Energy Efficient Replacement Windows:
The Key Facts
Why Do We Need Energy Efficient Windows?
While the windows we choose for our homes can bring lots of benefits such as light and protection from the elements, poorly selected windows often result in a major source of heat loss, impact levels of comfort and reduce effective living space.
Energy efficient windows, however, when correctly selected and installed, will go a long way to addressing these issues and, to that end, replacement windows and doors also have a vital role to play.
In the past though, selecting energy efficient windows has often been difficult for consumers and it quickly became clear that there was a need for a method of categorising them in a way that’s both easy to understand and totally independent.
The British Fenestration Rating Council Limited, (BFRC) window rating system was established to meet this need and allows consumers to quickly and easily compare the energy efficiency of different products.
Who are the BFRC?
The BFRC is an independent body that controls the energy rating of windows as part of a European scheme. The BFRC rating system allow consumers to select energy efficient windows with a minimum of effort. To compare BFRC rated windows, simply look at the label (see above) and compare the ratings.
How does Window Energy Rating work?
All the necessary information contained within the label is based on the EU Energy Label for domestic appliances. This provides consumers with a familiar label that they understand and carries information which is useful and consistent.
Understanding the information on the label:
- The complete window is assessed to produce a single number to rate its overall energy efficiency
- The window energy rating is based on a scale of A to G where an A-rated window is more energy efficient than a G-rated window
- The two digit window energy rating is measured in units of kWh/ m² / year, the result of which determines where the window will sit on the descending A-G energy scale.
- Different combinations of frame style, frame material and glazing can yield different results when comparing energy efficiency and cost but all of these factors can be compared using the rating system
Energy Rating and the Consumer
Ultimately, the energy performance label can goes a long way to helping you decide how well a product will contain and conserve heat within your home or business in the winter, keep it cool in summer, keep out the wind and resist condensation.
The best way to compare windows for energy efficiency is to use the BFRC rating. Simply look for the BFRC label on windows and in literature to easily compare windows for energy efficiency. By choosing the window with the highest rating for the best energy efficiency and lowest heating costs.
If you want to know more about window energy rating and how it helps to save energy, save money and reduce impact on the environment, please contact Brackenwood for more information.