The lower emittance of solar heat in and outside the home will keep certain homes
warmer in the winter, and others cooler in the summer depending on the
climate, and will continually save money year after year over traditional
glass. This is not the dark shaded glass of the past, in fact, today's
Spectrally Selective glass appears virtually clear, allowing the daylight to
brightly illuminate the home, making the most use of the sun's light to
reduce indoor lighting cost.
There are varying types of Spectrally Selective Low-E coatings, with each
variant more suitable for a particular climate zone. Windows that are energy
efficient in Arizona, will not be appropriate for use in Maine. The Federal
government's Energy StarŪ program lists four climate zones in the United
States and a recommended glass type for each. In order to gain the coveted
Energy Star qualified rating, new home builders must install the Low-E glass
determined for their particular climate zone.
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For example, in the North/Central region of the country, Energy Star
recommends, "Moderate Solar Gain Low-E Windows" which screen out a selected
portion of the sun's heat in the summer, but allow a good amount of solar
heat in winter. The inside window glass stays warmer, so you're not
constantly feeling that drafty pull of chilly air assaulting your body, even
though your thermostat is at 70 degrees. |
In the Southwest portion of the country, energy efficient builders such as
Pardee Homes (http://www.pardeehomes.com/)
use "Low Solar Gain Low-E Windows" which will screen the most heat from the
sun and offer the greatest energy savings by keeping the home cooler during
hot summers. These coatings also block ultra-violet rays, which greatly
reduce the fading of fabrics, floor coverings, artwork, and window
treatments.
For more information on Spectrally Selective Low-E glass, and other ways to
save money by saving energy visit EnergyStar.gov.
About The Author: Rick David writes for
http://www.consumer-guides.info/ and other online publications on
topics of consumer interest and advocacy. Pardee Homes (http://pardeehomes.com/)
is an Energy Star partner and builder of energy efficient new homes in Southern
California and the Las Vegas Valley of Southern Nevada.
