Internationally Trained Energy Expert Les Harden Launches Harden Energy in Greater Cincinnati

Oct. 1, 2012 - PRLog -- Contact:
Les Harden, Owner
Harden Energy
Phone: (859) 640-9376
E-mail: les@hardenenergy.com
Website: http://www.hardenenergy.com

Internationally Trained Energy Expert Les Harden Launches Harden Energy
Greater Cincinnati Company Specializes in Highly Energy Efficient Windows

Ft. Thomas, Kentucky (October 1, 2012) – Think all windows are the same? According to Les Harden, they’re not.

Harden – an internationally trained energy expert with advanced knowledge in building science and green energy – has recently launched Harden Energy. The Ft. Thomas, Kentucky-based outfit offers advanced-energy windows and doors in Greater Cincinnati that “are reasonably priced and go beyond what others mostly offer,” he says.

“Windows are one of the most advertised and misrepresented products in the industry today,” says Harden. “Everyone is an ‘expert’ and sells so-called energy-efficient windows, with the claim that you will save so much money.” But, according to Harden, while all window manufacturers offer some energy options, many do not offer all the best energy options.

For instance, Harden points out that the highest quality vinyl windows have a wider frame, making them structurally stronger. “Wider frames allow for greater spacing between the panes of glass. Good double pane windows require a minimum of a three-quarters inch of space between the panes of glass for the greatest energy efficiency, as compared to a half-inch of space for lower-priced windows.” Also, when frames are wider, Harden says this allows for the spaces inside the frame and sash to be filled with foam insulation, thus helping to keep the frame warmer and resulting in reduced condensation.

Harden also indicates that correct window design is contingent on the choice of Low E Glass (low emissivity), which features a metallic coating that reflects heat. “I would say 99 percent of window companies and contractors have little to no knowledge about how the science of Low E Glass works,” says Harden. For example, “on triple pane windows the Low E coating can be applied to different panes. If coating is applied to outer layers more, it increases the reflection of the sun’s heat or if applied closer to the interior panes, it will increase heating.” Harden says that Low E coating options would depend on the direction and size of the window, as well as whether the goal is summer heat deflection or winter heat gain.

Consumers would also want to consider the makeup of inert gasses between panes of glass. Such gasses reduce transfer of heat and sound travel. Two optional gasses are mainly used – Argon gas and Krypton gas. “Argon is used in the majority of windows due to its lower cost. However, Krypton gas represents the next step up in energy quality. It’s more expensive but heavier than Argon, so it makes for more energy efficient windows and more reduction in sound,” says Harden. “Many contractors advertise that their windows contain Krypton, but lower-priced windows from particular manufacturers will only have a 50 percent Krypton mix with the rest being Argon. Unfortunately, customers are usually never told this.”

While these window options are important, Harden stresses that quality of installation is equally important for achieving optimal energy efficiency. “To ensure air-tight installation, Harden Energy uses only minimal expanding spray foam. This is much better than fiberglass insulation. Spray foam is a highly insulated product, reduces noise tremendously, is very air-tight, and makes windows extremely solid in the wall cavity,” says Harden.

Harden considers the field of installing high-efficiency windows in Greater Cincinnati to be not only a business, but also a science. This is evidenced by his extensive background in green energy efficiency. He completed intensive study and training in building science (the study of heat flows, pressure flows and moisture flows) from the Canadian Government Super Energy Efficiency Program. “Once you understand the physics of how buildings work, then you can adequately determine proper material and installation requirements,” he says. In addition to his building science training, Harden possesses a host of relevant credentials. These include being a certified energy auditor for the R-2000 program in Canada and LEEDS (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) trained.

“Because of my extensive knowledge on building science and energy efficiency issues, I am able to apply this knowledge in a way that gives consumers seeking advanced window products in Greater Cincinnati the most efficient, correct and cost-effective window products and installation,” says Harden.

For more information about Harden Energy products and services, or for a free consultation, contact Les Harden at (859) 640-9376. Or, visit www.hardenenergy.com.


Harden Energy is a Ft. Thomas, Kentucky-based company serving the Greater Cincinnati area and specializing in advanced green energy products and services, particularly high-efficiency windows and doors (residential and commercial). All windows meet new 2014 Energy Star standards, and all triple-pane windows meet the very high R-5 Program Energy Star Standard. Harden Energy offers a lifetime warranty on all windows, including glass breakage. The company also offers partial or complete home weatherization services.