Energy Star windows improve comfort, lowers energy bills, and adds long-term value to your home. They are built to perform in every season, helping your home stay warm during cold Minnesota winters and cool during hot, humid summers. With better insulation, stronger seals, and energy-saving glass, these windows make your home more efficient and comfortable year-round.
Built for Minnesota’s Extreme Climate
Here in Minnesota, we deal with some of the most extreme weather in the country. We get hot, humid summers and brutally cold winters—sometimes all in the same month. That means your home’s heating and cooling systems are always working overtime.
The reality is, we only get a handful of days a year where it’s nice enough outside to open the windows and let the fresh air in. For the rest of the year, we’ve got the windows closed and the HVAC system running—either cooling or heating—to keep the temperature inside where we want it.
Energy Star Windows: What the Label Really Means
Energy Star windows are tested and certified to meet strict energy efficiency standards. That rating means they’re at the top of their class when it comes to keeping outdoor temperatures out—and indoor comfort in. When you choose Energy Star windows, you’re choosing technology designed to work smarter.
Energy Star ratings take several factors into account, including:
- How well the window holds in heat during the winter
- How effectively it keeps hot air out during the summer
- The level of air leakage through the frame
- The use of insulating features like gas fills and multiple panes
The more a window reduces energy transfer, the more efficient it is—and the higher the Energy Star rating.
How Energy Star Windows Save You Money
The biggest reason people upgrade to Energy Star-rated windows? Lower heating and cooling bills. When your windows are more efficient, your furnace and air conditioner don’t have to work as hard. That means less energy used and more money saved.
1. Windows Are the Weakest Link
Windows are always the shortest distance between the inside and outside of your home. That means heat escapes (or enters) more easily through them than through walls or roofs.
2. Upgrading the Glass
Adding triple-pane glass helps slow down that energy loss. With three layers of glass, your home stays warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
3. Argon Gas Insulation
Many Energy Star windows include argon gas between the panes. This invisible gas acts as an extra layer of insulation, reducing the amount of heat that passes through.
4. Real Energy Bill Reductions
All of these features—combined with a solid frame and proper installation—mean your HVAC system doesn’t need to run as often or as long. That adds up to real savings on your monthly energy costs.
Why Energy-Efficient Windows Are a Smart Choice for Minnesota Homes
At Craftsman’s Choice, we focus on more than just installing windows—we help homeowners make smart, long-term improvements. That’s why we recommend Energy Star windows for nearly every project. We’ve seen how much they can improve comfort and cut down energy costs, especially in our extreme Minnesota weather.
These windows are designed for homes like yours—where the windows stay closed for most of the year and the furnace or A/C is constantly running. Energy-efficient windows help keep the summer heat out and the winter cold from creeping in. They also cut down on condensation, reduce outside noise, and—most importantly—save you money month after month.
Key Features That Maximize Energy Savings
When we install new windows, we focus on proven features that deliver real results. These upgrades are what set Energy Star windows apart:
- Triple-Pane Glass: Three layers of glass create stronger insulation, helping your home stay warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
- Argon Gas Between Panes: This clear, non-toxic gas fills the space between glass layers, increasing insulation without changing the look of your windows.
- Airtight Window Seals: Strong seals keep outdoor air from leaking in and indoor air from escaping, which keeps your heating and cooling systems from working overtime.
Together, these features improve energy efficiency, enhance comfort, and contribute to the high performance that earns an Energy Star rating.
In Summary
We know Minnesota weather. That’s why we believe Energy Star windows are a smart investment for any homeowner in our state. They keep your home more comfortable, reduce how much you rely on your furnace or air conditioning, and lower your energy bills. Plus, you’ll notice the benefits from the moment they’re installed.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you upgrade your home with windows that are built for performance—and built to last.
