ENERGY STAR qualified windows are windows that meet a strict energy efficiency specification that is set by the Department of Energy (DOE). These windows have been tested and are certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). NFRC an independent third-party certification agency assigns specific energy efficiency measurements for ENERGY STAR qualifications. These measures are U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), which rate an entire window system, no just the glass.

ENERGY STAR qualifications are always based on U-factor and SHGC ratings in each of the four climate zones. In order to meet U-factor and SHGC levels, ENERGY STAR qualified windows may use:

• Two or more planes of glass
• Warm-edge spacers
• Vinyl framing materials
• Low-E coatings (microscopic coatings that help keep heat inside during the winter and outside during the summer)

None of these are mandatory; each window manufacture determines how to make their windows meet DOE standards. View the energy efficient criteria for ENERGY STAR qualified windows.

About Energy Star
Energy star program joint with the U.S Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy helping us all save money and protect the environment by using energy efficient practices and products.
With the help of ENERGY STAR, Americans have save enough energy in 2010 to avoid the equivalent to 33 million cars green house gas emissions. Saving close to $18 billion on their utility bills.

Energy Star For The Home
Making energy efficient choices on average can save family’s a third on their energy bill and help with similar savings of greenhouse gas emissions. While saving money and emissions you don’t need to sacrifice features, style or comfort. Energy Star aids the process of becoming energy efficient by helping you make energy efficient choices.
• While looking for household products, finding products with Energy Star approval means these products have met strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the EPA and US Department of Energy.
• For large home improvement plans, the EPA offers resources and tools to aid with planning and undertaking projects to reduce your energy bills and improve home comfort.
For Business
A strategic approach to energy management can result in twice the savings, in money and the environment, EPA’s ENERGY STAR partnership offers a proven energy management strategy which helps by setting goals, measuring current energy performance, tracking savings, and rewarding improvements. The EPA provides an innovative energy performance rating system, which businesses have already used for more than 200,000 buildings across the united states. EPA also recognizes top performing buildings with the ENERGY STAR.
Links
EPA
US Dept of Energy
Energy Star

Representing the largest market share in the window remodeling business, Vinyl and PVC are the most prevalent material in use todays window manufacturing. There are many benefits to using the material for constructing windows that make them ideal for homeowners and commercial use.
• Save money on Heating and Cooling Costs
• No painting or staining required
• Economical
• Customizable
• Various Styles
• Quick and Easy Installation
Highly Energy Efficient
Having moderate to high R-values, Vinyl windows are resistant to heat flow. The higher the R-value the greater heat resistance the vinyl maintains. This makes vinyl windows energy efficiency higher, which in the long run saves you in heating and cooling costs.
Inexpensive and Assortment of Styles
One of the most least expensive choices for replacement windows, vinyl windows come in a variety of styles and a wide range of prices. With that, a vinyl window can be built to fit every budget; making the installation processes a breeze.
Customizable
Being custom built, Clearview Vinyl windows can be designed to suit your needs and your architectural wants. Available in a wide range of styles, shapes and sizes, there is the perfect solution for each room in your home.
No Maintenance
Since vinyl windows are not stained or painted you never have to worry about their finish. They always look great, regardless of their age.
If you are looking for replacement windows for energy efficiency, esthetic reasons, or costs of maintenance, vinyl replacement windows are without a doubt the best solution.

Link to
Energy Efficiency
Various styles
Customizable- Architectural

If you have considered replacing your old outdated windows because of looks, you should also consider the energy you will save. Vinyl replacement windows are great for keeping your heat or air conditioning inside the house where it belongs.

How does it work?

1. Vinyl construction- Vinyl is a great material for saving money, being relatively inexpensive and durable; it also conducts less heat than materials like wood, and metal. Making it a great choice for energy efficient products.

2. Foam Spacers- The ever so important gaps in between vinyl windows walls, is very important. The Foam spacers provide added insulation and reduce heat conductivity.

3. Weather Stripping- A good seal is important and caulking and weather stripping can result in big energy savings. New windows have multi-layer weatherstripping pre built in to keep our the elements.

4. Double and triple pane insulated glass- Adding an extra window pane adds insulations and helps reduce the amount of cold or heat that can transfer through the window. Keeping the warmth or cool in and the outside temperatures out.

5. Low- E coatings and glazes- glass pane coating can help increase or decrease the amount of sunlight that transfers through the windows in your home. Changing the amount of coating you can help your heating or cooling costs with more reflective glass. A room with lots of sunlight could use a less reflective glass and help heat your home in the winter.