Energy efficient windows for buildings

With energy costs rising, multifamily property owners are under increasing pressure to reduce expenses while maintaining tenant comfort. Energy efficient windows have become a key solution, as heat gain and loss through windows account for 25%–30% of residential heating and cooling energy use. By installing energy efficient windows, property managers can significantly lower utility bills and improve overall building performance.

At MRI Software, we recognize the importance of maximizing energy efficiency in your properties. Energy efficient windows aren’t just a trend—they’re a proven way to cut costs and create a more sustainable environment. In this guide, we’ll cover what are energy efficient windows, their benefits in real estate, and which types of windows are the most energy efficient.

What are energy efficient windows?

Energy efficient windows are specially designed to limit the amount of heat that passes through them, which means they help regulate indoor temperatures. In the winter, they keep the heat inside, and in the summer, they prevent heat from coming in. This energy management makes it easier to maintain a comfortable indoor climate without overworking your HVAC system.

They achieve this by using advanced technologies like low-emissivity (low-E) coatings, double or triple panes of glass, and insulating gasses like argon. All of these features work together to reduce the transfer of heat through the windows, saving energy and lowering utility bills. You’ll often find that energy efficient windows are certified by ENERGY STAR, making it easier to identify the best options.

How energy efficient windows work

The magic behind energy efficient windows is in their construction. Low-E coatings are one of the key components; they reflect infrared and ultraviolet light while allowing natural light to filter through. This helps keep your building cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

Then there’s the glazing—having two or three layers of glass with insulating gases like argon or krypton between the panes further boosts insulation. Frames made from materials like vinyl, fiberglass, or thermally broken aluminum can drastically reduce heat transfer, making your windows even more efficient.

Key features of energy efficient windows

By integrating energy efficient windows with an energy dashboard, property managers can monitor real-time energy performance, making it easier to identify opportunities for further savings and optimization. When shopping for energy efficient windows, you’ll want to look out for these key factors:

• U-factor: This measures how well a window insulates. A lower U-factor (around 0.30 or less) means better insulation.
• Solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC): This rating tells you how much solar heat a window lets in. Lower SHGC values (0.40 or lower) are better in hot climates.
• Air leakage (AL): You’ll want windows with an AL rating of 0.3 or lower, which means fewer drafts and better insulation.
• Visible transmittance (VT): A higher VT value (0.5 or above) allows more natural light, helping you reduce reliance on artificial lighting.

What are the benefits of energy efficient windows in real estate?

The benefits of energy efficient windows are hard to ignore, especially if you’re managing a multifamily property. First and foremost, these windows can cut down your energy bills by reducing the need for heating and cooling. In fact, some reports show that energy efficient windows can save property owners between 10-30% on their energy costs each year.

Beyond the cost savings, there’s a comfort factor. Energy-efficient windows help create a more stable indoor environment, reducing drafts and keeping temperatures consistent. Happy tenants are more likely to stay put, which can help lower turnover rates and keep your property occupancy high.

Cost savings and property value increases

Let’s face it—cutting down on operational costs is always a good thing. Energy-efficient windows are a smart investment because the savings on your energy bills add up quickly. Over time, these windows can pay for themselves, and you’ll continue to benefit for years to come.

There’s also the fact that energy efficient upgrades can boost your property’s value. Tenants and buyers are increasingly drawn to energy efficient buildings, and properties that are seen as “green” often command higher rents and sale prices. This makes energy efficient windows a great cost-saving tactic for property managers and developers.

Enhanced tenant retention and sustainability

Today’s tenants are more eco-conscious than ever before, and they notice when a property makes an effort to be environmentally friendly. By installing energy efficient windows, you’re not just improving the property—you’re showing tenants that you care about sustainability. This can make your property more attractive to long-term renters, reducing vacancies and increasing tenant satisfaction.

On top of that, energy efficient windows can help reduce your building’s overall carbon footprint. The less energy your building consumes, the less strain you’re putting on the environment. This helps position your property as a leader in sustainability—something that many modern tenants care about.

What type of windows are the most energy efficient?

Choosing the right type of energy efficient windows depends on several factors, like your building’s location and climate. Triple-pane windows, for example, offer top-tier insulation and are ideal for extreme climates. They have three layers of glass, with two insulating spaces in between, which can significantly reduce heat transfer.

Low-E glass is another option that works well in warmer climates because it helps block out heat while still letting in natural light. You might also want to explore smart glass, which automatically adjusts its tint to control light and heat. These windows offer the latest in energy efficiency and can be an excellent option if you’re looking for a cutting-edge solution.

Triple-pane windows and low-E glass

Triple-pane windows are some of the most efficient options available on the market. They feature three layers of glass, which create two pockets for insulating gases like argon or krypton. This extra layer of insulation drastically reduces the amount of heat that can pass through the window. In colder climates, triple-pane windows can help keep heating costs down by trapping warm air inside the building.

Low-E glass works a bit differently. It uses a special coating that reflects heat while still allowing light to pass through. This type of glass is particularly effective in warmer climates, where you want to reduce solar heat gain without sacrificing daylight.

Smart glass for energy optimization

Smart glass, or electrochromic glass, offers a more dynamic solution for energy efficiency. It can automatically change its tint based on light exposure, adjusting to reduce glare or heat when needed. This is especially useful in multifamily properties with large windows, where heat gain and glare might be a concern for tenants.

While smart glass tends to be more expensive upfront, the long-term savings can make it worthwhile. Smart glass also integrates well with energy management software, providing real-time data on how windows are performing. This allows property managers to optimize energy use throughout the day, adding an extra layer of efficiency.

Get in touch to see how much we can save your business

One client monitored 146 priority targets resulting in savings of $630,000 and a global reduction of 22 million kW across 12 sites.

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