What’s the Difference Between ENERGY STAR® and the NFRC?

When purchasing windows, you will likely come across various certifications, such as those from ENERGY STAR® and the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). Ratings by these organizations inform consumers about the energy efficiency and performance of windows. In this post, we discuss the distinction between the ratings by ENERGY STAR and the NFRC.

ENERGY STAR® Certifications

ENERGY STAR is a widely recognized symbol for energy efficiency, backed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Windows, doors and skylights with this label have been independently tested to meet strict energy efficiency standards. Products certified by ENERGY STAR are known to lower household energy bills by an average of up to 13%.

ENERGY STAR-certified windows, doors and skylights not only save money but also contribute to protecting the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Since the current criteria for certification were finalized in October 2022, homeowners can be assured that they are purchasing products with up-to-date performance levels.

NFRC Ratings

The NFRC is an independent organization that provides a comprehensive rating system for the energy performance of windows, doors and skylights. Unlike ENERGY STAR, which endorses products for meeting overall efficiency standards, the NFRC label provides specific performance ratings such as U-factor, solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), visible transmittance (VT), air leakage and condensation resistance.

These ratings give homeowners precise metrics to compare the performance of various window types. For example, U-factor measures how well a window insulates while SHGC indicates how well a product blocks heat caused by sunlight. Both are crucial for assessing the energy efficiency of windows.

The Interplay Between ENERGY STAR® and NFRC

While both ENERGY STAR and NFRC aim to ensure energy-efficient performance, the ENERGY STAR label serves as an easy identifier for consumers seeking high-efficiency windows, doors, and skylights. In contrast, the NFRC label provides detailed insight into how these products will perform in specific areas of thermal efficiency.

For those planning window replacement, understanding these ratings is essential. A qualified installer can recommend products with optimal SHGC and U-factor ratings that align with your local climate. 

Choose beautiful and energy-efficient windows from Renewal by Andersen® of Rapid City. Give us a call at (605) 341-7831 or visit our contact page to schedule an appointment.