Window Energy Ratings Explained

 

Thermal efficiency has never been more important. Therefore, you need to make sure you get the most of your home improvement investment. In order to do this, it is essential that you can get to grips with Window Energy Ratings. Window Energy Ratings (WER) were created to offer reliable, relevant and easy to understand information.

They measure the total performance of windows rather than the traditional measure of U-value. With the Window Energy Ratings (WER) system, ‘A+’ is the highest and ‘G’ is the lowest performing window for energy efficiency. To summarise this, it is similar to the ratings that you find on domestic appliances such as washing machines. To decide on a WER, the British Fenestration Ratings Council (BFRC) has created a new system. This system checks all the components to ensure the final product reaches the energy efficient standard claimed. This includes:

• Heat loss through the frame material.
• Surface coatings on the glass to reflect or trap energy.
• Air leakage between the moving, opening parts of the window.
• Solar gain it can expect during the year.

Building regulations currently require all new homes in England and Wales to have windows with a minimum ‘C’ WER rating. At Securahome we fit ‘A’ rated windows as standard. All of our windows are rigorously tested to withstand the British climate. This ensures keeping you warm, safe and comfortable in your home all year round, whatever the weather.