Do you want to save on your energy bills and optimize your home’s efficiency? ENERGY STAR is a program to help you do just that.
The program was launched by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which is now managed by both the EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy, with the shared goal of helping you save money while protecting the environment through energy efficient practices and products.
ENERGY STAR Impact Windows & Doors Qualifications
Their team of experts have developed several criteria for a product to be qualified and labeled ENERGY STAR, saying:
“ENERGY STAR qualified, windows, doors, and skylights:
Are manufactured by an ENERGY STAR partner,
Are independently tested, certified, and verified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), and
Have NFRC ratings that meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Though ENERGY STAR does not require any specific technologies, certain product features are common in many certified products. Windows, doors and skylights protect you from the elements just like a winter coat.
But like a winter coat, you should pick the windows, doors and skylights that make the most sense for your climate. While some windows, doors and skylights are better at keeping you warm, others excel at keeping you cool.”
How ENERGY STAR Products Benefits You
The obvious, and most prominent, benefits of installing ENERGY STAR certified impact windows and doors is that you’ll help save energy and money year over year.
ENERGY STAR certified impact windows and doors help insulate your home and create a tighter seal around the openings of your home; air leaks are just one of the more common energy wastes in a home and a large contributor to increased utility bills.
“Most homes in the United States don't have enough insulation and have significant air leaks. In fact, if you added up all the leaks, holes and gaps in a typical home's envelope, it would be the equivalent of having a window open every day of the year!” - ENERGY STAR
You’ll also enjoy improved overall comfort in your home from noise reduction, better humidity control, and less allergens entering your home.
Thinking about Replacing Your Impact Windows and Doors?
If you’re unsure how to start replacing your windows and doors for improved efficiency and savings in your home, this getting started guide from ENERGY STAR will help you.
You can also start by creating an energy profile for your home to receive custom recommendations from ENERGY STAR advisors to improve your home’s efficiency.
Learn more about aluminum and vinyl impact window performance and the EPA by clicking the button below!