Getting Your Home Ready for Spring and Summer: The Energy Star Way

High electricity bills aren’t just a winter problem. As spring and summer arrive, cooling your home can get costly, especially if your windows and doors aren't up to par. Upgrading to ENERGY STAR® certified products can help you stay comfortable without sending your energy bills soaring. From reducing your energy bills to enhancing comfort, ENERGY STAR-rated windows and doors can make a major difference.

At GEM Windows & Doors, we’re proud to offer a wide range of ENERGY STAR-certified options to help Canadian homeowners get the most out of their space, all while staying cool in summer and warm in winter.

Why ENERGY STAR Matters in Canada

ENERGY STAR Canada sets strict standards for energy efficiency. Choosing ENERGY STAR windows and doors means you’re getting products that have been independently tested and certified to meet these standards. ENERGY STAR windows and doors in Canada are designed to minimize heat transfer, reduce air leaks, and help cut down on your heating and cooling costs.

Whether you're focused on increasing energy efficiency or improving home comfort, ENERGY STAR is your go-to guide. GEM has earned recognition as a trusted ENERGY STAR Retailer of the Year, demonstrating our commitment to sourcing, installing, and standing behind the best energy-efficient products.

How important is an ENERGY STAR rating?

An ENERGY STAR rating is a key indicator of energy efficiency, making it an important factor when choosing windows and doors for your home. Products with this certification meet strict performance standards set by environmental agencies, helping to reduce energy consumption, lower utility bills, and minimize environmental impact. ENERGY STAR-rated windows and doors are specifically designed to keep your home more comfortable year-round by improving insulation and reducing drafts. Investing in these energy-efficient options not only enhances your home’s performance but can also increase its overall value.

Getting Your Home Energy-Efficient for Spring and Summer

While many homeowners focus on energy upgrades during winter, preparing your home for spring and summer is just as important to keep cooling costs down and indoor comfort high. Here’s how you can improve your home’s energy efficiency by either enhancing your current windows or considering new window upgrades:

Improving Your Existing Windows

If your windows are in good condition, there are several effective steps you can take to boost their efficiency for warmer months:

• Seal Air Leaks: Check for gaps or cracks around windows, doors, and attic hatches. Sealing these leaks prevents cool air from escaping, reducing your air conditioning load and lowering energy bills.

• Use Window Coverings and Shades: South and west-facing windows often let in more heat. Installing ENERGY STAR-rated window coverings or shades can block excess sunlight and keep your home cooler.

• Apply Low-E Window Films: Low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings or films can be added to existing windows to reflect infrared heat and protect interiors from UV damage, improving comfort and efficiency.

Upgrading to New Energy-Efficient Windows

If your windows are old, single-pane, or drafty, upgrading to new ENERGY STAR-rated windows can make a significant difference:

• Choose Double or Triple Glazing: Multi-pane windows provide better insulation, keeping unwanted heat outside and maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature.

• Look for Built-in Low-E Coatings: Many ENERGY STAR windows come with factory-applied Low-E coatings that enhance energy efficiency by reflecting heat and blocking UV rays.

• Ensure Proper Installation: No matter the window type, professional installation is critical. Certified installers, such as those from GEM, ensure your windows perform at their best and deliver the energy savings you expect.

Taking these steps will help you enjoy a cooler, more comfortable home during spring and summer while reducing energy costs and your environmental footprint. Whether you choose to enhance your current windows or invest in new ones, proper care and quality installation are key to maximizing benefits.

Featured ENERGY STAR Products for Spring and Summer

1. Aluminum Doors & Patio Doors

Aluminum is durable, modern, and low maintenance. When combined with thermal breaks and high-performance glass, aluminum doors and aluminum patio doors become excellent insulators. ENERGY STAR aluminum doors help block outdoor heat while maintaining a sleek, contemporary look.

Choose ENERGY STAR patio doors to let in more light while keeping your energy use in check. These doors are great for improving indoor-outdoor flow, perfect for summer entertaining.

2. Steel Interior Doors

Steel doors aren't just for security—they also perform well in energy efficiency when insulated properly. ENERGY STAR rated steel interior doors provide excellent thermal insulation and noise reduction. They're also extremely durable and require little upkeep.

3. Fiberglass Doors

Fiberglass entry doors are one of the most energy-efficient options on the market. ENERGY STAR fiberglass entry doors resist warping and cracking while providing outstanding insulation and long-term durability. Plus, they come in a wide range of finishes to suit your style.

4. Aluminum-Clad Windows

These windows combine the strength and low-maintenance exterior of aluminum with the energy efficiency of wood or vinyl interiors. ENERGY STAR aluminum-clad windows help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy loss. They’re ideal for homeowners who want modern performance with classic design flexibility.

5. Sliding and Standard Patio Doors

ENERGY STAR sliding patio doors and standard patio doors are designed to keep conditioned air inside and extreme temperatures outside. Whether you're upgrading for better access to your deck or to increase energy efficiency, these doors are a smart spring and summer upgrade.

How GEM Can Help

With over 60 years in business, GEM Windows & Doors offers expert advice, product variety, and professional installation. Our 5,000 sq. ft. Toronto showroom lets you explore all the options in person, from energy-efficient aluminum windows and doors to high-performance fiberglass and steel. Our team will help you understand ENERGY STAR requirements and guide you to the best windows and doors for your home.

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Our team listens, evaluates, and presents solutions tailored to your needs and budget. And because proper installation is just as important as the product itself, our certified install teams ensure your investment performs the way it should.

Ready for an Upgrade?

If you're thinking about energy-efficient renovations this spring or summer, now’s the time to start. From ENERGY STAR most efficient windows in Canada to high-performance patio doors, GEM Windows & Doors has the solutions you need.

Let GEM help you enjoy every season—with comfort, style, and efficiency built right in.

Contact our GEM representative to get you started with summer and spring savings!