Are you planning to change your windows for more energy efficient

units? New innovations in technology have given us many emerging new

products which offer various benefits for homeowners. What are energy

efficient windows? These are the new types of windows which use high

performance glass and high quality frames which help lower your

heating and cooling costs.

What are the known advantages of using energy efficient windows?

" Ability to block harmful sun rays. It is a fact that too much

exposure to sun can be harmful not only to your health but to

valuables inside your house too. Furniture constantly exposed to sun

rays can discolour in time and so like other things including your

wood floor, furniture fabric, pictures, and more. Overexposure to

Ultraviolet rays can be harmful to humans and can even lead to serious

diseases like cancer. An energy efficient window uses glass with low

emittance coatings which allow the reduction of
radiative heat transfer.

" Helps reduce condensation. When the temperature gets too cold or

when it reaches the freezing point, condensation usually occurs along

the window sill. Moisture creates many potential problems including

growth of mold and musty smell. These are often causes of sickness in

the family which can be reduced when using energy efficient windows.

These types of windows utilize technologically advanced frames and

special glass coatings which minimize condensation.

" Reduce energy cost. By reducing the amount of sunlight entering your

home you will be able to lower air conditioning cost during summer. On

the other hand these types of windows reduce heat loss at home

therefore you enjoy better energy efficiency, better insulation, and

warmer space during the winter season.

Before going to the supplier and order new windows to replace your old

units you should consider several tips. These tips will provide you

better idea on what energy efficient windows to buy for your home.

Consider Your Home Design

Home design, window size and direction are important considerations

when buying windows with energy efficient qualities. In warm regions,

you should choose windows which are heavily glazed especially if these

are facing south. This will allow you to efficiently use the solar

heat during the cold winter season. Those living in colder regions

should install windows which possess low solar heat gain coefficient.

This is very important especially for windows facing the north.

Choose The Right Window Frames

For better insulation, consider using either composite frame or

fibreglass. These types of frame materials do not conduct too much

heat from the interior and therefore you avoid losing heat. On the

other hand wooden frames should be avoided in areas where there is

high fluctuation of temperature. Instead use wood laminate frames

since these do not expand or contract when temperature changes.

Finally, know the perfect type of glass for your location. There are

different types of glasses used in energy efficient windows. You

should know which one is perfect for your specific use. Homes in warm

regions are better off with glass filled and tinted glass windows.

These offer better insulation and help lower the U-factor. On the

other hand glaze glass is a good choice if you are living in cooler

areas. This type of glass helps retain heat and offer you better

energy efficiency.