Performance Ratings – How They Work
Developed by the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Energy Star program helps highlight the most energy efficient options for your home. The Energy Star seal can only be granted if the product clearly demonstrates a considerable reduction in the home’s energy consumption. Most of our windows and doors meet this strict criterion and many even exceed them according to U.S. and Canadian standards.
U-Factor
The U-Factor refers to the amount of energy conducted by a particular material. The lower the U-Factor, the better the insulation, which means less heat loss. This means that the warm air will remain inside your home during the winter and thereby lower your heating costs. A good U-Factor rating is 0.35 or less.
Solar Heat Gain
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) is the measurement used to indicate the amount of solar radiation that the material transmits. By reducing the UV absorption of the window in the summer, southern climates are able to enjoy a low SHGC. This is an extremely effective way of ensuring that your air conditioner doesn’t work as hard and, therefore, you save on your energy bill!
Energy Ratings (ER)
A window’s overall ER rating is based on three factors:
– Solar heat gain.
– Heat loss through glass, spacers and frames.
– Air leaks.
A positive numerical system is the basis for these ratings.
Energy Star Compliance
Developed by the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Energy Star program helps highlight the most energy efficient options for your home. The Energy Star seal can only be granted if the product clearly demonstrates a considerable reduction in the home’s energy consumption. Our products have undergone rigorous testing in order to obtain the appropriate certification from an accredited NFRC independent laboratory.
Structural Compliance
Quantum window products have all been tested by an independent third party. Our products have been found to at least meet or even exceed AAMA and CAN-CAS-A440-98 performance standards.
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