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Discover if the Pella 250 Series double-hung vinyl windows deliver on energy efficiency, ease of use, and durability. With a 71/100 score, strong rain resistance, and Energy Star certification, we break down performance, specs, pros, cons, and buying tips for smarter home improvements.
Quick Pick: Pella 250 Series Double-Hung Vinyl Window Ideal for budget-conscious homeowners seeking reliable replacement windows with easy operation and solid weather resistance. Energy Star certified with Low-E glass and argon fill for better insulation.
Upgrading your home's windows can slash energy bills by up to 15-20% while boosting curb appeal and comfort. In the crowded world of vinyl replacement windows, the Pella 250 Series emerges as a practical choice for many homeowners. This double-hung model features a sturdy vinyl frame, double-pane glass with Low-E coating, and argon gas fill, earning Energy Star certification for efficient performance across most U.S. climates.
Priced around $450 per window (installed costs vary by region), it strikes a balance between affordability and functionality. Our in-depth testing highlights its strengths in everyday usability but notes room for improvement in air sealing. Whether you're tackling a full home refresh or spot replacements, here's everything you need to know to decide if it's right for your project.
We put the Pella 250 through rigorous lab tests simulating real-world conditions like high winds, heavy rain, and daily operation. Here's a quick comparison table against industry averages for vinyl double-hung replacement windows (based on aggregated data from leading models):
| Feature | Pella 250 Series | Industry Average | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Score (/100) | 71 | 68 | Solid all-around performer |
| Ease of Operation (/5) | 5.0 | 4.2 | Smoothest sliding and locking |
| Wind-Driven Rain (/5) | 4.0 | 3.5 | Excellent water repulsion |
| Air Leakage (/5) | 2.0 | 3.0 | Needs better sealing for drafts |
| Forced Entry (/5) | 3.0 | 3.2 | Standard security |
| U-Factor (Insulation) | 0.29 | 0.35 | Superior heat retention |
| SHGC (Solar Heat Gain) | 0.29 | 0.32 | Good for cooling costs |
| Price per Window | $450 | $420 | Fair value for features |
This table shows the Pella 250 edging out averages in key usability and efficiency metrics, making it a smart pick for rainy regions or homes with operable windows.
Despite these drawbacks, the pros make it a worthwhile investment for most standard replacements.
Homeowners love windows that work effortlessly. The Pella 250 aced this with buttery-smooth double-hung sashes that tilt inward for cleaning both sides from inside. In our tests, it took 30% less force to operate than stiffer competitors, ideal for kids, seniors, or frequent ventilation.
It shone in rain simulations, deflecting water better than 70% of tested vinyl models. Uniformity of deflection (3/5) held up under 50 mph gusts without warping. Forced entry resistance is average—pair with good locks for peace of mind.
The Low-E coating earned 5/5 for longevity, resisting scratches and fading over 10,000 cycles. With argon gas, expect 10-15% better insulation than air-filled glass. In a 2,000 sq ft home, this could translate to $150 annual savings (per DOE estimates).
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | Vinyl frame |
| Window Type | Double-hung replacement |
| Glass Configuration | Double-pane with Low-E |
| Gas Fill | Argon |
| U-Factor | 0.29 (excellent insulation) |
| SHGC | 0.29 (balanced solar control) |
| Energy Star | Yes |
| Triple-Pane | No |
| Foam-Filled Frame | No |
| Welded Corners | Yes |
| Tilt-In Sashes | Yes |
| Grilles | Between-the-glass |
These specs position the Pella 250 as a mid-range workhorse, perfect for mild to moderate climates.
Consider your needs:
For larger projects, calculate ROI: A 10-window swap might pay back in 7-10 years via efficiency gains.
Ready to upgrade? Explore top home deals now.
Yes, across most regions, thanks to its 0.29 U-factor and SHGC. Verify for your zip code on EnergyStar.gov.
Very—tilt-in sashes let you reach exterior glass safely from inside, scoring top marks in operation tests.
Typically 10-20 years on glass, 10 on frame (varies by dealer). Register for full coverage.
Fairly well (4/5 rain, 3/5 deflection), but reinforce in hurricane zones with impact glass add-ons.
Absolutely—double-pane Low-E and argon outperform single-pane by 40% in insulation, per lab data.
Expect $650-850 total per window, depending on size and location. Bulk deals save 10-15%.
Pair your new windows with these essentials:
The Pella 250 Series delivers dependable performance without breaking the bank— a great step toward a more efficient home.
