Energy-efficient windows are a crucial component of conserving electricity and lowering home energy costs. They reduce heat loss during the cold months and reduce solar heat gain during the summer.
The most important consideration when choosing a new window is its SHGC rating. Miami is located in a hurricane zone and requires robust protection from high winds and flying debris.
Insulation
For Florida homeowners, energy efficiency is a major consideration. The state’s climate often involves extreme heat and humidity, making insulation a crucial component of any home. The right windows can help regulate indoor temperatures, reducing the amount of energy required to keep homes cool.
In addition to insulation, hurricane impact windows offer significant storm protection. They are shatter proof, allowing you to forget about putting up shutters or plywood come hurricane season and giving your family peace of mind during severe weather.
The best energy-efficient impact windows Miami FL feature a low U-factor rating, which measures the window’s insulating power, and a low Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), which refers to how much of the sun’s rays can enter the home. These ratings are important in a hot, humid area like Miami where energy costs tend to be more expensive. Rigorous testing and quality assurance procedures ensure that the energy-efficient impact windows you choose meet high standards for performance in your home.
Low-E Glass
Low-E is a type of coating that is applied to windows to reduce energy transfer. It works by absorbing and remitting UV and infrared light while letting visible light pass through. In other words, it prevents the sun’s harmful rays from entering your home and damaging items like carpets, curtains and furniture.
It also prevents condensation on your windows by reducing the rate of heat exchange. This makes it perfect for hot climates like South Florida.
The best way to ensure you’re buying energy efficient windows is by checking their NFRC label. This certification shows that the window or door has passed tests by the National Fenestration Rating Council and meets government energy efficiency standards. Also, look for a Miami-Dade NOA (Notice of Acceptance) certification which indicates they have been tested for high wind resistance and can resist damage from debris during a hurricane. This is crucial for homeowners located in hurricane zones.
UV Protection
The sun’s harmful UV rays can fade your furniture, artwork and flooring over time. Energy-efficient impact windows have built-in UV protection that prevents the transfer of these rays from outside into your home, preserving furnishings and reducing maintenance costs.
A low-emissivity coating on the window’s glass allows visible light to pass through while blocking infrared heat and ultraviolet rays. This keeps your home cool in the sweltering Florida summers and reduces your reliance on air conditioning.
Look for the ENERGY STAR certification, which indicates that the windows meet stringent standards for energy efficiency. Also, make sure the windows are properly installed to avoid gaps that compromise insulation and security. A reputable installer will inspect the windows and address any problems immediately. ENERGY STAR certified windows should be durable enough to withstand Florida’s extreme weather conditions.
Energy Efficiency
Many homeowners in Florida still have single-pane windows installed. These old windows allow significant amounts of heat to enter a home during the summer, increasing energy costs and creating a less comfortable living space.
Replacing these single-pane windows with high-performance impact windows will reduce energy bills and save money over time. In addition, these windows will help protect furniture, flooring and artwork from fading due to harmful UV rays.
The best energy efficient impact windows Miami FL have low U-factors, indicating better insulation properties. In hot and humid climates like Miami, this is an important factor as it limits the amount of direct sunlight that passes through the window and into a home.
Additionally, ENERGY STAR certified windows have been tested to meet stringent standards and are verified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label. This allows homeowners to compare products and choose the best energy efficient impact windows for their homes.