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How Efficient Are Your Windows?

Not all windows in Eveleth, MN, are created equal. When it comes to energy savings, in fact, high-efficiency windows can make a significant difference on your monthly heating or cooling bill. With summer right around the corner, there is no better time to consider replacing your old windows with more efficient models. Here’s how to tell how much your windows are saving you.

Windows With Higher R-Values Are Better Heat Resisters

A window’s R-value lets you determine how well the glass resists the flow of heat. In general, higher R-values correlate to better insulation. Because an R-value only applies to the glass itself and not the rest of the window, neither Energy Star nor the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) recognizes this measurement.

Windows With Lower U-Values Are More Efficient

A number both organizations do utilize to calculate window efficiency is the U-value. The U-value is considered the most important gauge for performance, as it measure the rate of heat flow through a window. You want to get your U-value as low as possible. The lower the figure, the higher your energy-efficiency. Contractors trust this number because it takes into account the entire window unit, not just the glass.

Zero Is Hero for Solar Heat Gain

Another figure to be aware of is the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). This number tells you how well your windows are doing at blocking sunlight and heat. A window’s SHGC is measured on a scale of zero and one. The closer your SHGC is to zero, the more heat and sunlight it blocks. If your SHGC is closer to one, you may be a great candidate for window replacement in Virginia, MN.

These are three of the best ways to determine your energy efficiency. Ask your trusted contractor how new windows in Aurora, MN, could save you money on your monthly cooling bill.