Energy Ratings Explained for your Windows
26th May 2021 - By Jason Clemmit
Energy Ratings Explained for your Windows
The efficiency of your windows plays a huge part in the overall temperature of your property and replacing your old ones for more insulated models is a great way to save money on your energy bills and make your home more efficient. But how energy efficient are replacement windows?
When replacing windows, it is important to get ones which are energy efficient to help you save money and improve the warmth of your home.
Windows have to meet certain building regulations which measure safety and insulation. Insulation can be measured with a U-value calculation or a Window Energy Rating (WER), rated from A++ to G with A++ being the highest.
What are Window Energy Ratings?
Window Energy Ratings began to help homeowners choose the best window products for their home, by comparing the energy efficiency of different window products.
Current building regulations mean that replacement windows must be rated to a minimum of C or have a U-value of 1.6 W/m2K or lower. A replacement window means that both the frame and glass are replaced at the same time.
U-Values are more accurate as it relates to the rate of heat flow, but WERs take into account U-Values, solar heat gain and air leakage to provide an easily understandable system for consumers. Also, U-values are completely different in all parts of the window including frame, glass and spacer bar so WERs take all of these into account to produce a single rating.
Certass’ Thermal Rating Register
In 2002, building regulations were changed to incorporate thermal performance for replacement windows, which led to the introduction of Window Energy Ratings, and now thousands of installers and products are registered with a WER scheme, helping you choose the most energy efficient windows for your home.
Our Thermal Rating Register was created to provide an easily recognisable tool that measures the Window Energy Ratings, by rating the efficiency and thermal performance using a traffic light style system from A-G, similar to the one found on white goods such as fridges and washing machines.
The higher the rating, the more thermally efficient the windows, helping homeowners choose the right option to save money on bills and reduce carbon footprint.
Each window that uses the Thermal Rating Register is given a label whichg shows the energy rating level, making it easy to compare the most energy efficient windows for your property. These labels can be found with the paperwork that accompanies the windows, and can also be viewed online.
Why Certass Members are Part of the Thermal Rating Register Scheme
While your windows need to achieve efficiency through high energy ratings, they also need to be installed correctly to ensure they are performing properly.
Windows which are installed poorly contribute to heat loss, cold spots and draughts in a property, meaning that correct installation of these products is crucial to ensure optimum insulation and heat retention.
The Thermal Rating Register Scheme shows that your windows achieve required efficiency levels, and the installation is compliant with the necessary regulations.
Choosing a Certass Certified Window Installer means that you’ll get windows which achieve fantastic thermal efficiency to meet building regulations as well as a top-quality installation by a certified tradesperson.
Finding a Certified Installer that can Install your Energy Efficient Windows
Our online directory makes it easy to find a certified window installer in your area. All you need to do is insert your postcode and it will show you the closest installers to you.
Check out our webpage to find out more about how the Thermal Ratings Register works.