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Energy Rated Windows: The future of double glazed windows

'Energy rated windows' or 'energy efficient windows' work in a similar way to Home Information Packs. The BFRC Scheme is the UK's national system for rating the energy efficiency of windows and is recognised within Building Regulations as best practice for replacement windows installation.

Window Energy Ratings use an straight forward traffic-light style system (A-E ratings) similar to that used on 'white' goods such as fridges and HIPs packs for homes. This energy rating can be used to help you make the right choice about the energy efficiency of the windows you are looking to buy.

So Why Energy Efficient Windows?

Everyone is becoming increasingly aware of the environment and its fragile state. Fighting carbon emissions is an important part of this and with the current cost of fossil fuels being so high, we are all looking for ways to make our homes more energy efficient.

Each window rated by the BFRC has a unique label.

 

 

How Do Energy Rated Windows Work?

Each window is assigned a energy performance label with the following information.

  1. The rating level - A, B, C, etc...
  2. The energy rating eg. -3kWh/(m2·K) in this example the product will lose 3 kilowatt hours per square metre per year.
  3. The window U value eg. 1.4W/(m2·K)
  4. The effective heat loss due to air penetration as L eg. 0.01 W/(m2·K)
  5. The solar heat gain eg. g=0.43

 

So What Does the Energy Label Mean?

Put simply, the window energy rating ensures five things:

  • Your windows will contain and maintain the heat within your home.
  • Your windows will prevent wind and cold air seeping through.
  • Your windows will resist condensation.
  • Your windows will improved sound insulation.
  • Your windows will save you money on your heating bill.

 

So What are Energy Efficient Windows - Use Solar Gain to Benefit the Home

So exactly what are Energy Efficient Windows? They are windows that help to contain and conserve heat within the home keeping out wind and rain, resisting condensation and yet allowing natural 'free' energy - the warmth of the sun - to heat the home. They can be made using any frame material - aluminium, PVC-U, steel or timber or even a combination of materials.

Energy Efficient Windows are easy to recognise - simply look for the BFRC Label.