According to data collected by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the average American pays nearly $121 per month for electricity, which adds up to $1,452 a year. Optimizing your windows and doors is one of the biggest ways to help reduce energy costs.
In fact, upgrading to ENERGY STAR-qualified windows can help you save on yearly household energy bills. These savings can even be up to $500 a year, depending on your location and the type of window you’re upgrading from. Keep reading to learn about the six most energy-efficient window providers in 2023, their costs, ratings, and much more.
Which Companies Offer the Most Efficient Windows?
The best windows to improve your home’s energy efficiency have multiple panes of glass, an ENERGY STAR certification, and other features like argon gas fill.
Here is our list of the top window replacement companies that offer efficient window options and what makes them stand out:
- Champion: Best Customer Service
- Renewal by Andersen: Best Quality Window Frames
- Window Nation: Most Customization Options
- Universal Windows Direct: Most Affordable
- Window World: Best Window Selection
- Castle Windows: Best Window Warranty
Quick Tips When Looking for Efficient Windows
So, what makes a window energy-efficient? These are the top features you should look for when selecting high-performance windows to improve your home’s energy efficiency:
- Several panes of glass: A single-pane window offers less insulation for your home than a double-pane window or triple-pane window. The more panes of glass, the better the energy efficiency, insulation, and soundproofing.
- Low-E glass coating: Low-E glass coats are thin metallic coatings on the window glass. The coating prevents outside heat from entering the home during the summer and halts heat escape during the winter. In both cases it reduces energy bills.
- Gas fills: The space between panes of glass is often filled with odorless, nontoxic gases like argon gas or krypton gas. These dense gases improve window insulation.
- Weatherstripping: Air leaks and drafts from loose seals affect your energy bills. Look for windows with a high-quality, tight weatherstrip, ideally made from a fibrous material to keep the draft out.
- Warm edge spacers: Spacers help form the seal around panes of glass as they touch the window frame. Warm-edge spacers are ideal for energy efficiency because they insulate the window and minimize heat transfer.
Compare the Top-Rated Companies That Offer Efficient Windows
| Champion | Renewal by Andersen | Window Nation | Universal Windows Direct | Window World | Castle Windows | |
| Our Rating | 85.5 | 81.5 | 76.5 | 80.5 | 81.5 | 78.5 |
| BBB Rating | Not Rated | A+ | Not Rated | A | A+ | A+ |
| Average Price Per Window | $850–$1,200 | $1,200+ | $550–$850 | $350–$550 | $550–$850 | $550–$850 |
| Offers Free Consultation | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Energy-efficient Windows Available | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Offers Custom Financing | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty | 20-year glass/parts warranty | Lifetime Plus Warranty | True Lifetime Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty | Lifetime Warranty |
Champion: Best Customer Service
We gave Champion the Best Customer Service superlative for its solid reputation among window providers and for its 65 years of experience in the industry. Champion offers energy-efficient windows and quality installations to American homeowners.
Why We Picked Champion
Champion is a full-service window provider that has in-home consultations, virtual consultations, and an online chat feature, providing multiple points of communication. It receives consistently positive customer feedback, indicating its overall customer service is a strength.
You can read our full review of Champion Windows for more information.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- White-glove customer service
- Many customization options
- 4.5 (out of 5) Google rating
- Frequent discounts and promotions
Cons
- Only offers vinyl window frames
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Not BBB accredited
What We Don’t Like
We don’t love that Champion has no rating by or accreditation from the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Despite this, it has strong customer reviews, indicating buyers’ overall positive experience with the company.
| Our Rating | 85.5 / 100 |
| BBB Rating | Not Rated |
| Average Price Range | $850–$1,200 per window |
| Offers Free Consultation | Yes |
| Energy-efficient Windows Available | Yes |
| Offers Custom Financing | Yes |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime warranty for all parts and workmanship |
| Window Types | Bay Casement Double-hung Garden Glass block Hopper/awning Picture Sliding Specialty |
Visit the Champion website to schedule your free consultation.
Renewal by Andersen: Best Quality Window Frames
We recommend Renewal by Andersen for its Best Quality Window Frames. Its frames are incredibly durable, high-quality, and great for increasing your home’s curb appeal.
Why We Picked Renewal by Andersen
Renewal by Andersen is known for having high-quality window frames. Anderson uses its patented Fibrex framing, made from durable wood composites and polymers. This material also improves weathertight protection, maximizing the windows’ energy efficiency. The manufacturing process even saves on landfill waste because Fibrex is made from reclaimed materials.
Read our full review of Renewal by Andersen for additional information about its ENERGY STAR window options.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Patented Fibrex window frame materials
- Detailed window installation and cleanup
- Weathertight protection and insulating properties
- ENERGY STAR-certified window options
Cons
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Only offers vinyl frames
- More expensive than other window companies
What We Don’t Like
Renewal by Andersen is more expensive than some of its competitors. We also don’t love that its warranty has a limited structure with only 20 years of protection for glass and Fibrex, 10 years of protection for hardware components, and two years of protection for workmanship and installation.
| Our Rating | 81.5 / 100 |
| BBB Rating | A+ |
| Average Price Range | $1,200+ per window |
| Offers Free Consultation | Yes |
| Energy-efficient Windows Available | Yes |
| Offers Custom Financing | Yes |
| Warranty | 20-year glass and Fibrex material warranty 10-year warranty for locks, hinges, and other components 2-year professional installation warranty |
| Window Types | Awning Bay Casement Double-hung Picture Sliding Specialty |
Visit the Renewal by Andersen website to request a free estimate.
Window Nation: Most Customization Options
Window Nation received our Most Customization Options title because of its multiple window frame material options, its vast customizable window selection, and many specialty products (such as doors). We also love the company’s dedication to customer education with an extensive resource library and a home improvement visualizer tool.
Why We Picked Window Nation
Window Nation has more than 1,500 custom window and door style combinations, giving you plenty of options to find a suitable, energy-efficient window.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Lifetime warranty
- More affordable price points
- Vinyl and wood frames offered
Cons
- Been in business for less than 20 years
- Only available in certain parts of the country
- Not rated by the BBB
What We Don’t Like
The biggest drawback of Window Nation is its limited availability. The company has only 20 showrooms across the country, so homeowners outside of the East Coast will struggle to find its windows.
| Our Rating | 76.5 / 100 |
| BBB Rating | Not Rated |
| Average Price Range | $550–$850 per window |
| Offers Free Consultation | Yes |
| Energy-efficient Windows Available | Yes |
| Offers Custom Financing | Yes |
| Warranty | Lifetime-plus warranty for as long as the buyer owns the home |
| Window Types | Awning Double-hung Vent Slider Casement Bay windows Bow Garden Specialty |
Visit the Window Nation website to schedule your free consultation.
Universal Windows Direct: Most Affordable
Staying within your budget is important when choosing a window and a brand. We’ve given Universal Windows Direct our Most Affordable label because of its low prices, which typically range from $350 to $550 per window.
Why We Picked Universal Windows Direct
It’s hard to find a more affordable, energy-efficient window than what Universal Windows Direct offers. We also like that the company offers specialty energy-efficient window packages.
Rear our comprehensive Universal Windows Direct review to discover more about its products.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Offers Low-E glass coating and tinted options
- Many customization options
- True lifetime warranty
Cons
- Doesn’t have in-house contractors
- Website is not user-friendly
- Limited window options
What We Don’t Like
Universal Windows Direct only offers seven window types, so it’s not an option if you need specialized window shapes or customization. However, the company provides plenty of energy-efficient options, like Low-E tinted windows.
| Our Rating | 80.5 / 100 |
| BBB Rating | A |
| Average Price Range | $350–$550 per window |
| Offers Free Consultation | Yes |
| Energy-efficient Windows Available | Yes |
| Offers Custom Financing | Yes |
| Warranty | True Lifetime Warranty for parts, frames, hardware, and installation. Warranty is transferable to a subsequent homeowner for 30 years. |
| Window Types | Awning Bay Casement Double-hung Garden Hopper Picture Sliding |
Visit the Universal Windows Direct website for a free estimate.
Window World: Best Window Selection
Window World earned our Best Window Selection title for its impressive window styles and customization options. Founded in 1947, the company has plenty of experience in the industry and manufactures all of its windows in the United States.
Why We Picked Window World
If you need specialty replacement windows or unique customization options, Window World is a solid choice. It even sells single-hung windows, which aren’t widely available.
Find out more in our Window World review.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- A+ rating from the BBB
- Large selection of window customizations
- Offers educational how-to videos on window maintenance
- Low-E and tinted glass coating available
Cons
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Higher price point than some competitors
- Doesn’t have all in-house contractors
What We Don’t Like
Window World is not as affordable as other companies on our list. We also don’t like that Window World only offers a limited lifetime warranty on parts, glass, and installation.
| Our Rating | 85.5 / 100 |
| BBB Rating | A+ |
| Average Price Range | $550–$850 per window |
| Offers Free Consultation | Yes |
| Energy-efficient Windows Available | Yes |
| Offers Custom Financing | Yes |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime warranty for parts, glass, and installation |
| Window Types | Acrylic block Awning Bay Casement Double-hung Garden Hopper Picture Single-hung Sliding Specialty Impact and storm windows |
Visit the Window World website to schedule your free consultation.
Castle Windows: Best Window Warranty
Castle Windows receives our Best Window Warranty title because of its lifetime warranty on its products and workmanship. The company uses certified installers, has free consultations, and disposes of your old windows.
Why We Picked Castle Windows
We picked Castle Windows because of its lifetime warranty, which exceeds warranties of many of its competitors. We also like that the company has many window styles and glass coating options.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Lifetime warranty on products and workmanship
- Educational tutorials available on its website
- A+ BBB rating
- Double-pane and triple-pane windows available
Cons
- Poor customer satisfaction ratings
- Limited customization options
- Doesn’t offer tinted glass coatings
What We Don’t Like
We don’t recommend Castle Windows if you need much customization. It has custom sizes and shapes but lacks hardware, color, and grille options.
| Our Rating | 78.5 / 100 |
| BBB Rating | A+ |
| Average Price Range | $550–$850 per window |
| Offers Free Consultation | Yes |
| Energy-efficient Windows Available | Yes |
| Offers Custom Financing | Yes |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty guarantee on all products and workmanship |
| Window Types | Awning Bay Casement Double-hung Garden Hopper Specialty Sliding Transom |
Contact Castle Windows for a free quote.
Our Ratings of the Best 6 Companies for Efficient Windows
| Champion | Renewal by Andersen | Window Nation | Universal Windows Direct | Window World | Castle Windows | |
| Product Offerings (out of 40) | 34 | 35 | 35 | 29 | 38 | 30 |
| Affordability (out of 25) | 21 | 20 | 21 | 25 | 21 | 18 |
| Company Reputation (out of 15) | 10.5 | 12.5 | 7.5 | 10.5 | 12.5 | 12.5 |
| Service Offerings (out of 10) | 10 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 8 |
| Warranty & Support (out of 10) | 10 | 5 | 4 | 10 | 8 | 10 |
| Total Score (out of 100) | 85.5 | 81.5 | 76.5 | 80.5 | 85.5 | 78.5 |
How Do Energy-saving Windows Work?
Energy-saving windows combine multiple energy-efficient features, like gas fill, multiple windowpanes, Low-E tints, and more. The combination of them reduces your energy costs, improves your home’s value, and provides other benefits like noise reduction.
Better Window Insulation
Dual-pane windows have better insulation, reduce air leakage, and stop UV rays from entering the home and fading your furniture and wall decorations.
You can expect lower energy bills when you upgrade to more energy-efficient windows. Low-E glass tints insulates your home during the winter, which helps keep heating bills low, and lowers summer air conditioning costs by decreasing the ultraviolet rays that warm your home. Tinted windows are another option for reducing natural light and furniture fading.
Greater Noise Reduction
No homeowner wants to lie down for a good night’s sleep only to hear neighbors and traffic. Many energy-efficient windows double as excellent noise reducers, primarily because they use double or triple panes and tight seals.
Less Window Condensation
Window condensation causes paint to peel, wood to rot, and creates spots on your ceilings and walls. It can also provide mold with the water it needs to grow. Less condensation is easier on your wallet long-term because you won’t have as many home repairs.
What Are the Different Options for Energy-efficient Windows?
Energy-efficient windows are made in multiple ways, and they often include a combination of features to get the most energy savings. Typically, this is achieved by combining efficient window glass and an efficient window frame material. Our breakdown of these energy-efficient options is below.
Types of Efficient Window Glass
Double-pane and triple-pane glass are the most common types of window glass used in energy-efficient homes. The more insulative the frame material is, the more energy-efficient the glass will be, which is why triple-pane windows are the most highly recommended.
Low-E glass tints are another critical choice for window glass because they reflect UV and infrared light, which can unnecessarily warm the house and make your HVAC system work overtime.
We recommend a triple-pane window with a Low-E glass tint for the most bang for your buck and the highest energy efficiency.
Types of Efficient Window Frame Materials
Window frames made from vinyl, or fiberglass, are high-quality, durable, and energy-efficient because of the tight fit and UV ray resistance.
Aluminum windows transfer hot and cold temperatures, making them less energy-efficient than wood and vinyl windows.
Lastly, wood windows are an excellent energy-efficient window frame material. However, this material requires significant maintenance and is much more expensive than other window frame materials.
Our preferred type for efficient window frame materials is vinyl because it’s widely available, more affordable, and energy-efficient.
How Can You Save Money on Energy-efficient Windows?
In addition to being better for the environment, energy-efficient windows are money-savers that can make a significant difference in your yearly energy bills and more.
Tax Credit
Homeowners can earn up to $3,200 a year to reduce the cost of energy-efficient home improvements by up to 30%. Improvements include installing insulation and adding energy-efficient windows, heat pumps, and solar panels.
Energy Bills
When upgrading to ENERGY STAR-certified windows, you’ll find that they provide better insulation, reducing your heating and cooling costs by an estimated 12%.
Secondary Benefits
You invest a lot of money on your wood floors, drapes, carpets, and furniture. The last thing you want is to have sunlight fade these items. Efficient windows reduce UV rays entering the home, protecting your home and furniture from sun damage.
So, What Is the Most Energy-efficient Window for Your Home?
The best energy-efficient window for your home will depend on your location, climate, budget, and what you’re upgrading from. Fortunately, many window providers on the market offer various energy-efficient window options.
We recommend taking advantage of window providers’ free estimates and consultations and scheduling appointments with representatives from multiple window brands like Champion and Renewal by Andersen.
Set up your free consultations by clicking the links below:
FAQs About Most Efficient Windows
What is an efficient window?
Energy-efficient windows are built to minimize heated or cooled air from escaping your home, so your HVAC system doesn’t need to work harder. These windows can keep your home at a more consistent temperature, prevent furniture fading, and reduce energy bills.
Are energy-efficient windows worth it?
Energy-efficient windows are worth it for many homeowners. Homeowners can save up to 12% on their energy bills each year, which is several hundred dollars annually in many places.
Are energy-efficient windows tax-deductible?
You may be able to take a tax credit or deduction if you make energy-saving improvements, like installing energy-efficient windows, in your home. Consult an accountant to weigh your options and consider the overall energy savings you can reap before making your final decision.
Methodology: How We Rank Window Companies
At Today’s Homeowner, we strive to bring you the most transparent, accurate information for your home improvement projects. Our window company ratings emphasize what matters most to you — a wide range of well-designed products with reliable installation and great curb appeal.
Our ratings are based on publicly available information about each company, secret shopping online and over the phone, customer-review analysis, and discussions with renovation and building experts. A company can earn a maximum of 100 points across five categories, converted to a five-star scale. We researched dozens of windows installation and replacement companies to develop the following formula:
- Product Offerings (30 points): Window installers can earn the maximum point value in this category if they offer a wide variety of window styles, frame materials, hardware designs, and glass and coating options. Companies earn more points if they design custom windows for your home. We also score the quality and energy efficiency of the windows each company installs.
- Service Offerings (10 points): When evaluating this category, we consider factors such as consultations, post-installation cleanup, and additional product offerings. We also look at each company's installation team structure — including whether it uses certified window installers or subcontractors to complete work — as this can cause variances in quality.
- Affordability (25 points): Our affordability rating considers the provider’s average window prices and how they align with industry averages, as well as discounts and payment plans.
- Warranty and Support (20 points): A best-in-class window installer will back up its work with a solid warranty to give you added peace of mind. Companies receive the maximum point value in this category if they offer lifetime warranties for their products and workmanship.
- Company Reputation (15 points): To ensure we’re recommending worthwhile installers, we check each company’s reputation and standing with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). We also consider how many years of experience it has in the window industry.
We monitor company data on an ongoing basis to keep rankings and information up to date.
