Low E Glass in California Windows

Low E Glass in California Windows

You've read that "Low-E" is desirable for window replacement. But what exactly is Low-E, and how does it work in helping replacement windows reduce air conditioning and heating costs in your home?

Low-E Controls Heat Flow from the Sun

Low-E is the industry's shorthand for a "low emittance" which is a super-thin coating that is invisible to the naked eye. The coating is made from metal or metal-oxide layers that are glazed on the surface of the replacement window to reduce and even block certain light rays - such as infrared light, IR, (which is, essentially, heat) and ultraviolet light, UV, (which can cause wood and fabrics to fade colors). Low E glass allows visible light to shine into your house, while blocking UV and IR light in certain amounts.

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Different Types of Low E Coatings in Replacement Windows

There are different types of Low-E coatings that allow high, moderate or low solar gain. The best replacement windows for hotter climates, such as in California, that use air conditioning more often than heating are low solar gain coatings.

Some Low-E replacement windows also have extra coatings that are slightly tinted to further reduce the effects of the sun's heating rays on the inside of the house.

Look at the Label in Your Replacement Windows

Before you buy Low-E replacement windows for your California home, check out the Energy Star label , which will tell you the solar heat gain rating you need to know for your location. The Energy Star label rating divides the country into four areas; for California, the SGGC should be .55 or lower.