ENERGY STAR vs. Florida Energy Code:
What’s the Difference?
Two overlapping standards, one goal — here’s which one applies to your Florida home and project.
Understanding Both
The Two Standards Explained
ENERGY STAR
Voluntary Federal Certification
A voluntary EPA program. Products that earn ENERGY STAR certification meet specific efficiency thresholds set by the federal government. It’s a quality indicator — not a legal requirement.
Florida Energy Code
Mandatory State Law
FBC Chapter 13 is mandatory for all permitted window and door replacements in Florida. Non-compliance results in failed inspections. Florida’s code is often stricter than ENERGY STAR in hot-humid climate zones.
For Florida Homeowners
FBC compliance is required. ENERGY STAR certification is a bonus indicator of efficiency. Most Maker’s Windows & Doors products carry both.
Side by Side
Comparison at a Glance
| Metric | ENERGY STAR | Florida Code (FBC) | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| U-Factor Requirement | ≤0.30 (Climate Zone 2) | ≤0.40 (FBC Ch. 13) | ENERGY STAR is stricter on U-factor |
| SHGC Requirement | ≤0.25 (Climate Zone 2) | ≤0.25 (most FL zones) | Equivalent in most Florida zones |
| Required? | No — voluntary | Yes — mandatory for all permitted work | FBC compliance is non-negotiable |
| Who Sets It | U.S. EPA (federal) | Florida Building Commission (state) | Two separate governing bodies |
U-Factor Requirement
ENERGY STAR
≤0.30 (Climate Zone 2)
Florida Code
≤0.40 (FBC Ch. 13)
ENERGY STAR is stricter on U-factor
SHGC Requirement
ENERGY STAR
≤0.25 (Climate Zone 2)
Florida Code
≤0.25 (most FL zones)
Equivalent in most Florida zones
Required?
ENERGY STAR
No — voluntary
Florida Code
Yes — mandatory for all permitted work
FBC compliance is non-negotiable
Who Sets It
ENERGY STAR
U.S. EPA (federal)
Florida Code
Florida Building Commission (state)
Two separate governing bodies
Get Started Today
Get products that meet both ENERGY STAR and Florida Code.
Every window we install is FBC-compliant and ENERGY STAR certified. You get efficiency and code compliance in one product.