Select New Efficient Replacement Windows

2. Look for windows that qualify for ENERGY STAR® and Tax Credit

To help consumers find energy-efficient windows, doors and skylights, the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have developed an ENERGY STAR designation for products meeting certain energy efficiency criteria. Since the energy performance of windows varies by climate, these criteria vary among four U.S. climate zones. Ask for products that qualify in your climate and check the ENERGY STAR label to verify that your area is highlighted on the climate zone map.

Replacement windows, doors and skylights installed in 2011 may qualify for a federal tax credit of 10% of the purchase price (not including installation costs). This tax credit allows homeowners who made qualified home energy efficiency upgrades in 2011 to reduce their income tax by up to $500, of which up to $200 can be claimed for windows and skylights. All windows, doors and skylights that meet the ENERGY STAR criteria for your climate qualify for the tax credit.

Tax credit information and directory of qualifying products»

Whether windows meet the criteria for ENERGY STAR and the tax credit is determined based on energy ratings that are independently validated according to National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) procedures. These ratings can also help you distinguish among the energy performance characteristics of different qualifying products.

3. Compare window energy ratings»