the right choice.

NFRC labels on replacement windows give helpful ratings and information like:

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient – Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, or SHGC, is the amount of solar radiation that any particular window emits through both absorption and inward release. A low SHGC means that window transmits low amounts of solar heat, meaning it has good shading ability. Get low SHGC energy efficient vinyl windows if you live in particularly sunny climates, but high SHGC windows if you live in areas with lots of clouds or rain.
U-Value – U-Value is the measure of the rate of non-solar heat gain or loss, typically through a material or construction choice. Tests to determine a window’s U-Value are generally conducted in simulated environments with 0-degree temperatures outside, 70 degrees inside and a 15 mile per hour wind speed. The lower a U-Value a window has, the more resistant it is to heat flow and the better it is at insulating your home.
Visible Transmittance – Visible transmittance, or VT, is the percentage of visible light that a window transmits. In other words, it shows the amount of daylight an energy efficient vinyl window lets in. For example, a .55 VT window lets in 55% visible light. Since light is energy and energy is heat, lower VT rating mean cooler homes in sunny environments.

Remember, different kinds of energy efficient windows with different ratings are more suited to climates and areas than others. Visit the Energy Star or NFRC website for a list of what ratings are ideal for the Costa Mesa, CA area so you can be better prepared before you go shopping for your new windows.

Do you have more questions about energy efficiency, or do you want to learn more about Costa Mesa, CA replacement windows? Can-Do Windows & Doors is here to help. Please stop by and visit us at 1241 E Warner Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92705 or give us a call at (714) 752-3407 for more information on what we can do for you. Find us on the web to find out what services we can do for you.