Posted by James Desmond on Thu, Apr 29, 2010 @ 12:00 PM
Many people wonder what makes a replacement window more energy efficient than another, especially if they can't see any distinct differences? Basically, how well an energy-saving window performs depends on the construction of the window frame and the spacer material that separates the individual frames of glass inside the pane and the glass itself. Energy-efficient windows include modern technologies to reduce air flow and heat loss. These technologies include glazing, low-E coatings, low-U values, and gases such as krypton or argon between panes. There are many different types of Energy Efficient Windows advertised these days, but most of them barely make the Energy Star standard. Here are 5 categories of what to look for when shopping for an Energy Efficient Replacement Window:
1) Multiple Panes of Glass: Two panes of glass, with an air or gas-filled space in the middle, insulate much better than a single pane of glass. Some Energy Star qualified windows include 3 or more panes for even greater energy efficiency, increased impact resistance, and sound insulation.
2) Improved Frame Materials: Vinyl and Fiberglass frames reduce heat transfer and help insulate better.
3) Low-E Glass: Special coatings reflect infrared light, keeping heat inside in the winter and outside in the summer. They also reflect damaging ultraviolet light (UV rays), which help protect your interior furnishings from fading away.
4) Gas-Filled Windows: Some energy-efficient windows have argon, krypton, or other gases between the panes. These odorless, colorless, non-toxic gases insulate substantially better than regular air.
5) Warm Edge Spacers: A spacer keeps a window's glass pane the correct distance apart, today's warm edge spacers reduce heat flow and prevent condensation. We use a Duralite Spacer System which improves the total window R-value which reduces heat loss and saves money on energy bills.
To find out more information about Suburban's highest energy-efficient window, The HEAT MIRROR Replacement Window, please click here.
Posted by James Desmond on Tue, Apr 20, 2010 @ 02:18 PM
The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient indicates how well the product blocks solar radiation from the sun. The lower the SHGC, the less solar heat it transmits. The ENERGY STAR program has established specific criteria for replacement windows and doors for three climate zones in the US. It is recommended that you contact the manufacturer to ensure that the product is ENERGY STAR certified and that you check the U-value and SHGC numbers. To be eligible for ENERGY STAR certification, products must be rated, certified, and labeled for both U-value and SHGC in accordance with the procedures of the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) at levels that meet the ENERGY STAR qualification criteria in one or more climate zones.
Here at Suburban Windows and Siding we have an exclusive line on Heat Mirror Replacement Windows, which are currently the most advanced window on the market. Heat Mirror is a film-based technology where by a thin film coated to retard heat transfer is suspended between 2 pieces of glass and sealed into an integral glazing unit. Heat Mirror helps conserve fuel, save money and provide year round comfort in both commercial and residential buildings.To find out more information about the Heat Mirror technology, please click here.
Posted by James Desmond on Tue, Apr 13, 2010 @ 02:50 PM
It's about that time of the year for your annual Spring Cleanup! Here at Suburban Windows & Siding we have put together a Spring Cleaning checklist for anyone looking for interior and exterior objectives:
INDOORS:
- Wash Your Windows! (replace if necessary)
- Remove Storm Windows and Install Screens.
- Test your Air Conditioning.
- Clean or Replace Air-Conditioning Filter.
- Turn off the Humidifier.
- Install drapery on any windows that retain heat.
OUTDOORS:
- Clean debris and checkup on your Central Air System (if necessary).
- Caulk or Fill any areas where insects can get through your windows or doors.
- Hook up the garden hose and check for leaks.
- Wash your Siding (From top to bottom).
- Clean Gutters and Downspouts (Check for leaks).
- Install your window air conditioning units.
- Check your roof for any leaks or damage.
- Test your outdoor lighting, replace bulbs if necessary.
Posted by James Desmond on Tue, Apr 06, 2010 @ 12:08 PM
This week, an assembly of 45 different companies sent an open letter to President Obama stating that Americans need more information about their energy consumption in order to conserve it. The companies consisted of tech firms, telecoms, and environmental groups, such as Google and AT&T, who believe that Americans are uninformed on the energy they consume, where it comes from, and if they are using it efficiently. If properly informed, they believe that consumers could save up to $360 per person/per year on their energy bills.
Here at Suburban Windows & Siding we are continuously trying to help others improve their energy efficiency with several cost-effective home improvements. We have seen too many people paying "through the roof" in order to keep their homes comfortable during the winter and throughout the summer. We believe that energy efficient home improvements: replacement windows, replacement siding, replacement roofs, and replacement doors can make an outstanding difference in our community both economically and environmentally.
For example, faulty windows can account for around 30% of your heating loss in the winter, forcing your heating system to work harder, which then leads to unnecessarily higher energy bills. In the winter, warm air inside your house tries to move outside to colder air, and in the summer the warmer air outside tries to move inside. This process happens because windows are less efficient than other parts of your house such as the walls, the floor, and your roof. To find out more information about our most advanced energy-efficient replacement window, The Heat Mirror Window, please click here. Thanks!
