ENERGY STAR® vs. NFRC Ratings: What Is the Difference?

When shopping for replacement windows for your home, you’ll likely come across two important labels from ENERGY STAR® and the NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council). Understanding the difference between these two can help you make informed decisions for your window upgrade and ensure long-term savings and comfort for your home.

Keep reading as Renewal by Andersen® of Montana discusses the key differences between the ENERGY STAR and the NFRC labels. 

ENERGY STAR® Labels

ENERGY STAR is a widely recognized symbol for energy efficiency. Products bearing the ENERGY STAR label have been independently certified to meet strict energy-saving requirements set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). When you opt for ENERGY STAR-certified windows, doors, and skylights, you’re choosing products that can help reduce your energy bills.

ENERGY STAR-certified products are designed to help cut down on greenhouse gas emissions stemming from inefficient use of power in homes. It’s not only about the potential savings on your energy bill but also about contributing to a healthier, more sustainable environment.

NFRC Ratings

The NFRC is an independent non-profit organization that provides a comprehensive system to rate the energy performance of windows, doors, and skylights. While ENERGY STAR certifies a product as energy-efficient, the NFRC label offers detailed insights into how a product performs in various categories, including:

• U-Factor – This component indicates how well a window insulates.
• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) – This rating details how much solar heat a window allows through.
• Visible Transmittance –  This measures the amount of light the window allows to pass through.
• Air Leakage – This is the rate at which air passes through joints in the window.
• Condensation Resistance – This label tells how well the window resists water buildup.

Let’s Find the Best Windows for Your Home

For expert guidance on ENERGY STAR and NFRC labels and choosing the best replacement windows, rely on Renewal by Andersen of Montana. We’ll assist you in finding windows that offer optimal benefits in cost, performance and sustainability. Call (406) 259-3944 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation.