Energy efficiency has become a standard requirement for custom homeowners. With energy costs on the rise, homeowners are looking for ways to reduce utility bills. If you are one such homeowner, then you need to know that windows offer the perfect opportunity to reduce energy costs. Notably, window manufacturers today are creating state-of-the-art windows that enhance indoor lighting and ventilation thereby saving costs. This article provides expert advice on features that make a window to be energy-efficient.
Low Emissivity Glass -- The ability for a window glass to absorb or reflect radiant energy tells a lot about its energy efficiency levels. The reason is that the insulation on a glass dictates the window's emissivity levels. Ideally, the best energy-efficient windows have a low-emissivity glass. The glass maximises the sun's heat in winter but minimises the sun's glare in summer. Therefore, you should look for windows that are treated with low emissivity glazing to keep energy costs down. Identification of low emissivity glass requires technical know-how, but you can always ask a manufacturer for assistance -- a reputable firm will help you out with your search.
Gas-Filled Panes -- Double-pane windows are more energy-efficient than single-pane windows thanks to the air between the panes. However, although regular air is an excellent insulation element, some gases perform better as window insulators. For instance, inert gases like argon, krypton and xenon are best at slowing down heat conductivity between window panes. It can be attributed to the compact nature of the above gases; therefore, the gases are good at impeding the transfer of cold or heat from the outside to the inside of the house. Therefore, make sure that the windows you buy are filled with inert gases rather than regular air to help you lower utility bills.
The material of Edge Spacers -- In double-paned windows, it is essential for the space between the window panes to be kept constant for the gases in between to provide adequate insulation. It is achieved through the installation of warm edge spacers. However, the material of the edge spacers can impact on the energy efficiency capabilities of a window. For example, if you choose a window with metallic spacers, then the spacers will promote some level of heat transfer even if it is on a low level. Therefore, you should only buy windows that are equipped with edge pacers that are made of non-metallic material such as acrylic.
For more information on finding and using Renson windows, contact your local suppliers.