ENERGY STAR Qualified Replacement Windows and Doors May Earn Homeowners Up to $500 Tax Credit

Homeowners may be eligible to receive a one-time credit of up to $500 on their 2007 federal income tax if they purchase and install ENERGY STAR® qualified windows and doors before December 31, 2007 .

In addition to the tax savings, energy efficient replacement windows can also significantly reduce heating and cooling costs. With rising energy costs and the return of cooler weather fast approaching, many homeowners are actively looking for ways to reduce their monthly heating bills.

According to ENERGY STAR, the average American household spends $1,900 annually on energy bills and as much as half of that energy cost goes to heating and cooling your home.

Homeowners who want to make a big impact on reducing their energy bills can start by looking out the window. Or rather, at the window. Traditionally, poor performing windows and doors have been the weak energy link in homes, often accounting for up to 40 percent of a home's heat loss during the winter.

Craig Evanich, president of Renewal by Andersen, suggests homeowners look at key energy efficiency designations from their replacement windows such as product certification and labeling via the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) and qualification by ENERGY STAR, a voluntary program issued by the US Department of Energy (DOE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

NFRC's goal is to provide a credible certification and labeling program providing consumers a reliable way to make product comparisons. NFRC ratings are provided for the entire product (glass, frame and sash/panel) and not just glass only. Evanich says, "When comparing windows, be sure to check a window's U-Factor on the NFRC label. A window with a lower U-Factor has better insulation properties, reduces heat loss during the heating season and provides more comfort. U-Factors can range from 0.15 to 1.20. In colder climates, a factor of 0.35 or lower is recommended."

The ENERGY STAR program sets energy efficiency requirements for heat loss and heat gain based on different climate zones. The ENERGY STAR label is designed to help homeowners make energy efficient choices and achieve substantial savings in heating and cooling costs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, replacing inefficient single pane windows with ENERGY STAR qualified windows could save up to 15 percent on your energy bills.

Homeowners are increasingly seeking products that not only help reduce their energy consumption, but do so in an environmentally responsible manner. This means taking into consideration the full product life-cycle, from materials to manufacturing and use to recycling and disposal.

According to Evanich, every Renewal by Andersen® window frame is manufactured using a patented composite material that is a blend of 40 percent reclaimed wood fiber and 60 percent thermoplastic polymers by volume. This low-maintenance framing material never needs painting or scraping, reducing waste created by ongoing maintenance.*

Wood fibers used in this composite material are reclaimed directly from manufacturing processes, helping to minimize the overall impact on the environment. In fact, in 2001 Renewal by Andersen became the first replacement window manufacturer to earn Green Seal certification, and continues to be the only replacement window manufacturer to be Green Seal certified today. This designation identifies a product as environmentally preferable, demonstrating it meets energy efficiency requirements and is manufactured in an environmentally conscious manner.

Evanich says that a window's durability is key to making energy efficient windows an investment for the long term, and avoiding future waste. He suggests shopping for quality windows that are supported by a strong warranty and that shoppers look for long-term value over price. "Saving a few dollars now could mean another replacement project just a few years down the road," said Evanich.

About Renewal by Andersen
Renewal by Andersen is the start-to-finish replacement window division of Andersen Corporation. The company offers homeowners a replacement process that includes in-home consultation, manufacturing, and installation through one of the largest nationwide networks of window replacement specialists spanning coast to coast.

For a complimentary in-home consultation, or to view more information about Renewal by Andersen, visit http://www.renewalbyandersen.com

** Most Renewal by Andersne windows and doors with High-Performance™ Low-E4® glass will qualify when used for remodeling or home improvement. Please consult your tax planner and review all IRS guidelines. Rnewal by Andersen is not a tax advistor and bears no responsibility in the validation of obtaining the tax credit
*See the Renewal by Andersen limited warranty."ENERGY STAR" is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
"Renewal by Andersen" and all other marks where denoted, are trademarks of Andersen Corporation.
©2007 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved.

Source: PRWeb