Should I Invest in Energy-Efficient Windows in San Diego, CA

Energy-efficient windows are all the rage right now, but are they worth it? Those old, drafty windows aren’t doing your home any good. A new set of windows improves security, boosts curb appeal, and enhances that tranquil view. But according to Angi, efficient models can be up to $1,200 per window, with an extra $200 to $800 added on for professional installation.1 We’ll now discuss whether energy-efficient windows in San Diego, CA, are worth the investment.

Why Are Energy-Efficient Windows So Costly?

High-efficiency windows comprise many unique features you won’t find in traditional ones. Meanwhile, prices are determined by a few variables. These factors include:

• Size: The larger the window, the higher it will cost. A 24” x 36” window may range from $130 to $380. However, a 46” x 54” window can cost from $650 to $1,000.1

• Type: Fixed windows and storm windows cost from $150 to $1,000, while bow and bay windows can range from $700 to $6,800. They’re typically the most expensive.1

• Glass Type: A double-pane window has two layers of glass with an insulating layer of gas in between. They can cost $900 to install. A triple-pane window of a similar type averages $1,950.1

• Window Frame Material: The least efficient is aluminum, which averages $400 to $1,200. The most efficient window frames are vinyl ($250 to $600), fiberglass ($600 to $900), and wood ($600 to $2,000). Composite frames range from $300 to $1,100.1

• Low-E Coating: A low emissivity (or Low-E) coating is a standout feature of an energy-efficient window. While it can account for up to 15% of the window, it can contribute to lower monthly AC bills.

Installation costs about $40 per hour. It’s highly recommended to have a professional install energy-efficient windows. An improperly installed window can lead to costly and dangerous issues later.

Other Features of Energy-Efficient Windows

A double- or triple-pane window is filled with argon or krypton gas that insulates against heat transfer. These gases are non-toxic as well as invisible and odorless. Low-E glass sends heat back to where it came from and also blocks UV rays that can damage furniture and furnishings. Energy-efficient windows also have warm edge spacers where the glass is sealed to the frame, reducing heat transfer, and weather stripping that stops indoor air from leaking outside.

How to Compare the Efficiency of Windows

Energy-efficient windows are rated by ENERGY STAR. But this isn’t the only measure of efficiency. Common ratings include:

• U-Factor: The rate at which heat flows through the glass. The lower the number, the more resistant to heat transfer the window is.

• Visible Light Transmittance: Measures the amount of natural daylight that passes through the glass, reducing the need for artificial electric lighting.

• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient: Indicates how much of the sun’s rays pass through the window. The lower the number, the less heat transfer occurs. 

• Structural-Design Pressure: Measures the wind pressure a window can tolerate. The higher this number, the better insulated the window is against the wind.

You’ll find these ratings on the National Fenestration Rating Council label. 

Are You Ready for Energy Efficient Windows in San Diego, CA?

If sources of air leakage have been found and it’s time for a window update, energy-efficient windows can be a good investment. They can save up to 12% annually on utility bills.2 These windows are engineered to minimize or prevent the wastage of heated or cooled air. But a window’s overall efficiency can vary based on its size and location, the orientation of your home, the local climate, shading around your home, and the technology used for heating and cooling.

If you’re looking for energy-efficient windows, Window World of San Diego specializes in the latest products and provides superior service. We use visualization tools to help speed up the process and offer financing options with approved credit. To learn more about our products and services, call 760-230-8909 or request a free quote today.