Of the many options available to you when purchasing a window, especially one for your home, Low-E and Argon is a feature that deserves pause for consideration….but what exactly is it, and how does it work?
Adding Low-E as an option to your windows provides a special coating to the glass making them extremely more energy efficient. The ‘E’ stands for emissivity- the power of a surface to emit heat by radiation. More simply, the The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) defines Low-E as “A coating applied to the surface of the glazing of a window to reduce heat transfer through the window.” This transfer works both ways- it keeps the heat from entering during the summer months, and it keeps the heat within the home from escaping during winter months by reflecting UV radiation that enters through the windows of your home. This is especially a welcomed relief for those trying to keep their utility bills under control and prevent their heating and air-conditioning systems from working around the clock to maintain a comfortable atmosphere. The DOE also estimates that the amount of energy lost annually through windows is $35 billon!
Not only does this feature assist in making your home more comfortable and energy efficient, but also protects your interior decor. According to the NFRC, “Using low-E coated glass provides additional protection, reflecting up to 74 percent. (of UV rays.)” This greatly reduces fading in your furniture, carpet, home decor, etc caused by the sun.
OK, so we know what Low-E does, but what is Argon? Argon is a colorless, odorless inert gas used in the spaces between the panes in energy efficient windows. This gas is used because it will transfer less heat than air. Therefore, it provides additional protection against conduction and convection of heat over conventional double -pane windows. So when one combines the insulating features of Low-E with Argon together, they become a powerful deterrent against the elements you don’t want in your home, while still allowing the sunlight, view, and beauty you and your family can enjoy.
For a free consultation regarding your windows and how we can help make your home more energy efficient, call us today at (314) 656-1410!
References:
http://www.nfrc.org/windowratings/Benefits-of-improving-windows.html#sthash.O89S4ZN1.dpuf
http://energy.gov/eere/energybasics/articles/glossary-energy-related-terms#L