Posts Tagged ‘windows’

Why US Dept. of Energy RecommendsLow E Windows

If you have been shopping around for window replacement, you may have come across the term Low E windows. And you might see a very significant difference in the price tag. It is true that Low E windows have steeper price than regular windows of similar type but only because it is a lot more energy efficient than regular windows. In the long run you would see just how significant your energy savings would be. If you own your home or you are planning to live in the same address for several years then consider making this investment. According to the US Department of Energy, Low E windows can save you to up to 50% of your total energy consumption as it provides the best insulation, which reduces your need to use the HVAC system.

What is low e window and how does it works?

First, E stands for “emissivity”. Low emissivity windows or Low E windows are especially designed to lower down the amount of heat transferred from the exterior to the interior. These windows are coated with invisible metal or metal oxide to both or to one of its surfaces. With double glazed windows for example, these windows have coating on both sides of the glass. This prevents heat and cold from being transferred from the interior and the exterior of your home. The coating also acts as a barrier that holds infrared rays from passing through the glass inside the home.

Low and High Solar Gain

Solar gain is the amount of heat that your window allows to enter your home. If you are living in a hot climate, it is best if you choose windows with low solar gain to minimize the heat that enters your home. If you are from colder climate, use low solar gain to absorb as much heat as you can to warm up your interior. Consequently, if you have windows that are facing the south consider using windows with low solar gain and high solar gain windows for your windows facing the north. Low E glass has different level of solar gain. This may be very confusing, that is why it is best to consult organizations rendering transom substitution service to know more about this.