Most industry professionals are aware that the Energy Star requirements for windows and doors changed at the beginning of this year. These changes have significantly impacted several aspects of our business, including product designs, glazings, and tax credit qualifications.
One final change that is now being implemented is the labeling that is applied to each window and door. Energy Star allowed products labeled under their previous guidelines to be used through March 31, 2010, with the use of a transition label. However, beginning April 1, 2010, a new label format will be required.
The previous label utilized a single map of the continental United States with shaded areas representing the four zones of the country designated by Energy Star. This same image was represented on all product labels. Beginning April 1, product labels will be required to depict an image of a map of the United States and Canada. Labels for each product will be printed with a unique version of this map with shading that designates the specific zones where the product is approved.
Another change you will notice is that rather than supplying the acceptable range of air infiltration for the type of product, the actual Air Infiltration Rating for the specific product will be documented on the label. In addition, an energy rating commonly used in Canada, called the ER Rating, will be provided.
This new label format will allow consumers to quickly identify geographic regions for which that product is Energy Star approved. It will also provide the Air Infiltration Rating for their specific product. Over time, this information will educate consumers which will allow them to make wiser purchasing decisions. As designated by the Energy Star Guidelines, Windsor will begin utilizing this new label format by April 1, 2010.