Shopping for replacement windows is a daunting task with a big price tag to match.

Faced with a dazzling array of window technology, materials and companies, the homeowner has lots of decisions to make.

“Your choice of window will greatly affect your home's appearance, inside and out,” says Richard Roll, president of American Homeowners Association. “But consider the energy factor: Windows account for 10-25 percent of your heating bill. That's hundreds of dollars in potential savings every year.”

Here's a list of trouble-saving tips to enhance your window shopping experience:

Check the warranty, especially the fine print. Look for a 20-year warranty on glass and a 10-year warranty on parts. Make sure that it's transferable in the event you sell your home, and non-prorated.

Buy energy-efficient windows. The National Fenestration Rating Council label will provide a rating of the product's energy performance. The U-Factor rates how efficiently the window prevents heat from escaping, while the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient tells you the window's ability to prevent solar heat from entering the house.

Consider Low-E coating. Low-E glass is a transparent, metallic coating designed to prevent energy transfer. Low-E windows can be extremely energy efficient, much more than standard dual-pane glass windows.

Maximize natural light in the home. Nothing beats sunshine for brightening your home and your mood.

Go for low maintenance. Clad wood windows offer the unusual combination of good looks and low maintenance. Aluminum- or vinyl-clad wood has a natural wood finish and can be painted to change its appearance.

Remember how windows enhance design. Windows come in all shapes and sizes to complement your home's existing architecture or your planned remodeling project. Arches, triangles and ovals can stand alone or in combination with standard windows.

Incorporate accessories. Grills or mullions give the impression of dividing large surfaces into smaller, separate panes. They offer a geometric design element to your window's appearance, without blocking natural light.

For information on any aspect of buying, improving or selling a home, go to http://www.ahahome.com, the web site for American Homeowners Association.