Considering Energy Efficient Windows

Contributed by QuestionSense Editors

Is there a tax credit for windows under the stimulus package?
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Yes, there is a tax credit for windows placed in service in 2009 and 2010. From January 1 - May 31, 2009 all ENERGY STAR qualified windows can qualify for the tax credit.

Beginning June 1, 2009, to qualify for the tax credit, windows (and doors and skylights) must have a U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) less than or equal to 0.30. This is a super effiicient window, and most ENERGY STAR windows will not qualify.

You can find the U-factor and SHGC on the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label. NFRC is the only federally recognized organization for determining the energy performance of windows, doors and skylights. Please see the NFRC website for information concerning product performance.

This stringent criteria was put in place by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, signed into law on February 17, 2009.
What is the tax credit for windows?
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The tax credit for windows is for 30% of the cost of materials, up to $1,500.
Are installation costs covered under the tax credits?
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No, installation costs are not covered under by the tax credit for windows.
Are there any other incentives available for purchasing energy efficient windows?
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Many local utilities provide financial incentives for purchasing ENERGY STAR qualified windows, doors, and skylights. To find out if rebates or other incentives are available in your area, visit the ENERGY STAR Rebate Finder at www.energystar.gov.
What is the maximum tax credit I can get for the energy efficient home improvements?
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Many of the energy efficiency tax credits are limited to $1,500 combined total for 2009 and 2010. The $1,500 maximum tax credit covers insulation, windows & doors, roofs, HVAC, biomass stoves, and non-solar water heaters.
What makes a window energy efficient?
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~Improved frame materials reduce heat transfer and help to insulate better.

~Low E Glass: Special coating reflect infrared light, keeping heat inside in winter and outside in summer.

~Multiple panes: Two panes of glass (some have more than two) with an air or gas filled space in the middle insulates better than single pane glass.

~Warm Edge Spacers: A spacer keeps the panes the proper distance apart for maximum efficiency.
Why should I install energy efficient windows?
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Energy efficient windows will:
~Save you money by lowering energy bills.
~Protect you from the winter cold and the summer sun.
~Reduce interior fading
~Earn you tax savings
~Lower your carbon footprint.