What’s the Difference Between ENERGY STAR® VS NFRC Ratings?

Investing in energy-efficient windows will improve your home’s comfort and reduce your utility costs. Two labels matter most when looking for high-performance windows, the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) and ENERGY STAR® labels.

Discover what these labels mean and how they differ from each other from a trusted window installation company.

NFRC VS ENERGY STAR

NFRC is a third-party non-profit organization that facilitates certified rating and labeling to allow consumers to compare the performance of windows, doors and skylights. While the NFRC doesn’t state which window is good or bad, they set minimum performance standards or mandate performance labels.

On the other hand, ENERGY STAR assesses windows, doors and skylights according to test procedures established by the NFRC. ENERGY STAR certified products have also met strict energy efficiency requirements set by the U.S. government. When hiring a replacement window contractor, make sure that their products have both NFRC and ENERGY STAR labels.

Performance Ratings

U-Factor – Windows with lower U-factor provides better insulation. This rating measures the rate of heat transfer and indicates how well a window insulates.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) – SHGC measures the amount of solar radiation a window or door allows inside your home. Those who are living in warm climates should go for windows with a low SHGC rating while people situated in cooler areas should look for a higher number.

Visible Transmittance (VT) – This rating refers to how much visible light passes through windows or doors. Back in the day, the more light a window allows inside, the hotter the room gets. However, modern window technology allows light to enter without transferring as much heat indoors. The higher the VT, the more light enters your home.

Air Leakage (AL) – Air leakage rating refers to the amount of air that transfers through a door or window. The lower the air leakage of a window is, the more airtight it is.

Condensation Resistance – This number tells you how well a window withstands water buildup. The lower this factor is, the more condensation builds up in the window or door.

Turn to Renewal by Andersen® of Rapid City for quality residential window services. We install some of the most durable and energy-efficient windows in the industry. Call us at (605) 341-7831 or complete our contact form to get a free estimate. We serve homeowners in Rapid City, SD.