Residential Windows, Doors and Skylights
Save energy and money.
Replacing old windows with ENERGY STAR certified windows lowers household energy bills by an average of 12 percent nationwide. Lower energy consumption also reduces greenhouse gas emissions from power plants and shrinks a house's carbon footprint.
Full list of ENERGY STAR certified windows, doors and skylights.
Learn about the benefits of ENERGY STAR certified windows, doors & skylights.
Get information about tax credits for windows, doors and skylights.
Current Specification Effective Date: January 1, 2015
- The current criteria were finalized in January 2014.
- New performance levels (PDF, 238.86 KB) are effective as of January 1, 2016 for windows, doors, and skylights in all climate zones.
- Windows, doors and skylights must meet U-Factor and, where applicable, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) requirements based on climate zone. In addition, doors must meet U-Factor and, where applicable, SHGC requirements based on glazing level (amount of glass).
- Windows, doors and skylights originally qualified for the ENERGY STAR label in March, 1998.
What should I look for when buying windows, doors & skylights?
Every ENERGY STAR window, door and skylight is independently certified and verified to perform at levels that meet or exceed energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. EPA. But how do you know which windows work in your climate? The following tips will help you buy with confidence.
Purchasing Tips
Shopping for new windows, doors, and skylights can be a confusing process. ENERGY STAR makes it simple! Follow these five tips to ensure your windows, doors, and skylights deliver savings and comfort you'll enjoy.
- Determine your ENERGY STAR Climate Zone.
- Find a retailer of ENERGY STAR certified windows, doors, or skylights.
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Look for the ENERGY STAR label for your climate zone. All ENERGY STAR certified products must display the ENERGY STAR label. Check the label to make sure the product you are considering is certified to meet the criteria for your area. The ENERGY STAR label appears on the product next to the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label:
ENERGY STAR Qualified
in Highlighted RegionsOfficial ENERGY STAR label (and NFRC Label) for a window qualifying in the Northern and North-Central climate zones.ENERGY STAR Qualified
in All 50 States -
Ask for ENERGY STAR when ordering. When you're ordering in a showroom, make sure to ask for a product that is certified to meet the ENERGY STAR criteria for your climate zone. You can choose ENERGY STAR certified windows in a variety of framing materials to suit your needs.
- Get a deal. In addition to the long-term energy savings you'll enjoy, you may be able to take advantage of financial incentives that lower your initial investment:
- Many utilities provide financial incentives for purchasing ENERGY STAR certified windows, doors and skylights. Look for local rebates and other promotions in your area.
- Claim federal tax credits for installing ENERGY STAR certified windows, doors or skylights or making certain other energy efficiency improvements to your home.
- Keep in mind that the cost of complete window replacement can vary. Be sure to get quotes from several installers. Different dealers may quote difference prices for the same product. When interviewing contractors, ask them to break down the price quote by labor and materials. ENERGY STAR certified windows, doors and skylights may cost more than non-certified products, but the labor involved should be comparable for both.
- If your house is older than 1978, be sure to look for contractors who are certified to handle lead paint.
Related Information
Installing for Efficiency
Other Window, Door & Skylight Tips
What Makes it ENERGY STAR