Energy-efficient replacement windows come with two prominent benchmarks — ENERGY STAR® and the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). Although both are crucial for evaluating window performances, they serve different purposes. In today’s article, Renewal by Andersen® of Sacramento discusses the difference between these two to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding ENERGY STAR Certification
ENERGY STAR is a widely recognized symbol for energy efficiency — a mark of trust for consumers. Windows that bear the ENERGY STAR logo have been independently verified to meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These guidelines are designed to help consumers save money on their energy bills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
ENERGY STAR-certified windows must be adept at insulating homes during the wide range of temperatures experienced throughout the year. In short, when you choose ENERGY STAR-certified windows, you’re selecting products proven to deliver significant energy savings.
The Role of the NFRC
While ENERGY STAR indicates overall energy performance and compliance with EPA guidelines, the NFRC provides a more detailed look at the energy performance of windows. The NFRC’s label can be found on all ENERGY STAR-certified fenestrations, providing a standardized method of comparing windows, doors, and skylights.
The NFRC’s energy performance ratings provide specific measurements of a product’s energy-related properties, such as U-factor (the window’s insulating qualities), solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), visible transmittance (VT), and air leakage. Such specific metrics allow for a side-by-side assessment of different window products, offering consumers a deeper understanding of how well a window will perform in a particular climate.
Balancing Cost and Efficiency
Investing in energy-efficient windows provides long-term cost savings on energy bills. While ENERGY STAR helps you quickly identify products that will offer energy savings, the NFRC label presents the finer details that can affect the overall cost-effectiveness of your window choice. Homeowners can use NFRC ratings to compare the potential energy savings of different types of windows, evaluating which investment offers the best balance between initial cost and long-term energy savings.
For Energy-Efficient Windows, Look No Further!
Renewal by Andersen of Sacramento is committed to providing quality windows that meet the high standards set by ENERGY STAR and the NFRC. We understand the distinct roles these certifications play in guiding consumers toward making energy-efficient choices that suit their geographical location and specific needs. Give us a call at (916) 779-5800, or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation in Sacramento and the neighboring CA regions.
