Energy Star 7.0 - Updated Criteria for Windows & Doors
Where does Energy Star come from? The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) administers this government backed rating system that gives consumers an unbiased standard to go off when purchasing products for a home or building. The energy star label is different than the NFRC sticker . Windows are just one of the many products within a home that you can find energy star labels for. The new criteria (version 7.0) for energy star windows and doors represents an improvement of thermal performance. Which means lower u-values and slightly lower SHGC. This new version goes into effect on OCTOBER 23, 2023. This means that window manufactures will need to specify which windows qualify and which do not qualify to the new standard starting on October 23rd. Most are familiar with the term “energy star windows” - but what does that really mean? The US is split into four climate zones: Northern, North-Central, South-Central, and Southern (See map below). Each zone has different u-factor and Solar Hea