The Energy Star rating signifies that the product will use less energy than products without the rating. Most people have seen the Energy Star label on washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters, but many people don't realize that Energy Star windows can save a significant amount of money while protecting your home from sun damage.
Saving Money with Energy Star
Many are bothered by products and ideas that are considered "Green". But recently, Green products have shown their value by out performing other products while saving large sums of money. Equipping a home throughout with Energy Star rated products can save $1000 a year, and in some cases more than that.
Energy Star rated windows can save a home as much as $350/year if the home had single-paned windows, and $70/year if already equipped with double-paned windows. This amount is what can be saved each year, not just over the lifetime of the windows.
Sun Damaged Floors and Sun Damaged Furniture
Typical windows don't offer any protection from the sun's brutal rays, and if you live in an area of the country where the sun is particularly intense, you most likely have noticed the color has faded on your hardwood floors, carpets, walls, and even furniture.
Energy Star windows can come with a film or tinting that can block those fading rays by up to 75%, while still allowing sunlight and heat to enter. On top of protecting your home's interior from fading, these windows also buffer the heat that is allowed to come through, making your home a comfortable place to be year round.
Many homes in the southern regions of the United States have to use blinds most of the day, on both sides of the house, to protect their home's interior from the sun damage and the heat. Energy Star Windows will block 75% of the potential sun damage. These windows give the freedom for homeowners to enjoy the outdoor view without paying the price of too much light and heat.
When to Invest in Energy Star Windows
There are a few occasions when it makes absolute sense to install windows with the Energy Star Rating, and, of course, there are most likely some where it makes no sense at all. Here are some ideas:
If you are already considering new windows, and your energy bills are higher than you think they should be or want them to be, this choice will pay for itself much more quickly than any other product.
If your home is constantly drafty during the cooler months and way too hot during the summer, these windows can dampen this effect and save at the same time.
Window replacement has a very high return on investment rating. If these windows replacements are Energy Star rated, you can also show a prospective buyer their potential saving and lower bills before he even moves in. Even more so if the home is outfitted with several Energy Star appliances.
Matt Myers is a freelance writer for the home maintenance and remodeling industry. Formerly a contractor specializing in deck building and casework, Matt has written over 500 articles for both homeowners and contractors.
© Copyright 1999-2008, ServiceMagic, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Digg 
Reddit
Del.icio.us
