Home » Blog » Windows » New ENERGY STAR® Specifications for Windows and Doors

New ENERGY STAR® Specifications for Windows and Doors

the3rdestimate

Posted:

Energy-efficient windows and doors are essential for saving energy, reducing bills, and ensuring a comfortable living environment. On October 23, 2023, the ENERGY STAR® program introduced new criteria for doors and windows to ensure that they meet stringent energy efficiency standards. In this blog, we’ll break down what you need to know about these requirements and why they matter for your window upgrades.

Understanding Energy Star 7.0 Requirements for Windows and Doors

Energy Star 7.0 sets new standards for energy-efficient windows and doors based on different climate zones. Here’s a breakdown of the new requirements for each zone:

For context, U-Factor measures the rate of heat transfer through a window. It quantifies how effective a window is at insulating and preventing heat from escaping a building. The lower the U-Factor, the better a window is at insulating. SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient) is the measure of the fraction of solar radiation that enters through a window and is released as heat into the building. A high SHGC allows more solar heat energy to pass through the window.

These requirements are tailored to ensure your windows and door perform optimally in your specific climate, offering better insulation and solar heat management.

Why Energy Star 7.0 Matters

Energy-efficient windows and doors are a wise investment for several reasons:

  • Lower Energy Bills: They reduce energy consumption, leading to lower utility bills.
  • Enhanced Comfort: They provide better insulation and solar heat management, improving home comfort.
  • Environmental Benefits: Reduced energy use means a smaller environmental footprint.
  • Resale Value: Energy-efficient upgrades can increase your home’s resale value.

Additionally, the Energy Star program offers tax credits to incentivize these upgrades. The 25C tax credit is now extended through 2032, offering no lifetime limits and a 30% credit on product costs. The Energy-Efficient Home Improvement Credit also provides valuable incentives. Here is a breakdown of both:

(Image: Provia)

If you want to qualify for tax credit for new windows or doors, they must adhere to the new standards set by Energy Star 7.0. For more information regarding tax credit, you can reference the IRS form here

By choosing windows that meet Energy Star 7.0 requirements, you’re making a positive impact on your finances, your home’s comfort, and the environment.

Energy Star 7.0 requirements empower homeowners to make energy-efficient window choices tailored to their climate zone. By selecting windows that meet these criteria, you’ll enjoy energy savings, a more comfortable home, and a reduced environmental footprint. Plus, with valuable tax credits in place, now is the perfect time to get an estimate and upgrade your windows to enjoy the benefits of a more energy-efficient home.

Related Content

Home curb appeal

Increase Curb Appeal To Increase Home Value

Spring and early summer is peak real estate season in the U.S. with most new houses entering the market in April. A major selling ...

Picture of large residential home exterior.

Jump-Start Your Home Design Ideas Without the Home Show Crowds

Discover a Smarter Way to Plan Your Exterior Remodel Attending a home show to gather inspiration for your exterior remodel can feel like a ...

The Lifespan of Residential Windows: What Every Homeowner in Northeast Ohio Should Know

How Long Will Your Windows Last? Windows are a critical part of your home. They provide natural light, insulation, and curb appeal. But as ...

How Your Windows Reflect Your Personality: A Homeowner’s Style Guide

Windows are more than just functional features of your home; in fact, they’re the eyes to your space, the frames of your view, and ...