The 2020 ENERGY STAR® Tax Credits are here, and with them comes a variety of ways for homeowners to save.  Ultimately, these tax credits are designed to reward customers who invest in energy-efficient products.  They provide a nice return, in addition to the range of benefits that already come with ENERGY STAR products.

What is ENERGY STAR?

ENERGY STAR has been around since 1992 and is the government-backed validation of energy-efficient products.  ENERGY STAR helps save billions of dollars every year in energy consumption and greenhouse emissions.  Companies, homeowners and builders utilize their unbiased, informative product performance reviews to implement decision making and save dollars.  ENERGY STAR also contributes to improved environmental awareness, and provides states and local governments with reduced cost incentives as well.  In 2018 alone, this program helped Americans save nearly 430 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity, and $35 billion in energy costs. Since 1992, ENERGY STAR has helped families and businesses save 3.5 billion metric tons in greenhouse gas reductions.

The 2020 Credits

ENERGY STAR’s 2020 tax credits on windows and doors are equal to 10% of the product cost (installation costs may NOT be included) up to:

• $200 for eligible windows and skylights
• $500 for eligible doors

This credit is ultimately available for those products that meet ratings certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) for energy efficiency.  The specific requirements needed for each product vary according to geographic location and climate conditions.  However, although these requirements have more to do with U-Factor and Glazing Level- there are still common features across ENERGY STAR approved windows and doors that have nothing to do with location.

ENERGY STAR Approved Windows

Most 2020 ENERGY STAR approved windows have a few select features that make them environmentally friendly and beneficial for homeowners.  ENERGY STAR windows typically all have Low-E Glass, quality frame materials, multiple panes, edge-spacers and fill gas.

• Low-E Glass
  • Low-emissive glass reflects light and reduces thermal conductivity, keeping internal temperatures cool. It also redirects infrared light, ensuring that summer heat doesn’t raise living temperatures.
• Efficient Window Frame Materials
  • Vinyl Windows
    • Low maintenance, durable and quality option that provides great thermal conductivity and insulation.
  • Fiberglass Windows
    • Strong, durable, frames that ultimately reduce the amount of energy needed to cool or heat a home.
  • Wood Windows
    • Strong, insulation-friendly material that reduces footprint and maintenance requirements.
• Multiple Window Panes
  • Two panes of glass can ultimately provide an additional layer of protection and insulation for your home.  This can help trap loose emissions, and ensure temperatures and thermal efficiency stay consistent.
• Warm-Edge Spacers
  • A spacer is designed to keep the glass edges of a window the correct distance apart. They reduce the amount of heat transfer a window allows and improve overall insulation.
• Gas fills
  • Gas fills such as argon or krypton provide additional insulation abilities, protecting your home from exterior temperature changes and providing an additional level of protection.

Product Spotlight

SoftLite windows have consistently achieved some of the best NFRC ratings in the industry for years. Our double-hung, sliding and picture windows — including Barrington, Bainbridge LE, Pro Series, Classic Plus, Imperial Elite, Barcelona and Elements — have all earned Most Efficient ENERGY STAR designations, with various high-performance, insulated glass systems as well.  Additionally, all SoftLite patio doors with high-performance glass options exceed ENERGY STAR requirements as well, including the Kingsroyal Glide, which comes complete with ultra-smart weatherstripping, double and triple pane insulated glass, and Low-e coating.

Invest in ENERGY STAR Products

SoftLite prides itself on offering the highest quality, ENERGY STAR products available on the market today. Whether you’re looking to improve your existing doors and windows, or replace them entirely, SoftLite Windows and Doors offers a variety of products guaranteed to exceed industry standards. For over 80 years, homeowners have relied on SoftLite’s ability to manufacture the most reliable, durable, and high-performing products on the market.  If you would like to learn more about the benefits of installing our stylish, aesthetic, and efficient windows and doors, contact a dealer near you.