2.2f Windows

Feature	High-tech windows, also called thermal windows and low-e windows, help stop a massive loss of heated or cooled air in a home, thus saving homeowners money on utility bills.   Right: Example of National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label  See explanation of ratings on label
Function	High-efficiency windows allow in light while resisting temperature transfer from outside to inside, or inside to outside, depending on the season and climate.
Cost Range	According to Hanley Wood’s Cost vs. Value report via Remodeling Magazine, the cost to replace 10 3-by-5-foot double-hung windows with wood-frame, dual-pane windows without disturbing interior or exterior trim is $11,512 for mid-range window, and $17,580 for upscale windows.
Common Brands	Andersen, Jeld-Wen, Marvin, Pella
Benefits	Energy and cost savings, improved comfort, less condensation, increased light and views, reduced fading of interior contents.
Challenges	Better windows cost more and the benefits are not evident to the casual observer.
Tax Credits	See tax credit incentives for replacement windows here More on tax credit incentives for Energy Star-qualified windows
Data	Annual savings of $126 to $465 a year in energy costs when replacing single-pane windows in a typical home with Energy Star-qualified dual-pane windows. The annual savings are $27 to $111 a year when installing Energy Star-qualified windows instead of standard, double-pane, clear-glass replacement windows. (Source: Energy Star)
Savings	(Source: Efficient Windows Collaborative, University of Minnesota)
More Data	Map showing annual savings in different climates of the U.S. when upgrading to Energy Star-qualified windows from single-pane or dual-pane windows. Click here