Most people who walk into our Pasco, WA replacement windows office do so for different reasons. Often at the top of the list is the desire to improve their home’s energy efficiency.

While most replacement windows have decent energy efficiency, there are five types of windows that help increase energy efficiency.

1. Hinged Windows

They are primarily designed for ventilation. With a push of your hand or twist of the crank, hinged windows open outward and let in air. When closed, because of the hinge design, the single sash presses firmly against the frame.

Hinged windows come in different styles: awning, casement, and hopper. The hinge is at the top, side, and bottom in each style, respectively. Together, they are more energy-efficient than double-hung and single-hung due to the overlap of sliding designs.

2. Low-E Windows

Low emissivity windows are 40% more efficient than conventional double-pane glass replacement windows.

There’s a metal coating on a plastic film between the panes. It allows short wave radiation from the sun into your home and limits long wave heat radiation from escaping outside.

In plain terms, it blocks ultraviolet and infrared light but lets in visible light. Low-E windows keep heat out in the summer and prevent heat loss in the winter.

3. Fixed Windows

Suppose you have a room or space that doesn’t need ventilation. In that case, you can improve your home’s overall energy efficiency by choosing fixed windows.

Other than letting in light, fixed windows offer zero functionality. You can’t open them. They can be standalone, or in combination with other types of windows, especially in a wall of windows.

Fixed windows are excellent insulators, but they are even more efficient with double-pane or triple-pane glass.

4. Insulated Windows

Speaking of double- and triple-pane glass windows, you can extend their insulation benefits to other windows. The extra pane(s) of glass are twice as energy-efficient as single-pane units and ideal if you want high efficiency.

Insulated replacement windows also have insulating gas, argon. It is colorless, non-toxic, natural, and inert gas safe for your family.

Granted, the higher the number of layers of protection, the more expensive insulated windows are. However, you can save money by installing them only in areas prone to high energy loss.

5. ENERGY STAR® Windows

The much-coveted ENERGY STAR rating is based on performance tests by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). It is only for the most energy-efficient windows.

Replacement windows with an ENERGY STAR logo are more efficient than those without.

Note though, that the rating is geography and climate-dependent. If you are getting one in Pasco, WA, look for one that suits its cool, wet climate. If the window is not suited for our region, it may not perform as well as it should.

Alternatively, ask a qualified provider. Replacement window providers in Pasco, WA, carry the most appropriate windows for the area, and we are one of them. You can visit us here to explore in person or contact us to schedule a free in-home consultation or if you need service and repair.