Five Steps to Energy Efficient Windows in Michigan

Author: waldemarbureau | Posted: 03.05.2012

With climate change and global warming consistently in the news, citizens and governments relentlessly look for ways to minimize their effects. And you must be one of them because no one is spared from the discomfort brought by extreme temperatures and weather changes. But do you know that you can reduce the effects of global warming in your home by simply changing your windows? There are now several options for windows replacement and energy-efficient ones are among them.

If you live in a state like Michigan that experiences warm weather, you need to install energy efficient windows that can effectively manage the heat. This is especially true when you live in the Upper Peninsula which has a more severe climate. There are a variety of energy-efficient windows you can use that can fit your window size and match your home design. If you’re still unsure which one to get, an effort was made to inform consumers of each state on how to select energy-efficient windows. Here are the steps you can follow:

Step 1 - Meet the energy code

Look for a brand of energy-efficient windows that meet the locally applicable energy code requirements. Each state lists those codes online. ENERGY STAR-certified windows typically meet or even exceed these state energy codes.

Step 2 - Look at the NFRC label

Aside from meeting a state or city's energy code requirements, an energy efficient window must bear the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label. Fenestration refers to products that fill openings in a building like doors, skylights and windows. NFRC issues labels to windows verified as energy code compliant. Each label shows whole-window energy properties.

Step 3 - Compare annual energy costs

There are online sites that detail window energy performance. While this may involve some hi-tech assistance, you can also use computer simulations to compare each window type. Every window is uniquely designed to meet varying needs and is required to pass an energy audit Michigan authorities conduct yearly.

Step 4 - Customize for your home

Since every home is different, it's important that window meets your home's needs and complies with the Michigan energy efficiency code. RESFEN is free software that allows you to compare window performance options. It calculates energy efficiency performance based on utility rates, window design and house design.

Step 5 - Ensure proper window installatio

Like any housing product, make sure your windows meet the Michigan energy efficiency requirements and are properly installed for optimum performance. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines, or hire the services of a contractor for correct installation. You can read more about energy efficient windows from nfrc.org and efficientwindows.org.

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