Energy-Efficient Windows in Denver, Colorado

How to Find Energy-Efficient Windows in Denver

Your Guide to Understanding Energy-Efficient Window Ratings

Just like cars have miles per gallon ratings, windows have ratings that tell you how energy efficient they are.

And just like every new car on the lot has an MPG sticker, windows come with an NFRC label that will tell you pretty much everything you need to know. (FYI: This label is the only one accepted by the US Department of Energy’s ENERGY STAR® program).

One of the most important ratings on this label is the U-Factor of a window. Since U-Factor measures the rate of heat loss out a window, it is crucial to have the right U-Factor to save energy all winter.

What You Need to Know About Energy-Efficient Windows

The #1 thing to know about U-Factor is this: The lower the better.

Here’s what else you should know: For Denver, Colorado winters, optimally you’ll want a 0.30 rating or less. For particularly good energy efficiency, look for 0.25 or less.

More Energy-Efficient Window Ratings To Know:

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): This measures the solar radiation a window allows in. The rating will be a number between 0 and 1 – and lower = better. You’ll save money on summer cooling bills with a lower SHGC. Generally, 0.32 or less is a good guide for Denver-area homeowners.

Air Leakage: Indicated by the amount of air that passes through a square foot of window. Lower numbers are desirable – 0.1 is considered outstanding (and is also the lowest published rating on any label); 0.2 is good; 0.3 is average; 0.4 or higher is unacceptable.

Zen Windows – The ENERGY STAR Awards!

Zen Windows’ Manufacturer Partner, Soft-Lite Windows, won the 2014, 2015, and 2016 National ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year Award by the EPA. We use the manufacturer Soft-Lite exclusively for all our windows. You are guaranteed to get energy-efficient windows when you choose us!