Windows Energy-Efficient Windows in Minneapolis & St. Paul, MN

Energy efficiency among windows in the Twin Cities varies wildly. Here’s what to Know to select the best.

energy performance label you would find on a window.Similar to how cars have a miles-per-gallon rating, windows have an energy rating to determine how efficient they are.

Fortunately, it’s easy to determine a window’s energy efficiency — almost everything you need to know about its efficiency is found on the NFRC label attached to it.

This label appears on all windows and is the only measurement accepted by the U.S. Department of Energy’s ENERGY STAR® program.

On the label, there are various ratings to consider when determining a window’s energy efficiency, from the amount of air leakage and heat transfer to the visible transmittance and condensation resistance.

Understanding the ratings can help you make an informed decision when choosing your window replacements.

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Consider the U-Factor When Choosing Energy-Efficient Windows

The NFRC label has multiple numbers that indicate different efficiency measurements. The most important number for replacement windows is the U-factor, which measures the rate of heat loss in a window.

The lower the U-factor, the better the window insulates and keeps your home warm in the winter.

Here’s what else you need to know about U-factor:

  • The optimal U-factor for windows in Minnesota is 0.30 or less. For superior energy efficiency, select windows with a U-factor of 0.25 or less.
  • A typical window that’s eight or more years old has an average U-factor of 0.32 to 0.35, which is considered below average to poor.
  • You may save approximately 7% to 14% per year in energy costs for every 0.10 you lower the U-factor of your windows.
  • Windows with a U-factor of 0.20 could save you up to 15% per year in energy costs compared to 0.30 ones. Examples and estimates assume average conditions and can vary depending on many factors.

Call (763) 286-6871 for a hassle-free window replacement quote from Zen Windows Twin Cities.

What Makes a Window Energy Efficient?

While U-factor is the most essential rating for replacement windows in the Twin Cities, other ratings are important, too. Here’s what you need to know about each rating:

  • Solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC): Measures the solar radiation a window admits. The rating is expressed in a number between 0 and 1, with lower numbers being better. The optimal SHGC in Minnesota depends on the situation. When AC isn’t a concern, you can choose windows with an SHGC of 0.35 to 0.60, as winter solar heat can help offset the heating energy need. If cooling is a primary concern — and no shading options are available — choose windows with an SHGC less than 0.32.
  • Visible transmittance (VT): This indicates the amount of visible light transmitted and includes the impact of the frame that doesn’t transmit visible light. The rating is represented as a number between 0 and 1, with the higher number being better. Most windows measure between 0.3 and 0.7. A high VT is desirable if you want a lot of daylight in your home.
  • Air leakage: Is indicated by the amount of air that passes through a square foot of window. Lower numbers are desirable. A rating of 0.1 is considered outstanding, 0.2 is good, 0.3 is average, and 0.4 or higher is unacceptable.
  • Condensation resistance: CR measures a window’s ability to resist condensation on the interior. Higher numbers are desired and are expressed between 1 and 100. Anything under 50 is unacceptable; 50 to 60 is good; 60 or more is very good.

Learn more about choosing energy-efficient windows for your Minneapolis home when you call (763) 286-6871.

The Benefits of Installing Energy-Efficient Windows

Energy-efficient windows play a crucial role in enhancing the sustainability and efficiency of a home. These windows are designed to minimize heat transfer between the interior and exterior of a structure, providing several benefits.

  • Reduced energy consumption: Energy-efficient windows help lower heating and cooling costs by preventing the escape of conditioned air, leading to decreased reliance on HVAC systems.
  • Improved comfort: Energy-efficient windows help maintain a consistent indoor temperature, eliminating drafts and cold spots, resulting in a more comfortable living or working environment.
  • UV protection: Many energy-efficient windows have coatings that block harmful UV rays, protecting furniture, flooring, and other interior decor from fading or damage.
  • Noise reduction: These windows often come with enhanced insulation properties, reducing outside noise infiltration and creating a quieter indoor space.
  • Increased property value: Energy-efficient features are becoming increasingly desirable among homebuyers, potentially enhancing the resale value of a property.
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Award-Winning ENERGY STAR® Windows From Zen Windows

Onyx black double-hung windows on a home with Arctic white Hardieplank siding.

Zen Windows Twin Cities is committed to providing an unparalleled customer experience and high-quality, energy-efficient products. We offer hassle-free quotes, sparing customers from the tedious and time-consuming processes often associated with getting estimates.

Zen Windows provides competitive prices without compromising on quality, ensuring that clients receive excellent value for their investment.

We go beyond industry standards by providing lifetime warranties, giving you confidence in the durability and longevity of our products. Our streamlined approach to window replacement focuses on efficiency and customer satisfaction. We know the financial considerations of homeowners and offer flexible financing options.

Want the most energy-efficient replacement vinyl windows in St. Paul and Minneapolis? Complete our simple quote process. We’ll provide an accurate quote by email — no in-home appointment necessary.

Need help deciding on an energy-efficient window? Contact Zen Windows Twin Cities at (763) 286-6871 today for a fast, no-obligation quote.