ENERGY STAR® 2016 Requirements Northern Zone

When the new criteria for ENERGY STAR® Version 6.0 for residential windows, doors and skylights took effect on January 1, 2015 – the Northern Climate Zone of the U.S. was given an additional year before the increased performance requirements were implemented. This extension for the Northern Climate Zone allowed the industry adequate time to identify cost-saving measures to further reduce incremental costs for consumers. 

Windows and patio doors that meet stringent ENERGY STAR requirements can help pay dividends on a daily basis. Heat loss and gain through windows and doors account for up to 50% of a home’s heating and cooling needs. ENERGY STAR qualified products help homes maintain a more balanced and comfortable indoor climate while conserving energy costs and reducing fossil fuel consumption. It’s good for consumers and good for the environment.

Understanding ENERGY STAR Performance Requirements

To qualify for ENERGY STAR, windows shall have NFRC-certified U-Factor and, where applicable, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) ratings at levels which meet or exceed the minimum qualification criteria specified in the table below. In simple terms, U-Factor represents the rate of heat flow through the window product the lower the U-Factor, the less energy is needed to heat a home. The SHGC represents the solar heat penetrating through the window – the lower the number, the better the energy conservation. Climates that rely heavily on air-conditioning will benefit from a window product that displays a low SHGC.

Equivalent Energy Performance for Windows – Northern Zone Only

To qualify for ENERGY STAR V6.0, windows also may have NFRC-certified U-Factor and, where applicable, SHGC ratings at levels which meet or exceed the equivalent energy performance criteria specified in the table below. These criteria allow windows with energy performance equivalent to the prescriptive criteria to qualify in the Northern Zone. (Equivalent performance criteria are not applicable to the North-Central, South-Central, or Southern Zones or to doors or skylights.)

Air Leakage Performance Requirements

Air leakage in windows and doors also is measured with a performance rating. To qualify for ENERGY STAR, products shall have air leakage ratings at levels that meet or exceed the minimum qualification standards specified in the table below and adhere to specified labeling requirements.

GET THE U2000 ENERGY-SAVING ADVANTAGE!

Take a closer look. U2000 Windows expertly combine innovative design, precision manufacturing and superior insulating components including high-performance glass systems – to deliver year-round energy savings. Ask your sales representative to help you choose the ideal glass package to meet the ENERGY STAR requirements for your home and climate zone.