In 1997, the UK Government signed up to the Kyoto agreement to help reduce the effects of global warming by reducing green house gases. A major contributor of green house gases is CO2 which is generated when housing stock is heated. Improving the thermal efficiency of homes by using energy efficient windows, helps to reduce heating and lighting costs and therefore, CO2 output. An added benefit of using energy efficient windows is the increase in useable living space adjacent to fenestrations.
The British Fenestration Rating Council Limited (BFRC) window rating system is a simple and independent method of selecting energy efficient windows.
Windows are rated using a familiar A to G scale on the basis of their total energy efficiency. An "A" rated window is more energy efficient than a G-rated window. Awareness of the system is high due to it's widespread use with items such as white goods and light bulbs.
It is important to remember that a BFRC rating is a simple and effective way to assess the energy performance of the whole window and not just the glass element. It covers the frame material, the frame design, the glass type and all the other components of the window.
Windows that achieve a BRFR Rating of "C" or above are eligible to apply for free membership of the Energy Saving Trust 'Energy Saving Recommended' scheme. This allows use of the widely recognised and respected ESR logo and access to free publicity for energy saving products.
Key points:
- BFRC rating is the best tool to compare window energy efficiency,
- BFRC rating is on a scale of A to G, A's the most energy efficient.
- The BFRC label on the window allows to easily compare windows for energy efficiency,
- Different combinations of frame type, frame material and glazing can generate various results when trying to compare energy efficiency and cost.
- A, B, C rated windows are able to carry the Energy Saving Recommended logo
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