Vitro Architectural Glass launches online ENERGY STAR information guide for residential windows

Vitro Architectural Glass (formerly PPG Glass) has launched an online “Guide to ENERGY STAR® Criteria” page at vitrowindowglass.com to help consumers understand the ENERGY STAR program, select windows to maximize energy savings in their homes and find Vitro Glass residential window dealers in their area.

The portal details the most recent ENERGY STAR criteria for residential window energy performance, and provides definitions for designated ratings, such as U-value and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), which are published on every ENERGY STAR-certified window label.

The site also lists all Vitro window glass products that meet prescribed ENERGY STAR criteria in each of the four U.S. climate zones (northern, north/central, south/central, southern) without the assistance of other residential window components, such as framing, spacers and insulating gases.

Homeowners can access a “locator” tool to quickly find dealers that sell ENERGY STAR-certified windows made with Vitro Glass. The tool searches by ZIP code or city, and provides complete contact information and street locations for each dealer in the database.

Brad Boone, residential segment market manager, Vitro Architectural Glass, said the portal is a valuable resource for consumers seeking to reduce their energy bills.

“The more informed consumers are about the ENERGY STAR program, the better decisions they’ll make about the windows they buy,” Boone explained. “With the locator tool, homeowners can type in their address using their mobile phone or PC, and instantly get information on Vitro Glass window dealers near them.”

Visitors can also find answers to frequently-asked questions, learn about the two types of low-e window glass and determine which is best for their area, and discover how selecting the right components can enhance the energy performance of their windows.

Established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1992, ENERGY STAR is a voluntary labeling program to identify and promote the use of energy-efficient products. Originally intended for computers and monitors, the program encompasses 11 product categories, including residential windows.