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Your Buying Guide for Energy-Efficient Windows

When replacing aging windows, it pays to know what to look for. Here are some of the most common questions about energy-efficient windows, along with guidance on what the right windows should provide.

What are energy-efficient windows?

Energy-efficient windows are designed to prevent conditioned air from escaping your home, making it easier to cool in summer and heat in winter while reducing energy consumption and lowering energy bills.

Energy efficient windows are windows that are designed to ensure that the hot or cold air in your home does not escape.

Not all energy-efficient windows use the same quality of materials, so pay close attention to the energy rating. Our DraftLOCK windows are designed to meet Canadian energy standards.

About Energy Efficiency Rating

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What makes a window more energy-efficient?

Today's windows incorporate several features that improve energy efficiency. When comparing options, look for these features to get the most reliable performance and long-term energy savings.

Here are the key features that make windows more energy efficient.

When comparing window designs, pay attention to the number of panes. Double or triple pane glass consists of two or three sheets of glass separated by spacers, creating pockets filled with gas and sealed. This reduces heat and cold transference through the glass without obstructing your view.

New window frames ensure a flush fit with no gaps for air seepage. Vinyl is a reliable choice for frames and sashes due to its insulation properties, which is why we recommend vinyl windows and frames. Fibreglass and composite materials also work well and provide good energy efficiency.

Low-E coatings add to the insulation provided by your window and frame materials and double or triple pane glass. They work in all weather conditions, retaining heat in winter and preventing heat from entering in summer.

The coating is typically applied to the exterior side of the glass, reducing ultraviolet and infrared light without limiting natural sunlight. In cooler climates, a Low-E coating can be applied to allow more of the full light spectrum in, improving heat retention on cold nights.

Spacers between the double or triple sheets of glass maintain a uniform distance between each sheet. They are typically made from non-metal materials, creating sealed layers of glass filled with gas. They improve temperature control without affecting visibility.

The space between glass sheets is filled with a clear, odourless, colourless, non-toxic gas that improves heat and cold blockage without affecting visibility. Argon and krypton are the most common options. Our DraftLOCK windows use argon, which has a strong record of energy efficiency.

How much can a homeowner save by installing energy-efficient windows?

Replacing old single-pane windows in warped or rotting frames with newer energy-efficient models can generate meaningful savings over the course of a year.

Energy savings up to +30%

■ With DraftLOCK windows
■ Pre-installation usage

Savings vary based on factors such as wall, attic, and basement insulation. Customers who have installed our DraftLOCK windows report energy savings of up to 30% compared to their pre-installation usage.

$100 —

$500

CAD
over the course of a year

Savings on utility costs typically range from $100 to $500 CAD per year, assuming double or triple pane glass and new frames are included.

12%

Average reduction in utility cost throughout one year

$200

Monthly
power bill

$24

Month
in savings

$288

Entire year
savings

Windows that earn top Energy Star ratings average around a 12% reduction in utility costs per year. On a $200 monthly power bill, that's approximately $24 per month or $288 per year.

Actual savings will vary based on your climate, the windows you choose, and the number of windows replaced. Switching from single-pane to double or triple pane glass can push savings toward the 30% range reported by some customers.

Is it worth replacing your windows?

Installing energy-efficient windows will not offset the full cost in the first year, and it may take several years to break even. The energy savings are only part of the picture, there are other factors to consider.

Aging windows with warped sashes or frames can create cold spots and discomfort near windows during extreme seasons, with hot and cold spots affecting different areas of your home throughout the year.

Our DraftLOCK windows, which earned a top Energy Star rating in 2020, effectively reduce heat and cold transference, improving comfort throughout your home and minimising hot and cold spots in different areas.

$12,000+

Energy-efficient windows could increase your home's market value by $12,000 or more.

Energy-efficient windows can also improve your property's market value. New windows generate interest when selling your home, and windows designed to reduce energy consumption and lower costs make the property even more attractive to buyers. Estimates suggest that installing energy-efficient windows could increase market value by $12,000 or more, even if the windows were installed several years prior.

How do I confirm that I’m getting Energy Star windows?

Always confirm that the windows you are purchasing meet Energy Star specifications. The most direct way is to ask the company. A reputable supplier will confirm compliance with Canada's Energy Star standards. You can also look for the Energy Star logo on the frame or sash. All of our DraftLOCK windows comply with those standards and are ENERGY STAR certified.

Energy Star standards apply across all climates with some variations based on location. Windows for northern climates allow more infrared light in, trapping warm air and improving heat retention, while maintaining a lower U-factor. For warmer southern climates, the focus shifts to keeping heat out. The U-factor measures the glass's insulation quality, helping identify the right window for your region.

What’s the deal about Energy Star tax credits and rebate programs?

Installing Energy Star-certified windows may make you eligible for Canadian rebates. Depending on the number of windows replaced, you may qualify for a grant of up to $250 per window, up to a maximum of $5,000.

Provincial tax credits and rebate programs may provide additional savings. For example, Ontario currently offers a tax credit of up to $325 per window replaced, for products purchased and installed between January 1, 2023, and December 31, 2032.

To find out more about available tax credits or how to apply for a rebate, speak with your Canadian Choice representative.

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What are Energy Star VT ratings?

VT, or visible transmittance, indicates how much visible light passes through your window's glass panes, helping you decide how much natural light you want in each room.

For spaces where less light is preferable, such as a home theatre or a bedroom for someone who works nights, windows with a lower VT rating are a practical choice.

U-factor

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient

Visible Transmittance

Air Leakage

Condensation Resistance

For spaces where more light is needed, such as a kitchen, glass with a higher VT rating is the better option.

Low-E coatings can provide varying levels of tint to achieve the effect you want, from blocking a little light to most of it. Speak with our team to find the right option for each room.

Does the Installation Team Make a Difference?

Choosing quality replacement windows is important, but proper installation matters equally. Windows must be installed by professionals who know what to do to deliver the performance you expect.

Proper installation also protects your warranty. If something goes wrong and the cause is traced to the installation, the window company is not bound to cover it. Windows installed correctly, with no reason to believe the installation affected performance, are likely to remain covered for the warranty's duration.

At Canadian Choice, our installers guarantee their work. If an issue arises that is found to be due to the installation, our team will return to correct the problem at no charge.

Before choosing an installer, check online reviews and ratings, ask for references, and follow up with past customers. A strong track record is a reliable indicator of quality.

How Much Will I Spend for New Energy Efficient Windows?

Window costs are often presented as a per-window rate. Some companies offer discounts based on the number of windows purchased or the complexity of installation. Standard two-sash windows may cost less, while oversized casement windows will cost more.

Energy Star-compliant replacement windows typically cost between $400 and $900 per window, which may or may not include installation. The final cost depends on the window design, quantity, and any applicable discounts.

Keep in mind that these are averages. Select the windows you want, confirm the quantity, and request a free estimate. Ask whether the estimate covers windows only or includes installation and other fees, so you can accurately compare options from different providers.

Buying and installing energy-efficient windows is a meaningful investment. In return, you get lower monthly utility costs, greater temperature control throughout your home, and a stronger property value if you choose to sell. Reducing your home's energy consumption also lowers your carbon footprint.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do energy-efficient windows really make a difference?

Yes, they can noticeably improve comfort and reduce energy bills. Modern windows reduce heat loss, and since windows can account for up to 25% of energy loss in a home, upgrading them can make a real impact.

Will new windows lower my heating bills?

Yes, energy-efficient windows can lower heating costs by around 10–25%. They keep warm air inside during winter and reduce the need for constant heating.

How do I know if my windows are not energy efficient?

If you feel drafts, cold air near windows, or see condensation, they may be inefficient. Older windows often lose heat and allow air leakage, making your home less comfortable.

Are triple-pane windows better than double-pane?

Yes, triple-pane windows provide better insulation than double-pane. They reduce heat loss more effectively and help keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer.