Understanding Energy Efficiency: A Guide to BFRC Ratings for Homeowners
Introduction
As climate change continues to be a pressing concern, homeowners are increasingly looking for ways to make their homes more energy efficient. One important aspect of home energy efficiency is the quality of your windows. Energy efficient windows can significantly reduce your energy bills & contribute to a more sustainable future. To help you make informed decisions, this article will explain how homeowners can understand the energy efficiency of their windows using BFRC (British Fenestration Rating Council) ratings.
What is BFRC?
The British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) is an independent organisation that provides energy performance ratings for windows & doors in the UK. These ratings are designed to help homeowners make informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their window & doors. The ratings confirm that products have been independently verified by experts in building physics. You can see how windows & doors look but not how they will perform, the BFRC rainbow ratings is a user friendly way to see the performance of the windows & doors.
BFRC ratings are based on various factors that affect a window’s thermal performance, such as heat loss, solar gain, & air leakage.
Understanding BFRC Ratings
U-Value
The U-value, often referred to as the U-factor, is a critical component of BFRC ratings. It measures the rate at which heat is transferred through a window. Lower U-values indicate better insulation properties, meaning less heat will escape your home during the cold months. Look for windows with low U-values to maximize energy efficiency.
G-Value
The G-value, also known as the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), measures how much solar heat is gained through a window. While high G-values are desirable in colder climates to harness solar heat, in the UK’s temperate climate, it’s essential to strike a balance. If you have a south facing set of bi-fold doors then you may prefer to chose a product with a lower G value
G Factor
The L factor or effective air leakage is the rate of uncontrolled air leakage, or how draughty they are. Air Leakage can occur where the glass units meet the uPVC & where the window sash meets the window frame.
The rating is a comprehensive score, ranging from A++ (most efficient) to E (least efficient). This rating considers various factors like U-value, G-value, air leakage, & the overall energy efficiency of the window. An A++ rated window will be highly energy efficient, helping you save on heating & cooling cost
Energy Labels
BFRC labels are similar to the energy labels found on appliances, providing an easy-to-understand summary of a window’s performance. These labels display the U-value, G-value, & other relevant information, allowing you to quickly compare different windows’ energy efficiency.
How to Use BFRC Ratings
Consult the Label
When shopping for new windows, always ask about the BFRC rating on the product. This label will provide you with a clear indication of the window’s energy efficiency & its suitability for your specific needs.
Assess Your Location
Consider your location & the orientation of your home when choosing windows. In South Wales and the South West of England the mild & wet climate means we don’t need to prioritise windows with low U Values as we don’t tend to suffer from harsh winters. Although, those with south facing windows may want windows with a higher G-value to maximize natural light & heat gain.
Seek Professional Guidance
Consult with a professional window installer who can help you choose windows that align with your energy efficiency goals, climate, & budget. They can provide valuable insights & help you select the most suitable options.
Conclusion
Understanding the energy efficiency of your windows is essential for reducing energy consumption, lowering utility bills, & reducing your carbon footprint. By using BFRC ratings as a guide, homeowners can make informed decisions when purchasing windows. Investing in energy efficient windows not only enhances comfort but also contributes to a more sustainable & eco-friendly home.
At Pendragon Home Improvements we recommend Planitherm double glazing, which has 3 options Energy Standard, Comfort & Comfort Plus. These have been designed to offer varying benefits depending upon where in your home the windows & doors are located. Call or drop us an email to understand how Pendragon Home Improvements can help you improve the energy efficiency of your home.
If you are looking for Advice about chosing your replacement uPVC or aluminium windows or doors then check out the rest of our Advice Centre which is packed full of handy information
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