ENERGY STAR® Certified Windows and Doors by MILGARD
ENERGY STAR® certified windows and doors keep your home comfortable year-round and can reduce your energy bills. Discover how energy-efficient windows and doors can make every room feel just right.
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What Is ENERGY STAR®?
ENERGY STAR® is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The program sets strict energy-efficiency standards that products must meet before they can display the blue ENERGY STAR® label.
ENERGY STAR® labels cover many products in your home, from appliances like refrigerators and washing machines to heating and cooling systems, water heaters, and building materials like windows and doors. ENERGY STAR® rated windows and patio doors are especially important for comfort and long-term savings.
The main goal of ENERGY STAR® is simple: Help individuals reduce energy costs and protect the environment through energy-efficient products and practices. The program creates a trusted marketplace where manufacturers compete to build more efficient products and consumers can easily identify which items will save them the most money.
Benefits of ENERGY STAR® Certified Windows
ENERGY STAR® approved windows work like a high-performance barrier for your home, keeping both heated and cooled air inside where it belongs. They can help eliminate cold drafts near windows during winter and reduce hot spots caused by solar heat gain during summer. They not only create a more comfortable living space, but can also reduce your utility bills.
There are other benefits of choosing energy-efficient windows, too: Many homeowners appreciate the noise reduction, as these windows typically have multiple panes of glass that help block outside sounds. ENERGY STAR® certified windows also help protect your furniture, carpets, and artwork from fading caused by harmful UV rays. They can even boost your home's resale value, appealing to environmentally conscious buyers and those who recognize the value of quality windows.
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Understanding ENERGY STAR® Certification
ENERGY STAR® certified windows and patio doors must be independently tested and certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), which uses standardized methods that measure how well each product controls heat transfer and solar heat gain. The main measurements include U-factor, which shows how well a window blocks heat flow, and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), which measures how much solar heat passes through.
Performance criteria vary according to ENERGY STAR® climate zones. In cold northern climates, windows need excellent insulation properties measured by low U-factor ratings. Hot southern climates focus more on blocking solar heat gain, which means windows need low SHGC ratings. Coastal areas might need windows that balance both heating and cooling needs. MILGARD is proud to be an ENERGY STAR® partner and offer products that meet the program’s requirements in all regions.
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Tax Credits Available for ENERGY STAR® Products
By installing ENERGY STAR® qualified windows and doors, you might not only save money on heating and cooling costs but may also be eligible for a tax credit. For exterior windows and skylights purchased and installed between January 1, 2023, and December 31, 2032, you can claim 30% of the product cost, up to $600 total. These products must meet the ENERGY STAR® Most Efficient windows criteria, which is a higher standard than regular ENERGY STAR® certification.
For exterior doors, like patio doors, you can claim 30% of the product cost up to $500 total. They only need to meet the regular ENERGY STAR® requirements. For more information, visit the ENERGY STAR® Federal Tax Credits page or the IRS website. You can also download our Manufacturer Certification Statements:
Tax Years 2012-2022: Tax Credit Certification Statement (2012-2022)
Tax Years 2023-2032: Tax Credit Certification Statement (2023-2032)
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Explore MILGARD’s ENERGY STAR® Certified Product Line
From hot desert climates to cold mountain regions, MILGARD has ENERGY STAR® certified windows and doors built for your area. Explore our collection of beautiful, high-performance products that keep your home comfortable in any climate.
FAQs About ENERGY STAR® Windows
Is there a tax deduction for ENERGY STAR® windows?
ENERGY STAR® windows don't qualify for tax deductions, but they do qualify for tax credits, which provide better savings. Tax deductions reduce your taxable income, which means you save money based on your tax bracket. Tax credits, on the other hand, reduce your tax bill dollar-for-dollar, so a $600 credit saves you exactly $600. Currently, you can claim up to $600 for ENERGY STAR® certified windows and $500 for doors.
Are there ENERGY STAR® window rebates?
Yes, you can likely find rebates for ENERGY STAR® certified windows. It’s important to know that rebates are different from tax credits: They come from manufacturers, dealers, and utility companies, not the federal government. Look for rebates and other promotions from your local utility company, and ask your MILGARD dealer about current promotions. You can often combine both rebates and tax credits for maximum savings.
Are ENERGY STAR® windows and doors worth it?
Yes! Installing ENERGY STAR® certified windows, especially when replacing single-pane units, usually delivers noticeable savings on energy costs, while also providing better comfort and UV protection. When you factor in federal tax credits for windows and doors, plus potential rebates, the upfront cost difference gets even smaller—and the long-term benefits continue for decades.