What Are Low-E Windows and Should You Buy Them?

Thinking about giving your mobile home a makeover to save energy? Upgrading your windows could be the way to go. Energy-efficient windows don’t just make your home look better; they also help you save money on energy bills. Did you know that regular double-paned windows let in about 76% of sunlight, which can hike up cooling costs? While you can try using heavy drapes or blinds to deal with this, they tend to block out light and the view. Luckily, there’s another option gaining popularity: Low-E windows. But what are Low-E windows, how do they work, and are they worth it?

What Are Low-E Windows?

Low-E stands for “low emissivity.” Low-E windows are made by coating the glass with a thin layer of metal oxide, usually applied to the glass surface facing the interior of your home. This coating allows natural light to enter your home while deflecting harmful UV rays and infrared light back into the environment. But why is this important?

When sunlight enters our homes, it brings along two types of light: UV rays and infrared light. UV rays are invisible rays of light from the sun. They can fade upholstery, burn skin, and, over the course of many years, damage building materials. On the other hand, infrared light is heat that warms your home.

However, by blocking both types of light from entering, energy-efficient windows can help keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer.

How Do Low-E Windows Work? 

Low-E windows sound almost too good to be true. How can they let light in while preventing heat loss in the winter and heat entry in the summer?

Think of it like a thermos. When you pour hot liquid into a thermos, it stays hot because the silver lining reflects the heat back inside, helping to maintain the liquid’s temperature. Low-E coatings do something similar. They reflect certain wavelengths and frequencies of light away from your home, helping to keep it cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

However, the effectiveness of an energy-efficient window depends on the window’s thickness or the amount of space between the coating and the exterior. Just like the space between the lining and the exterior of a thermos helps keep drinks cold, the location and thickness of the window can affect how well it prevents heat loss or heat entry.

What Are the Benefits?

Choosing Low-E windows offers numerous benefits for homeowners. Here’s why they’re a smart choice:

• Reduced Heat Loss: Significantly reduces heat transfer, cutting home heat loss by up to 50%.
• Cost Savings: Homeowners can save money on energy bills, as it helps in reducing the need for heating and cooling.
• Invisible: Low-E glass is transparent and doesn’t affect the appearance of your windows.
• Durable: Low-E coatings are applied to the inside of the glass, making them resistant to wiping, scratching, or damage.
• Protection: Prevents harmful UV rays from fading or damaging furniture, flooring, and upholstery.
• Increased Property Value: Low-E windows and other energy-efficient features can increase a home’s value.

While energy-efficient windows have clear benefits, how do they stack up against window films?

Low-E Windows vs. Tinted Film & Glass

Many homeowners face the dilemma of upgrading their old windows with tinted film or investing in new energy-efficient Low-E replacement windows. Let’s explore the differences to help you make an informed decision.

What is a Window Film?

Window film, also known as window tint, is an aftermarket solution that can be added to windows to reduce the amount of heat that passes through them. It is often made of polyester laminate and is treated to filter light. Window films come in different varieties, some of which darken your windows, while others are almost invisible.

However, there are drawbacks to consider:

The Drawbacks to Window Films

• Energy Efficiency: Low-E windows retain up to 98% of hot or cool air, while window film may only retain around 30%.
• Condensation: Window film reflects heat away from only one pane of glass in double or triple-pane windows, leading to temperature differences and potential condensation issues.
• Voiding Warranties: Aftermarket film can void warranties from your window’s installer or manufacturer.
• Difficult Application: Applying window film to custom-shaped windows can be challenging and may result in an unattractive finish.
• Affects Window Appearance: Even clear window films can slightly alter the appearance of windows, and scratches on the film are noticeable.
• Temporary Solution: Unlike long-lasting, energy-efficient windows, window film may deteriorate and peel after a few years.
• Challenging to Remove: Removing film can be tricky, leaving residue or becoming impossible.

If you’re thinking long-term, Low-E windows are your best bet. They block heat and UV rays more effectively, especially when combined with durable vinyl frames. Say goodbye to high energy bills and hello to a more comfortable home!

Are Low-E Windows a Good Investment?

While Low-E windows cost a bit more upfront than traditional mobile home windows, they can save you money in the long run. According to Energy.gov, windows can account for 25% to 30% of a home’s heating and cooling energy use. When you think about it, energy-efficient windows only cost a few extra bucks each compared to regular ones. That small extra cost pays off big time in the savings you’ll see on your energy bills over time.

But it’s not just about saving money. By getting Low-E windows, you’re making your mobile home more valuable and comfy for you and your family. You’ll enjoy savings on energy bills and a cozier home.

Plus, many manufacturers, such as Kinro, offer a wide range of stylish and durable Low-E window options specifically designed for mobile homes.

Kinro Low-E Vinyl Windows

When choosing energy-efficient windows for your mobile home, Kinro is a name you can trust. Kinro Low-E vinyl windows are specifically designed for mobile homes, offering a perfect fit and easy installation. With their Low-E coating, Kinro windows provide superior energy efficiency and durability, ensuring years of comfort and savings for mobile homeowners. With a variety of styles and sizes to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect windows to complement your home.

So why wait? Upgrade to Low-E windows today and experience the difference with Mobile Home Parts Store.

Tags: Kinro Vinyl Window, Low-E windows, mobile home, mobile home windows, windows

This entry was posted on Tuesday, March 5th, 2024 at 1:54 am and is filed under Maintenance and Repairs, Mobile Home Life. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.