The label pictured to the right is an energy efficient window rating label.

The energy efficient window labelling scheme was created by the BRFC (the British Fenestration Rating Council). It’s aim is to rate the energy efficiency of windows in the same way as household appliances are now energy rated.

As with household appliances, the most energy efficient windows are rated A to C.

A to C rated windows also carry the Energy Saving Recommended logo which is issued by the Energy Saving Trust.

To find out more about the scheme, read on, or visit their website.

 

What Does the Energy Efficient Window Ratings Label Tell You?

Each window rated by the BFRC has a unique label which contains the following information:

1. The rating level - A, B, C and so on
2. The energy index
3. The thermal transmittance
4. The solar factor
5. The air leakage

In plain English, each of these factors will determine how well the window will perform in terms of:

- Helping you contain and conserve heat within your building in the winter

- Keep out the wind

- Resist condensation

- Contribute to improved sound insulation

 

Does the Energy Efficiency Rating Apply to the Glass or the Window?

The scheme rates the whole window (i.e. including the frame and any casement) not simply the glass.

 

How Much Money Can I Save?

By installing energy efficient windows a typical homeowner could see their household energy bills reduced by as much as £461 per year*. Of course the amount you save will depend on the size of your home, and the size and condition of your current windows.

 

How Much Carbon Can I Save?

Energy efficient windows can assist you in reducing your carbon footprint by up to 18% - so it’s a worthwhile change both from a financial and environmental perspective!

 

How Do I Know if the Windows I’m Buying are Energy Efficient?

Firstly, be sure to check that the company providing and installing your windows is registered with the BFRC - you can easily check this by clicking on this link: http://www.bfrc.org/Consumer/search_companies.aspx

Additionally, when speaking to your chosen supplier / installer, ask them about their BFRC rated products - if their windows carry the energy efficient label, then you can rest assured that you are getting an energy efficient window.

 

How Much do Energy Efficient Windows Cost?

The cost of energy efficient windows depends on a variety of factors including the frame materials used (i.e. timber, aluminium, PVCU), and the sizr and style of the window.

Additionally, the higher the energy efficiency (i.e. the more energy efficient a given window is) the more it costs - so an ‘A’ rated window will cost more than a ‘C’ rated window; but this cost can be off-set by the savings you will make on your energy bills. 

 

SEHBAC & Energy Efficient Windows

Here at SEHBAC we understand the importance of energy efficiency when considering replacement windows. As such all of our windows are energy rated. We’re also very happy to talk you through the various options and their associated costs.

View our full double glazing range, or call us on 0800 666 444 to discuss your needs, we’re here to help you.

 

*in an electrically heated house, taken from DTI Quarterly Energy Prices. December 2007. Calculation provided by the BFRC.

Tags: BFRC, Double Glazing, Energy Efficiency, Energy Efficient Window Ratings, Energy Saving, Solar Gain, Windows

This entry was posted on Tuesday, March 31st, 2009 at 4:16 pm and is filed under Carbon Footprint, Double Glazing, Saving Money. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.