Replacement Windows – Tax Credit Available

Beware – not all energy star rated replacement windows qualify for the federal tax credit.

The previous tax credit in effect back in 2007 had different requirements than the present program.  In 2007 any Energy Star rated window qualified.  In 2009 and 2010 that is no longer true.

The energy efficiency requirements for a window to be tax credit eligible are now more restrictive.  You can find these energy ratings on the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label.  This label, pictured to the right, is attached to each window.  The first two numbers on the label are the energy efficiency ratings of the window.  These ratings are for the whole window, glass package, sash and frame, not just the glass.  The lower these numbers the more efficient the window.

The first number is the U Factor.  This is a measurement of the window’s ability to keep heat in the the winter time.  Real important in Minnesota.  The second is the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) which measures the window’s ability to keep heat out in the summer.

Again, the lower these numbers the less energy it will take to keep your house comfortable.  The label at the right shows the ratings required for a window to be eligible for the tax credit.  A window can be Energy Star rated with a U Factor as high as .35, so make sure the windows you buy not only carry the Energy Star sticker, but that they are efficient enough to be rated at .30 or lower.

Remember you need a .30 .30 replacement window to receive your 30% tax credit.