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It''s clear that energy savings alone won''t justify window replacement (see "Other Considerations in Window Replacement"). If windows are to be replaced in any case, however, the analysis provides justification for an upgrade to high-performance glass. At a cost of $60 andersen per window, the payback on low-e argon filled glass is a reasonable 9 years.And there are other issues to be considered. The companion study on window condition estimated the current value of deferred maintenance at over $1 million, which reduces the comparative cost of window replacement. Comfort and other effects may be difficult to quantify in dollar terms, but they have important costs and benefits. Energy saving is just one factor to be weighed in this complex and expensive replacement decision.Energy savings resulting directly from window replacement is just one of many things to consider in deciding whether and when windows to undertake a major window replacement project. Several andersen other important factors are discussed below. Projected Cost SavingsWe calculated cost savings for the residential units in a spreadsheet, using monthly energy consumption results from Visual DOE and the applicable utility rate, which includes seasonal differences and a block rate that makes energy more expensive after the first 400 kwh. (Visual DOE can do cost analysis, but not using the combination of rates that we needed.) Similarly, we estimated central plant operating costs by applying commercial electric and gas rates to the estimated monthly energy consumption and demand (see Table 2).The value of energy savings attributable to window replacement fell between $.072 and $.092 per kWh of electric energy saved. Estimated total savings across all 720 residential units and the central plants range from about $35,000 per year for storm window replacement to $91,000 per year for the most efficient windows. These savings represent about 5%-12% of the total gas and electric replacement bills for McLean Gardens residents and plants. The simple payback based on energy savings is estimated at around 65 years for storm window replacement, and over windows 80 years for full window replacement. This replacement andersen kit makes replacing old, energy wasting windows, fast and simple. Each kit comes complete with two sash, two vinyl compression balances, one vinyl replacement parting stop, two vinyl windows sash stops, and all necessary installation hardware. Sash are available primed for painting or aluminum clad in assorted colors. Vinyl casement and awning windows now feature Truth Maxim commercial-grade andersen hardware to make them easier to operate, says the firm. All casement and awning windows come standard with fold-down handles to provide replacement extra room for drape and blind clearance around windows. The firm manufactures numerous other products. 724-465-1800. www.gorell.com, Circle 195. Fusion-welded vinyl windows are perfect for new or remodeling applications because they resist water, corrosion, and mold, claims the firm. Available in white and almond, they feature removable nailing fins. Muntins are optional. The company also manufactures aluminum-clad and wood windows as well as patio doors. 800-877-9482. www.summit windows.com. Circle 184. Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork offers vinyl windows. The Wausau, Wis.based, high-end wood window manufacturer will supply a wide selection of vinyl window designs - radius, bow, bay and geometric - through its new KVW Windows & Doors division. The new line includes double hung models, sliders, casements, awnings and sliding doors. A new production plant, located in Manawa, Wis., was scheduled to begin operating in February. ProFinish vinyl windows windows come in double-hung, single-hung, casement, slider, picture, and geometric-shaped styles. The windows, which won''t pit, peel, or chalk, claims the maker, feature welded frames and sashes and integral J-channels. Numerous glass options and grids are available. 800-542-9118. www.simonton.com. andersen and replacement Circle 182. Monument vinyl windows come in white and almond and windows feature fusion-welded mitered corners and multiple hollow chambers for strength, says the firm. The andersen windows come in casement, awning, double-hung, single-hung, and sliding styles. A number of glazing and glass options are available. 800-223-4873, www.hurd.com. Visions 2000 vinyl windows are maintenance-free replacement and won''t rust or corrode, says the windows firm. The windows are available in single-hung, double-hung, casement, and awning styles. The line comes standard with integral nailing fins and fusion-welded corners. Optional grilles and glazes also are available.
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