If you live in Arizona, you are surely familiar with the brutal costs of air conditioning. Unlike in many other parts of the country, Arizona residents have to face these bills year-round, which can be murder on the wallet. And not only do your bills tend to go through the roof, but air conditioners are terrible for the environment. Many of us are aware of this fact, but we don’t feel like we have any recourse as the temps are simply too high to bear without A/C
It doesn’t have to be this way. The world is becoming more and more sustainable, and windows manufacturers are aware of this. Many new windows have properties that can help replace the need for air conditioners significantly. You just need to know what to look for. If you want to know where to go to find the highest possible quality windows, check out Broga European windows. There you will find both the standards and range of options that you are looking for.
Low U-factors
If you want to find glass that insulates against heat well, you should look for a low U-factor. U-factor is a way to measure heat transfer, and the lower the U-factor, the better insulative quality your windows will have. It usually ranges from 0.20 to 1.20, so you should look for a number as close to 0.20 as possible.
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Low solar heat coefficient
Another indicator of solid insulative glass quality is solar heat gain coefficients (SHGC). SHGC is a measure of the amount of solar radiation that can pass through glass. The lower the SHGC, the less solar radiation will be allowed to pass through your windows.
Multiple glazing
You might think that buying multi-pane glass is only for people in cold climates, but insulation works to protect against both cold and heat. If you buy double- or triple-paned glass, your windows will come with a special insulative glass, such as argon, in between the panes. This will add extra protection against the heat.
Low-e coatings
Low-e stands for low emissivity. This is a measure of the amount of infrared and ultraviolet light that is allowed to pass through glass. Emissivity is measured between 0.0 and 1.0; a good rating would be somewhere around 0.25.
Choose frames with insulation
Not only can your windows themselves be insulated, but their frames can, too. If you choose frames made from certain types of materials, they will be better insulators than standard ones. The best materials to look for include:
- UPVC. UPVC stands for unplasticized polyvinyl chloride, and it is a material specifically made for window frames. It is a very tough, rigid, and durable type of plastic.
- Fiberglass. Fiberglass is also a good insulator because it is strong and resistant against warping.
- Vinyl. Vinyl is also strong and highly resistant against moisture and rotting.
Energy Star certification and NFRC labeling
Because the world is moving towards a more and more sustainable existence, governmental bodies globally are creating standards for materials that people use in their homes.
Energy Star certification
The Environmental Protection Agency has devised a program to certify a whole range of materials, appliances, and other things that use energy so as to distinguish the most sustainable ones from others that use an unnecessary amount of energy. If you buy windows that are Energy Star certified, you know that you will be getting ones that offer solid protection against the elements.
NFRC labeling
The National Fenestration Rating Council also provides testing on various qualities of window performance. Among other things, this includes U-factors and SHGC. An NFRC label is a mark of quality windows.
Add window film
If you add an additional film to your windows, this will give you yet more protection against the heat. Types that you can choose include reflective film and solar control film.
Extra things to remember
Beyond the basics of glass composition and quality, there are a few other things you should keep in mind to maintain insulation against the heat. If you go to brogawindows.com, the experts there will help explain these tips in detail as they provide you with quality window options.
- Be sure that any gaps you might have between your windows and frames are fully sealed. Although you should have fewer of them with good quality windows, it is always good to check on a regular basis. If you do find gaps, be sure to close them up with a quality sealant.
- Remember that coverings can do a lot. We all like to have the sunshine coming into our living rooms, but this can also bring unwanted heat with it. If you use light, translucent curtains or blinds, you will still receive sunlight and will be able to minimize heat transfer at the same time.
- If you can’t replace your existing windows, make an effort to insulate them with a solid film that has a low-e rating.
Staying cool is possible, but it takes effort
If you live in Arizona, you might think that you are doomed to be hot all the time. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Finding the right quality windows and frames, and making sure that you install them properly will help insulate your house against the heat more than you realize. You should also be sure to check your seals regularly so that you don’t have small amounts of air seeping in. Look out for all the qualities mentioned here, and you will be able to enjoy a cool and happy home.
Frequently Asked Questions
My house is in the hottest part of the state. Are there some areas that are simply too extreme for air conditioning to become unnecessary?
You might still feel the need to turn on the A/C. But with the right kind of windows, you will certainly need less of it. And the more energy you conserve, the lower your bills will be. And the more you will contribute towards a sustainable planet.
Are there any benefits available for upgrading?
Yes, the government offers incentives for upgrading to Energy Star windows, as well as making other sustainable upgrades. Look online for the specific benefits available in your area.
I’m confused about which frame type would be best for my home. How can I make the best decision among sustainable options?
Your choice of frame material depends partially on the composition and style of your home. Consult a professional before making a choice, and they can help you make the right decision.
