Thermal vs. ENERGY STAR Windows | Tulsa Replacement Experts

What’s the Difference for Your Tulsa Home?

Are you shopping for replacement windows in Tulsa or nearby areas like Broken Arrow or Claremore? If so, you’ve likely heard of both thermal windows and ENERGY STAR® windows.

Some people think they’re the same—but they’re not. Knowing the difference can save you money, reduce your energy bills, and improve your home’s comfort year-round.

At SRI Energy, we help homeowners in Northeast Oklahoma choose certified energy-efficient windows that truly perform—not just ones that sound good in a sales pitch.

How to Identify ENERGY STAR® Windows

True ENERGY STAR® certified windows will always have an NFRC label (from the National Fenestration Rating Council). This label shows that the window was independently tested, not just “claimed” to be energy-efficient by a manufacturer.

Pro Tip: Ask to see the NFRC label on any window you buy. If it doesn’t have one, it’s not ENERGY STAR® certified.

Image suggestion:
A photo of the NFRC label with ALT TEXT: “ENERGY STAR NFRC window label showing verified energy performance ratings.”

Why NFRC Ratings Matter

When you upgrade your windows, you want:

• Verified energy efficiency
• Independent performance testing
• The best insulation for Oklahoma’s hot and cold seasons

Without this label, “thermal windows” may only meet internal company standards, which vary and often lack third-party testing.

Understanding Window Ratings (Simplified)

Shopping for windows can feel overwhelming—so here’s what you really need to know:

🔹 U-Factor

• What it means: Measures how well a window keeps heat inside during winter
• Best choice: Lower = better insulation

🔹 SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient)

• What it means: Measures how much solar heat gets through the window
• Best choice: Lower SHGC values are ideal for Tulsa’s hot summers

🔹 Air Leakage

• What it means: Measures how much air leaks around the window frame
• Best choice: Lower = tighter seal and higher efficiency

🔹 R-Value (Related to U-Factor)

• What it means: Measures resistance to heat flow
• Best choice: Higher = better energy performance

Quick Tip: If you’re comparing windows, start with the U-Factor. It’s the easiest way to spot high-performance options.

Why ENERGY STAR® Windows Are Worth It

ENERGY STAR® certified windows don’t just look good on paper—they deliver real benefits:

• Lower heating and cooling bills
• More consistent room temperatures
• Less outside noise
• Boost in home resale value
• May qualify for rebates or tax credits like ENERGY STAR’s federal programs

Looking for financing or rebate help? SRI Energy offers both.

Why Homeowners Choose SRI Energy

Tulsa-area homeowners trust us because:

✔ We offer certified ENERGY STAR® windows
✔ Our team includes BPI Certified Building Scientists
✔ We’re honest, transparent, and affordable
✔ Financing is available
✔ We specialize in home weatherization and insulation too

Schedule Your Free Consultation

Ready to stop wasting energy through your old windows?

👉 Click here to schedule a FREE consultation with SRI Energy
We’ll help you choose the right windows for your home—and your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are thermal windows the same as ENERGY STAR® windows?
A: No. Only windows with an NFRC label are ENERGY STAR® certified. “Thermal” is a general term and doesn’t guarantee performance.

Q: What window ratings should I pay attention to?
A: Focus on the U-Factor, SHGC, and Air Leakage. In Tulsa, go for low U-Factor and SHGC values to keep your home cool.

Q: Are ENERGY STAR® windows worth the cost?
A: Yes! They lower your bills, improve comfort, and may qualify for tax incentives or utility rebates.

Q: How can SRI Energy help?
A: We offer ENERGY STAR® certified windows, expert installation, and honest advice based on Oklahoma’s unique climate.

Alex Green Home Energy Efficiency Expert

Alex Green is a passionate and knowledgeable content creator specializing in home energy efficiency. With a background in environmental science and digital marketing, Alex has a deep understanding of how insulation, windows, and smart home upgrades contribute to energy savings. They are skilled at translating technical concepts into engaging, easy-to-understand blog content for homeowners looking to improve comfort, reduce energy costs, and make eco-friendly choices.

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