Windows contribute greatly to your thermal comfort and energy efficiency. That’s why you should always take their energy performance into account when getting new ones for your home. Almost all windows, for example, are rated for their solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). This refers to how windows react in relation to sunlight and solar heat. You can usually check the SHGC rating of a window by looking for its black and white National Fenestration Rating Council® (NFRC) label, which works to help consumers pick more energy-efficient products for their needs.
A low SHGC rating means the window will only be able to transmit a small amount of solar heat. But if a window has a higher SHGC rating, it will be able to admit more solar heat into your home. A good SHGC rating for your windows varies by location. For instance:
- Pick windows with a low SHGC rating if you live somewhere warm. In regions with a predominantly warm climate, like the South, it’s more beneficial to choose low-SHGC windows because they help the home stay cooler for longer periods. Pick ones that have a SHGC rating less than 0.27.
- Go for windows with a high SHGC rating if you live somewhere cold. Northern regions tend to need more internal heat. Because of the cold, you’ll need to get windows with a higher SHGC rating (about 0.30 up to 0.60) to optimize the passive solar radiation they can provide.
- Choose windows with an average SHGC rating if you live somewhere with a mixed climate. The Northeastern and Midwestern regions get warm summers and cold winters. Because homes in these areas use both cooling and heating, the better choice for windows are those that have about 0.40 SHGC rating.
Incomparable Window Replacement Service in Philadelphia
You need not look any further than Renewal by Andersen® of Greater Philadelphia for the most energy-saving replacement windows available in the region. Give us a call today at (610) 563-2190, or fill out this contact form to request a comprehensive window estimate. We proudly serve homeowners in Philadelphia, PA, and other areas in New Jersey.
