When you look around for new double-hung or casement windows, you might notice their ratings on how they retain heat or their energy efficiency. Among the several ratings you see, there’s usually one that measures the amount of solar radiation that can pass through them. This is known as the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), and by checking these ratings, you can get a window that helps improve your home’s comfort!

Understanding SHGC Ratings

Found in almost any window or patio door product, the SHGC is a rating with a ratio where one equals the maximum amount of solar heat allowed through a window, and zero equals the least amount possible allowed through a unit. As for the testing and assigning SHGC ratings to the qualified products, this is taken care of by the National Fenestration Rating Council® (NFRC). The NFRC is a non-profit organization that tests, certifies and labels the energy performance ratings of different types of windows, doors and skylights.

Finding Windows With Good SHGC Ratings

The SGHC ratings measure how much sunlight is transmitted directly and/or absorbed by a window and how it’s subsequently released as heat inside your home. Lower values mean they can transmit less solar heat and have greater shading ability while higher values mean they can collect more solar heat. To know what’s best for your home, make sure to talk to your trusted window replacement contractor on how you can benefit from the high or low SHGC-rated windows.

Depending on your needs and preferences, a window with high SHGC ratings can become more effective during the winter season. This is because they collect more heat and keep your home more naturally comfortable. This means you won’t have to always use your heating system to stay warm, but if you want to maximize your window’s performance, make sure to consider the other factors as well. This can include the local environment and the window orientation.

Whether you need casement or double hung windows with good SHGC ratings, you can count on Renewal by Andersen® of San Diego to get the job done! Reach us today at (858) 935-8451, or you can fill out our convenient online contact form. We serve San Diego and the neighboring areas.