Energy Efficiency
With rising energy costs, fuel costs and living costs, the last thing you want to do is throw valuable money out of the window.
But that is exactly what you could be doing if your windows aren’t energy efficient. Significant advancements have been made in recent years to ensure the windows you install in your home retain heat and reduce the amount of energy you use. With visible benefits for both the environment and your pocket, it’s clearn to see why energy efficient windows are important, so how do you choose the best ones for you?
Window Energy Rates
Launched in March 2004, the Window Energy Rating lable is similar to that used on many white goods in our homes, such as fridges and washing machines. Windows are scored on a scale of A-G, with an A rated building product being more energy efficient than one which is G rated. This allows individuals to quickly and easily choose the windows most suitable to their needs.
In an ideal world, A rated windows would be installed in each home in the UK. However, recognising that a balance needs to made between the availability and cost-effectiveness of such products, those which are given a rating of C and higher are recognised as energy efficients, and can officially be endorsed with the Energy Saving Recomended logo.
When choosing energy efficient windows here are a few points to consider;
- Minimum C rated under the BFRC (British Fenestration Rating Council) Windows Energy Rating guidelines.
- Energy Saving Recommended logo.
- Reputable fabricators.
- Expertise in Design.
What does this mean for the environment?
The Window Energy Rating Scheme, governed by an independant body, allows you to make a fully informed choice about the windows you choose for your home. From an environmental perspective, the windows you choose can reduce your household CO2 emissions by over 100cm each year, helping you significantly lower your carbon footprint. Not only does this have a positive effect on the world outside, but also for the environment inside your house. The advancements in building product technology increase the amount of useable living space by eliminating drafts and colt spots.
What does this mean for your pocket?
Energy Efficient windows may cost more initially, but will improve comfort and save both energy and money. During the lifetime of your energy efficient windows, the cost of heating could outweigh the purchase cost by thousands of pounds. With up to 20% of a homes heat being lost through inefficient windows and doors the savings you make could add up to more than £150 oer year.
Take into consideration the increased use of space in your home and reduced lighting costs, and the benefits of choosing energy efficient window becomes clear to see. Simply changing your standard windows and doors to those which are energy efficient will have a lasting and positive effect for the lifetime of your home. It’s a small step which we all can take to ensure a better life now and in the future.