Energy Star ratings for windows are important in Ontario because they can significantly impact the energy efficiency of a home or building. In Ontario, as in many other regions, heating and cooling costs can be a significant expense for homeowners and businesses, especially during extreme weather conditions.
Windows are a key component of a building’s envelope, which helps to regulate the transfer of heat and cold between the interior and exterior. Energy-efficient windows can help to reduce the amount of heat that is lost during the winter and prevent excess heat gain during the summer. This, in turn, can help to lower energy consumption, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and lower energy bills.
Energy Star ratings for windows
Energy Star ratings for windows in Ontario are a useful tool for consumers because they provide a standardized measure of a window’s energy efficiency. The Energy Star program is a government-backed initiative that provides a label for products that meet specific energy efficiency criteria. Energy Star rated windows are required to meet minimum standards for U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), which are key metrics for measuring a window’s insulation properties and ability to block heat from the sun.
In Ontario, there are various incentive programs available for homeowners and businesses that purchase and install Energy Star rated windows. These programs can provide financial incentives, such as rebates or tax credits, to help offset the cost of purchasing and installing energy-efficient windows. Additionally, some municipalities in Ontario have implemented building codes and bylaws that require new construction or major renovations to meet certain energy efficiency standards, including the use of Energy Star rated windows.
Overall, Energy Star ratings for windows are important in Ontario because they can help to lower energy consumption, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and lower energy bills. By choosing Energy Star rated windows, consumers can help to create a more sustainable future while also enjoying the benefits of improved comfort and cost savings.
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Energy Star ratings
U-factor
One of the essential performance ratings for windows is the U-factor. This rating measures the window's insulation properties and its ability to prevent heat from escaping through the glass and frame. A lower U-factor means better insulation, which can help to reduce heating costs in cold weather.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)
Another critical rating is the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), which measures the amount of heat that passes through the window from the sun. A lower SHGC rating means that the window is more effective at blocking solar heat and preventing excess heat gain during the summer, which can help to reduce cooling costs.
Visual Transmittance(VT)
Visual Transmittance is also an important performance rating that measures the amount of visible light that passes through the window. Higher visual transmittance ratings allow for more natural light to enter the building, which can reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day and improve the overall ambiance of the space.
The Energy Rating of a window provides an overall score that takes into account the U-factor, SHGC, and air leakage. This rating helps consumers to compare the energy efficiency of different window products and make an informed choice.
Overall, Energy Star ratings for windows are important in Ontario because they can help to lower energy consumption, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and lower energy bills. By choosing Energy Star rated windows, consumers can help to create a more sustainable future while also enjoying the benefits of improved comfort and cost savings.
Each window opening is eligible for a grant from of up to $250, up to a maximum of $5,000. Click here for more info.
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Searchable product list | Natural Resources Canada (nrcan.gc.ca)