What Are The Best Energy-Efficient Windows In Phoenix
When you live in a hot place like Phoenix, you can face very high energy bills, especially if you are losing cold air through your windows. That’s why energy-efficient windows are so important in warm climates. Reducing the transfer between inside and outside air becomes critical. In this article, we will discuss what to look for when selecting energy-efficient windows for your home and how to select the best insulated windows for your lifestyle and budget.
What are Energy-Efficient Windows?
Energy-inefficiency is one of the most common reasons why your electric bill can be extremely high. This is apparent in homes with lots of windows where the sun rays increase the heat inside the home – or when cool air escapes through poorly sealed windows. That’s why energy saving windows are so important.
Energy-efficient windows are specially designed to help maintain a consistent climate and temperature in your home. They act like a thermal shield to protect the home from heating up during warm sunny months when the sun bakes down on the windows. Energy-efficient windows also prevent precious cool air from escaping through the windows. In short, energy-efficient windows reduce heating inside a home during sunny weather while preventing air exchange.
Energy Saving Window Materials
Vinyl
Vinyl windows are typically less expensive, but that doesn’t mean that they can’t be energy efficient. A quality vinyl window with proper installation can be a great choice for both your budget and energy-efficiency. These windows can offer tight sealed and insulated glass to ensure your home is properly protected.
Aluminum
Aluminum windows offer many benefits, making them one of the best materials for well insulated windows. They provide a modern look and feel and offer the benefit of noise-blocking, too. These windows are also virtually maintenance-free and extremely durable.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass windows are less common, but are also energy efficient. Because fiberglass is made of literal glass fibers, it’s an extremely effective insulator and will reduce temperature changes inside your home.
The Best Insulated Window Styles
The style of window that you choose can also impact its ability to be energy-efficient. If you live in Phoenix and are remodeling your windows or installing new windows, consider these options to ensure you’re creating an energy-efficient environment.
Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows are a very traditional style of window where the bottom slides up on a track to open the window. They can be an efficient choice, but might not be the best option for extreme heat and cold.
Casement Windows
Casement windows are windows that can be opened horizontally on a hinge. These windows are more modern, and have a really tight seal that closes with a crank. They do an excellent job of keeping out drafts, making them a star for energy saving window choices.
Picture Windows
Picture windows are a fixed window that doesn’t usually open. This means they have a strong seal, and, with the right glass choice, can be an energy-efficient window option while providing aesthetic appeal.
Glass Options for Energy-Efficient Windows
Low-E Glass
Low-E glass is glass that has been treated with an energy efficient coating. Low-E Glass stands for low emissivity glass, and can prevent both infrared and ultraviolet light from entering your windows but will still allow regular light in. The treated coating is very thin and is unnoticeable to the human eye. However, having this type of glass can make a huge difference in your home’s energy regulation, especially if you live in a hot area like Phoenix.
Insulated Glass vs. Non-Insulated Glass
Glass can also come in insulated or non-insulated panes. Insulated glass is basically glass made of two to three combined panes of glass with a bit of space in between them. The gaps in these panes are filled with krypton or argon gasses. These gasses prevent heat from transferring through the panes of glass.
Non-insulated glass is made of one or two panes of glass placed directly on top of each other. When the panes are situated on top of each other like this, heat is conducted much easier, meaning your home will also heat quicker as a result.
Energy-Efficient Window Terms to Know
U-Factor
U-Factor is a measurement that indicates how well a window is insulated against non-solar heat flow. When you’re shopping for windows, think of U-Factor as how well a window can stop heat transfer from its glass, frame, and other building materials. If the U-Factor is lower, that means your window is a better insulator for your home.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)
Solar heat gain coefficient is a term that measures how well a window is able to resist solar radiation from the sun. If your window is low in SHGC, that means it doesn’t allow much of the sun’s energy to pass through and heat the room. Windows lower in SHGC are the best windows for your home in hot, sunny climates like Phoenix.
Finding Energy-Efficient Windows Today
Choosing the best energy-efficient windows for your home in Phoenix is important so you can be comfortable in your home without an enormous electric bill. For homes in hotter climates, like Phoenix, energy saving windows are extremely important for the health of your home. Consider choosing window materials and features to support the Phoenix climate so your windows will keep you cooler longer.
If you’re looking for energy-efficient windows, contact us at AZ Valley Windows for a custom quote today. Our expert team of window professionals will supply you with the information you need to find the best windows for your home. Our windows have energy-saving features and are made from high-quality materials that look stylish and are built to last. Because we are locally owned, we understand the additional costs of living in Phoenix. Give our team a call to learn more about our energy-efficient window options in our service areas.
