Amerimax Window Energy Savings Calculator
Estimate your potential annual energy savings by upgrading to high-performance Amerimax windows. This calculator uses key energy performance metrics like U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), along with your local climate data and energy costs, to provide an approximate savings figure.
Understanding Amerimax Window Energy Performance
Amerimax Windows are renowned for their commitment to energy efficiency, helping homeowners reduce their utility bills and improve indoor comfort. When considering new windows, understanding key performance metrics is crucial. This calculator helps you visualize the impact of upgrading to high-performance Amerimax products.
What is U-factor?
The U-factor (or U-value) is a measure of a window's ability to conduct heat. It quantifies the rate of heat transfer through a window assembly (glass, frame, spacers) from warmer to colder areas. A lower U-factor indicates better insulation and less heat loss in winter or less heat gain in summer. For example, an old single-pane window might have a U-factor of 1.0 or higher, while a high-performance Amerimax window can achieve U-factors as low as 0.27 or even lower, thanks to features like multiple panes of glass, low-emissivity (low-e) coatings, and argon gas fills.
What is SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient)?
The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measures how much solar radiation (heat) passes through a window and becomes heat inside your home. It's expressed as a number between 0 and 1. A lower SHGC means less solar heat is transmitted, which is beneficial in climates where cooling costs are high, as it reduces the load on your air conditioning system. Amerimax windows often incorporate advanced low-e coatings that selectively block unwanted solar heat while still allowing visible light to pass through, offering excellent SHGC performance tailored to your climate needs.
Heating Degree Days (HDD) and Cooling Degree Days (CDD)
These are climate-specific metrics that quantify the demand for heating and cooling in a particular region over a year.
- Heating Degree Days (HDD): Represent the sum of the differences between the average daily outdoor temperature and a base temperature (usually 65°F) for days when the average temperature is below the base. Higher HDD values indicate colder climates with greater heating needs.
- Cooling Degree Days (CDD): Represent the sum of the differences between the average daily outdoor temperature and a base temperature (usually 65°F) for days when the average temperature is above the base. Higher CDD values indicate hotter climates with greater cooling needs.
How Amerimax Windows Save You Money
By significantly improving both U-factor and SHGC, Amerimax windows create a more effective thermal barrier for your home. This means:
- Reduced Heat Loss: In colder months, a lower U-factor keeps more heat inside, reducing the workload on your heating system.
- Reduced Heat Gain: In warmer months, a lower SHGC minimizes the amount of solar heat entering your home, easing the burden on your air conditioning.
The result is lower energy consumption for heating and cooling, leading to tangible savings on your monthly utility bills. Use the calculator above to see your potential annual savings!
Example Calculation:
Let's use the default values to illustrate how the calculator works:
- Total Window Area: 250 sq ft
- Existing Window U-factor: 0.65
- New Amerimax Window U-factor: 0.27
- Existing Window SHGC: 0.75
- New Amerimax Window SHGC: 0.25
- Annual Heating Degree Days (HDD): 4500
- Annual Cooling Degree Days (CDD): 1500
- Average Heating Energy Cost: $1.50 per Therm
- Average Cooling Energy Cost: $0.15 per kWh
- Heating System Efficiency: 80%
- Cooling System SEER Rating: 14
Based on these inputs, the calculator would perform the calculations as described in the JavaScript section to determine the estimated annual heating, cooling, and total energy savings.
Disclaimer: This calculator provides an estimate based on simplified formulas and typical values. Actual savings may vary depending on factors such as specific window installation, home insulation, thermostat settings, local climate variations, and actual energy prices. Consult with an Amerimax dealer for a precise energy audit and personalized recommendations.