Humber/Ontario Real Estate Course 4 Exam Practice

What window feature aids in improving energy efficiency by reflecting long-wave radiation?

1. Double-paned glass

2. Glazing

3. Inert gas fill

4. Low-E coating

5. Triple-paned glass

6. U-value

The correct answer is: Low-E coating

The choice of Low-E coating as the correct answer highlights its significant role in enhancing energy efficiency in windows. Low-E, or low-emissivity, coatings are thinly applied to the glass surface, allowing visible light to pass through while reflecting long-wave infrared radiation. This is crucial in maintaining indoor temperatures. By reflecting this long-wave radiation, Low-E coatings help keep heat inside during the colder months and reduce heat entry in warmer months. This not only contributes to a comfortable indoor environment but also lowers heating and cooling costs, making them a popular choice in energy-efficient window designs. While double-paned glass, inert gas fills, and triple-paned glass are also effective in improving a window's insulation properties, these features primarily focus on reducing heat transfer through conduction and convection rather than specifically reflecting long-wave radiation. Glazing refers broadly to the glass material itself and doesn't provide benefits like the Low-E coating. The U-value measures the rate of heat transfer but does not describe any specific window feature that actively reflects heat. Thus, Low-E coating stands out as the feature most directly associated with reflecting long-wave radiation for energy efficiency.