30 U Factor Windows
The typical range of u factors for windows fall between 20 most.
30 u factor windows. In fact triple pane windows go down to as low as 0 15 which speaks a lot for their efficiency. U factor is especially important during the winter months and can make a big difference in heating costs. Lower is better with u factor the opposite of r value when higher is better. The highest u factor rating is 1 25.
All windows with the enhanced low e and argon glass package will come with labels stating u factor 30 and shgc 30 or under. Triple glazed windows may have a u factor as low as 0 15. The low end of that range is only achievable with higher quality triple glazed windows windows with three layers of glass. Low u factors are most important in heating dominated climates although they are also beneficial.
For superior energy performance use windows with a u factor of 0 25 or less. High performing double window pane set ups will have a u factor of 0 30 or lower. In colder heating dominated northern climates shgc is less important than a window s u factor which can still be taken into account for energy efficiency. The u factor will approach the very low 0 15 point if there is a gas such as argon or krypton between the layers of glass glazing.
On the lower end replacement windows can have a u factor of 0 25. The btu stands for british thermal units the ft. A lower u factor means less heat will escape through a window and the product is better insulated. Gases are heavier than air and therefore provide insulation resistance to air.
Your windows u factor rating is expressed as btu h ft f. If passive solar strategies are to be used there may be a trade off with. Double paned windows may have a u factor at or below 0 30. Is feet and the f is degrees fahrenheit.
When air conditioning is generally not of concern a higher shgc in the range of 0 30 to 0 60 can be helpful since during winter months the solar heat gained can help warm the house. How is a u factor determined. Visit the home depot to buy jeld wen v 2500 series single hung vinyl windows 30 in. High performance double pane windows can have u factors of 0 30 or lower while some triple pane windows can achieve u factors as low as 0 15.
Some window manufacturers have begun to add coatings that emit lower as well as use gas in spaces to decrease the u factor level. X 48 in white with low e glass 8a0612. Simply put u factor measures the amount of heat loss through a window. That s between r 6 and r 2 5.
U factor 30 and shgc 30 solar heat gain coefficient specifically designed to deliver maximum comfort and energy efficiency for climates that routinely experience intense heat.