FAQ's - Architectural Heated-Glass

1. Can Thermique heated-glass windows be used in new and existing construction?: Yes. Thermique heated-glass windows can be easily installed into new construction; however, it is more difficult to install into existing construction because an electrician must have access to the inside of walls to do the wiring.
2. Where do most people put Thermique heated-glass windows?: Thermique heated-glass windows can be installed anywhere you can imagine: homes, businesses, hotels, pools, skylights, aquariums, restaurants, and sun spaces used year-round.
3. Can Thermique heated-glass windows act as the sole heating source?: Yes, if you have enough glass surfaces made of Thermique heated-glass. However, we do recommend using it in conjunction with your conventional HVAC system.
4. What is radiant heat?: Radiant heat is the warmth that comes from the surface of a heated object.
5. Are there any visible wires throughout the glass of a Thermique heated-glass window?: No. Thermique heated-glass windows use a clear, conductive film to heat the glass. They look almost identical to normal windows. The only difference is the feeling of warmth.
6. What is the meaning of U-value?: The U-value is a scientific measurement for determining how quickly heat is lost through material. The lower the U-value, the greater the insulation and the lower the heat loss.
7. Is Thermique heated-glass safe to touch?: With a maximum temperature of 100°F (37.7°C), the Thermique heated-glass windows feel warm, but will not burn skin when touched.
8. Can I put curtains or blinds over Thermique heated-glass windows?: Yes, it is safe to place curtains or blinds over Thermique heated-glass windows.
9. How do Thermique heated-glass windows help during the summer months?: Depending on the other films in the unit, window panes coated with Thermique heated-glass coating can block more solar heat during the summer months, which helps to keep the room at a more even temperature.
10. What are the energy savings?: Thermique heated-glass windows are energy efficient because over 80% of the energy applied to the window goes to heating the room. Only preliminary studies have been done on providing overall energy savings.
11. Do Thermique heated-glass windows come in operable windows and doors?: We have developed the prototype for operable doors and it was displayed at the AIA 2007 show in San Antonio, TX. However, the technology usage is still being evaluated for consumer use.
12. What is the typical delivery time?: Windows are currently made to order, so the delivery time depends on the type of window and size of the order.
13. Can I get a sample of Thermique heated-glass?: The best way to see the product is by locating your nearest Thermique dealer. You can find a listing on this website or call 312-326-9193 for more information.
14. How long does it take for a heated-glass window to achieve the desired temperature?: With Thermique heated-glass windows, you can feel the heat coming from the glass immediately. Reaching the desired temperature depends on your specific temperature needs and the overall size of the glass.
15. How long does it take for the room to reach desired temperature?: The time to warm a room to desired temperature depends on many factors including the conventional heating source, the amount of window surface area, and the outside temperature.
16. How thick is the insulating unit?: The Thermique heated pane is 6mm thick.
17. What sizes are available?: With the current 110V system, minimum size is 2.5”x2.5” and maximum size is 72” x 84”. When the 220V system is UL approved, larger sizes will be available.
18. What types of window frames are compatible with Thermique heated-glass windows?: Any type of window frame is compatible. The most common frames are wooden, aluminum, vinyl, and fiberglass.
19. What does UL approved mean?: UL stands for Underwriters Laboratory, which is a standard of approval for mechanical components. Having UL approval means that the product has been tested and is considered safe for consumer use.
20. How long is the warranty for Thermique heated-glass windows?: Thermique heated-glass window panes are warranted for 10 years.
21. How do Thermique heated-glass windows eliminate condensation?: Condensation forms on windows because of temperature differences between the outside and inside glass panes. Thermique heated-glass technology creates less temperature difference between the two panes, therefore eliminating all condensation.
22. Can every window be controlled separately?: Yes, each pane comes with its own controller. The operating wattage you set for each pane determines the overall temperature of the heated-glass window.
23. Is there a remote control option?: In 2008 Thermique heated-glass windows will be available with a digital wall-mounted temperature controller with the possibility of a remote control feature in the near future.
24. What other types of glass can I put on the outside of the Thermique heated-glass pane?: Typically an insulated, Low-E unit is combined with the Thermique heated-glass window pane for maximum energy savings. Any other brand of decorative, colored or spandrel glass is also an options.
25. Does Thermique heated-glass come with 110V, 120V or 220V power supply?: Currently, only a 110 Volt supply is UL approved.
26. Will I get an electric shock if the glass breaks?: Thermique heated-glass windows are equipped with a safety feature that detects broken glass, shuts the controller off and sets off an alarm that there is a problem. The glass will not cause any electrical harm to the operator.
27. Who installs my Thermique heated-glass windows?: An approved glazier installs the window and an electrician provides the hook up.
28. How much does Thermique heated-glass cost?: Every order is different. A Thermique representative can put together a price quote for you based on the square footage of glass and the size of each individual glass panel.
29. Which surface of the glass contains the heat conductive coating?: Typically the outboard side of the inside lite (side 3) is coated with Thermique’s conductive coating. For purposes of ice control, we can coat the outside lite (side 2) instead. Each case is handled on an individual basis.
30. How do I clean my Thermique heated-glass window?: When the glass is cool, use a soft cloth and a gentle glass cleaner to wipe the entire pane. Do not use harsh detergents or textured cloths that may scratch the glass.