How do our windows qualify for Energy Star?
Even though windows do not consume energy, they can be a significant source of heat loss in a home. Energy Star qualified products will save money by reducing your overall annual energy costs. They will also help keep your home more comfortable year-round.
Energy Star qualified, products must meet specific energy efficiency levels that have been set up for three climate zones in Canada. In addition, all products must be certified for their energy efficiency by an accredited agency.
The three climate zones were developed by using an average of the annual temperature. Windows are qualified for each zone by how well a window insulates against the cold and how well it uses the sun's heat to supplement the heating system of a home. Because the climate becomes progressively colder from Zone 1 to Zone 3, the levels are more stringent for each successive zone. This means that models that qualify for Zone 3 will also qualify for Zone 1 and 2.
When shopping for windows you will see window products that are rated on their U-factor and their Energy Rating (ER).
The U-factor is a measure of the rate of heat gain or loss due to the difference between indoor and outdoor air temperatures. The lower the number, the slower the heat loss.
The ER is a formula that includes the U-factor, air leakage and the benefit of potential solar gain. The higher the value, the higher the potential annual energy savings. However as much as the ER value indicates energy savings, homes in colder climates need a lower U-factor the most. A lower U-factor indicates better insulating properties. In Saskatchewan, a really high ER number may not be what you want. This usually comes with high solar heat gain, and as much as that may benefit you in the winter, imagine the discomfort and cooling costs you will experience in the summer with our long hot days. We always strive for year-round comfort and year-round energy savings.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) is a percentage of solar energy that is transferred indoors both directly and indirectly through the glass. The lower the SHGC, the less solar heat it transmits and the greater its shading ability. A product with a high SHGC rating is more effective at collecting solar heat during the winter. A product with a low SHGC rating is more effective at reducing cooling loads during the summer by blocking heat gain from the sun.
In Saskatchewan a low U value may be considered the most important factor when purchasing new windows for your home.
Windows are not normally assigned an R-Value when tested. Contractors and some window sales people may refer to an R value as a way to measure performance. R-value is a measure of resistance to the flow to heat. There is no formula to directly convert the ER value to an R-value.
We have had our windows tested three time since we started manufacturing in 2008. Once in 2009, again in 2016, and most recently in 2021. This testing is what lists us with NRCAN and allows us to be involved with the ENERGY STAR program.
In 2008 we made up and sent three different styles of windows to Intertek Testing Laboratories in Vancouver, British Columbia. These windows all larger in size, were to be tested to the new CSA A440 requirements in order to qualify for the Energy Star Program.
Windows were given a Performance Rating in each of the following categories:
We can proudly say that each of our windows that were tested scored with the highest ratings in each category.
We were very pleased that our small company achieved such outstanding results when testing our windows against larger North American Window Companies that didn't do as well!
In 2015 new Energy Star guidelines came out for windows to be Energy Star Certified. This meant that all window manufacturers had to retest their windows to the new test sizes and pressures to be in compliance with AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2./A440-08 & 11, and NAFS 08 & 11 and to the CSA A440S1 - 09 Canadian Supplement to AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440.
This time we had a 4th window style available, so we manufactured one of each of the 4 window styles and sent them to Intertek Testing Facilities in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Again, our windows tested extremely well, even in the commercial application class.
This time Performance Ratings were not given in the ABC ratings as in 2009. This time our windows were given a Performance Grade (which will be explained more in depth in the NAFS section). Having one of the Energy Star Most Efficient windows year after year is our commitment to you our customer.
In 2021, in conjunction with the Greener Homes Grant we had a number of glass simulations done to update our Energy Star listings with some new Low-E coatings, and options that have evolved and improved over time.
Ensure longevity and years of trouble-free operation and use a reputable company to prevent future headaches.
We still see customers replacing their windows with dual pane windows just because they are cheaper and ultimately look the same. Remember, you get what you pay for.
Although other windows may meet minimum requirement in your zone, Saskatchewan weather is very hard on all products, therefore requires well insulated, well sealing, high performance windows.
Dual pane windows will not provide the energy savings that triple pane windows will, and we do not recommend their use for ones living space in our climate.
Just because a product is certified and meets minimum government standards, does not make it the best choice for your home.
Don't overemphasize the ER rating, instead focus on the U Values. The goal is to SOLVE your window/home comfort problems combatting against a very unique and extreme Saskatchewan climate.
A higher ER rating typically will have a higher amount of solar heat gain. Its important to consider summer time performance as well as winter.