In environments such as southern and central Arizona, including Phoenix, replacement windows can certainly make a noteworthy improvement in the comfort level of your home and in your utility bills. On top of the benefits related to energy and money savings, energy efficient replacement windows also improve the appearance of a home, reduce the noise level, allow less dust to come in a home, preserve the interior (carpet, rugs, floors, furniture, window coverings, art, pictures) from fading caused by ultraviolet light, permit more light in and reduce condensation on the windows.

Window Ratings
With well over three hundred days of sun in a year, how effectively a window inhibits the heat and ultraviolet rays from the sun is essential. Energy Star windows are rated in 5 categories. The U-Factor and the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient assess the amount of heat a window transfers and are the main rankings to emphasis on when choosing replacement windows for a Phoenix home.

Solar Heat Gain
Solar heat gain indicates the percentage of the sun's energy that is transmitted through a window. The sun's heat is passed through the glass and the window frame and sash. The frame and sash can make up 10-30% of the area of a window so the frame construction is a critical determinant. Windows employ a range of techniques to minimize solar gain.

Low-E Coatings
Low-E coatings limit the heat and ultraviolet rays which pass through a window. Low-E coatings are extremely thin, invisible metal layers attached to the glass. High, medium and low solar gain options of Low-E coatings are readily available. To further inhibit solar gain, many dual pane windows include Low-E coatings on both pieces of glass.

Gas Fillings
Dual pane windows have a space between the panes of glass. This gap can be filled air or gas (Argon gas or Krypton gas). The gasses are denser than air and make it more difficult for hot or cold air to pass through. Krypton is the denser of the two gasses and needs a narrower space between the panes however it is more costly. The gasses are non-toxic so a broken window does not pose a health risk.

Window Frames
Vinyl windows frames are made with hollow spaces inside which may be filled with insulation to enhance their thermal performance. Aluminum transmits heat very efficiently so aluminum windows posses poor thermal performance without a thermal break. A material which transmits heat very poorly is placed between the aluminum pieces on the inside and exterior of the window to create a thermal break.

In Phoenix, Replacement Windows Produce An Enormous Difference
In climates such Phoenix, energy efficient windows can make a noticeable difference in the comfort level of your home and in your utility bills as well as extend the life of your air conditioner because it will have to run less.

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