It can be noted that when replacing your doors, skylights or windows, experts would always advise checking the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) ratings of the products you’re getting. This allows you to understand how much solar radiation can pass through your home features. Many may still ask whether it’s really necessary. We’ll explain here why.
What Are SHGC Ratings?
SHGC ratings of window products are determined by the National Fenestration Rating Council® (NFRC) following the necessary tests the organization runs. The U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) use the SHGC ratings in assessing the energy efficiency of the windows for product certifications and federal incentive and rebate programs.
These classifications are used to guide people in choosing the right windows, like energy-efficient windows. Along with other information, such as condensation resistance, visible transmittance and U-factor, these are indicated on product labels so that people can easily refer to them and make comparisons of the different window items.
The Ideal Rating for Your Windows
-
Southern climates relying on cooling, their windows should have an SHGC rating of less than 0.27.
-
In the mixed climates of the south and central regions, windows and skylights should have an SHGC rating of less than 0.30.
-
In the mixed climates of the North and Midwest, the SHGC rating for windows and skylights should be below 0.40.
-
In the colder climates of the North, a window’s SHGC rating is actually not as important as the U-factor. Remember that if air conditioning is used from time to time, the SHGC rating of windows should be less than 0.40. If air conditioning is not used, windows should have an SHGC rating of 0.30 to 0.60.
To learn more about a wide selection of windows, call Renewal by Andersen® of St. Louis at (314) 332-2364, or fill out our contact form. We serve multiple areas in Missouri, including Chesterfield, St. Charles and nearby areas.
