What are Window Energy Ratings?
Window Energy Rating is a method of assessing the total energy performance of a window. A window energy rating will not only measure the total energy loss, as a U-value does, but also the energy gain and the air flow through the window. The BFRC Window Energy Rating is calculated using the BFRC Rating equation which gives the numerical BFRC Rating (generally a negative number) that can be converted to an A-G band. Why undertake Window Energy Ratings? With the recent hike in the cost of domestic gas and electricity, consumers are demanding more energy efficient products.
Achieving an energy rating allows the consumer to assess your product on the money it could save them in energy bills, just as much as the cost, finish and style. Without an energy rating, potential customers will assume that your product has a poor energy efficiency. Having an energy rating is also a good marketing tool, bringing environmentally minded customers to you that may have gone to your competitors in the past.
Once we have received an application for Energy Ratings from you, we will arrange for one of our experienced consultants to visit you to assess that your company fulfils all of the requirements of the BFRC Scheme. During this visit you will also be offered advice on the design of the window and components to ensure you maximise the results. Once our simulator has all the required information, he will undertake the simulation and advise you of the results. To register this energy rating, an Independent Assessor will then visit your factory to check on the production process of this particular window and check the simulation process before signing off the result. Your company can then send this energy rating to BFRC for registration.
Why Undertake Energy Ratings with the BWF?
The BWF and its service providers have built up an understanding of what makes an energy efficient window through training, completing simulations and years of experience in the timber window industry. When you commit to undertaking energy ratings with the BWF we will visit you prior to starting the simulations to offer you advise on how to get the best possible ratings for your window. During this visit we will also check that you have the appropriate test evidence for your window and the drawings cover sufficient detail. We will also manage the assessment process with a registered Approved Inspector and ensure the energy rating is submitted to BRFC.
Click here for further information, costings, and an application form.
