When it comes to replacing windows, homeowners have more choices than ever. Advances in window technology have resulted in the development of glass windows that are more efficient than ever. Choosing the right windows based on your geographical location can help you reduce your energy consumption and save money. Here is a basic guide to Energy Star climate zones for replacement windows.
What Are the Energy Star Climate Zones?
Energy Star divides replacement windows into four categories, based on the region of the country in which they are most effective. To that end, the Energy Star climate zones are Northern, North-Central, South-Central, and Southern. Michigan is located in the Northern climate zone, according to Energy Star.
Which Windows Work Best in Which Climate Zones?
Each climate zones poses its own challenges for homeowners. For example, in the Southern region, where it tends to be warmer, windows that block more sunlight are preferable, as they help keep the indoor temperature down. In the colder Northern region, the best windows are the ones that help you insulate and prevent warm air from escaping your home.
How Are Windows Evaluated?
Each Energy Star window is evaluated based on criteria that make it ideal for its respective region. A window’s U-factor measures the rate of heat transfer and tells you how well a particular window insulates. The SHGC or Solar Heat Gain Coefficient indicates how well a window blocks heat from entering your home. Visible Transmittance or VT measures the amount of natural light that enters your home, while Air Leakage or AL indicates the rate at which air passes through the joints of a window.
With the help of the Energy Star climate zones, you can choose the replacement windows that are best suited for your home. In Michigan, Energy Star windows tend to have a lower U-Factor, which results in less heat transfer from the inside of your home to the outdoors. To learn more about finding the best replacement windows for your home, call Wallside Windows at (313) 908-5243.
