Energy-efficient windows are an important part of reducing your annual energy bills and overall carbon footprint. In this article, a trusted home performance energy assessment specialist discusses how windows can be used to address solar heat gain in your home.
What Is Solar Heat Gain?
Solar heat gain refers to the amount of radiation from the sun that is turned into heat when it is admitted through windows. When sunlight beats down on your windows, it is either absorbed or reflected back. And when light falls on your interior furnishings, it effectively warms them up, resulting in warmer air inside your home. Windows with a low solar heat gain coefficient allow less solar heat and offer greater shading ability.
How Do You Manage Solar Heat Gain?
One of the best methods to minimize solar heat gain and reduce energy costs is letting a professional window replacement contractor install replacement windows with energy-efficient features, such as multiple panes, gas fills, warm edge spacers and low-emissivity coatings. Of course, it is crucial that you carefully plan the placement of these windows, especially if you live in a region with distinct seasons that run between scorching summers and freezing winters. The north side of your home generally receives little direct sunlight, so installing windows with a slightly higher solar heat gain coefficient is perfectly fine. Windows with low solar heat gain value are probably ideal for the south side of your home where most direct sunlight is received.
Contact Us for Your Energy Efficiency Needs!
California Energy Consultant Service is a preferred provider of home energy efficiency solutions, including energy assessment and window installation. When you are ready to talk about your next energy efficiency project, give our office a call at (916) 993-5000 or fill out our online form to get in touch with one of our experts. We serve clients in Sacramento and Rancho Cordova, CA.