AskMrRogers.com Home Improvement Questions? Ask Mr. Rogers

The number one question customers ask about the new tax credit is: “Which windows qualify?” It’s a big question, because the government has tightened up the standards.

Back when the credit was first offered in 2006 and 2007, Energy Star certification was the only requirement. But window technology has improved in the few years Energy Star set their standards. The new tax credit raises the standards a full 25% above Energy Star. That means you can’t trust the Energy Star label on your window to get your $1,500.

Question:
I need to replace my windows and would like them to be as efficient as economically feasible. Should the u factor be high or low? Also, what does the solar heat gain coefficient mean?

Answer:
This is a great question that a lot of people get tripped up on.

U-factor (or U-Value) measures…