Energy efficiency is invisible, always has been, always will be. 

So if you can’t see the performance of your windows and doors why would you take the time to think about it? But the truth is, energy efficiency and noise reduction has never been more important. A new generation, who are rightly aware of their carbon footprint, are becoming homeowners for the first time.

BFRC (British Fenestration Ratings Council) is the UK’s most trusted ratings council, with the most widely used rating system for energy performance in window and doors. Our instantly recognisable rainbow ratings, like the ones you see on fridges and freezers, can now help you prove the energy performance of your windows and doors.

The government have announced ambitious plans to reach a net-zero emissions target by 2050 and energy efficient windows and doors can have a major impact on the carbon footprint of your household whilst saving you money on your energy bills at the same time.

This is why here at BFRC we’ve been working harder than ever to ensure our energy ratings labels on windows and doors have become an essential part of any conversation you have when looking to replace them. Giving you peace of mind that you’re having an A rated (or better!) product installed becomes invaluable, reassuring and money saving.

It’s a conversation that should be encouraged and we would always recommend you ask about a product’s energy ratings and acoustic performance when speaking to an installation company. Of course it’s tempting to shop around for the lowest price, but if you can see the scientific proof behind why a product is so highly rated alongside the alternatives then it becomes a simple decision. When you factor in the long term benefits the product has on the environment, let alone the savings on your energy bills, it’s a win win scenario.

Top Tip

Windows and doors with an energy rating of 0 or higher (A to A++) are considered to be energy positive. Current building regulations require that all newly installed windows must meet the requirements of a C rating. However, only when a window is ‘A rated’ or higher does it become energy neutral. Anything less than an ‘A’ and the window will still lose more heat than it lets in from the outside, meaning your energy bills will be higher.

To understand more about how BFRC energy ratings labels work you can watch our video here. Alternatively, the homeowner page on the BFRC website will provide you with all the information you need.

BFRC – Proven Performance