How Do Energy-Efficient Windows Save Energy?

When it comes to thermal performance, energy-efficient windows are equipped with more than meets the eye. They feature a number of energy-saving components that are either imperceptible or located within the window and thus out of sight. To understand how energy-efficient windows actually save energy, let’s take a closer look at some of those fundamental components.

Insulated Glass Systems

Perhaps the most important component of an energy-efficient window is its glazing system. Most modern energy-efficient windows feature a dual-pane system of two individual pieces of glass separated by spacers. Between these panes of glass is a pocket of inert gas—usually argon or krypton—which provides a layer of transparent insulation that won’t block sunlight from entering your home or obstruct your view of the outside. What’s more, the panes in an energy-efficient window are not ordinary glass. They’re typically what’s referred to as Low-E, or low-emissivity, glass, which means they are coated with many microscopic layers of metal. These metal coatings reduce heat transfer by reflecting rather than absorbing the sun’s rays.

Low-Conductivity Frames

If you’ll recall from science class, metal is an excellent conductor of heat. While this property makes it an ideal material for pots and pans, it makes it much less ideal for window frames. Sure, metal is strong and durable, and metal windows often last a long time, but in the winter, metal frames absorb the toasty warmth from inside your home and transfer it outside. Likewise, in the summer, they transfer more heat from outside into your home. Vinyl is a preferred material for the frames of energy-efficient windows because it is much less conductive than metal and has natural insulating properties.

Insulation & Weatherstripping

Not only is vinyl a less conductive material than metal, and therefore contributes less to energy loss, but the insides of the vinyl frames on energy-efficient windows are also filled with insulation to provide even more protection against heat transfer. Common frame-insulating materials include polyurethane foam and high-density carbonized polystyrene. Along with insulation, energy-efficient windows also feature additional weatherstripping components which provide a secure seal against air infiltration.

Want to Learn More?

To learn more about how energy-efficient windows save energy, contact the professionals at American Home Design. We offer top-of-the-line energy-efficient vinyl windows from Preservation. These windows are proven to help cut heating and cooling costs and they can make your home much more comfortable year-round. Every Preservation Window we install is designed to provide many years of worry-free enjoyment and is backed by a lifetime warranty. Contact us today to get started!

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