subject: What Does the Label on Your Double Glazed Windows Mean? [print this page] What Does the Label on Your Double Glazed Windows Mean?
Most manufacturers of double glazed windows in the UK attach a label to their product. This serves as a sales tool for them and a quick source of information for consumers - a win-win situation in fact. The data and grading seen on the label may be confusing to some though and they may end up investing in the wrong windows or a quality that is different than what they are expecting.
What does the label mean and how should you read it?
Label Basics
Created and monitored by the BFRC, these labels are not only recognized by the building regulations, they are also used to gauge which replacements windows will be given the Energy Savings Trust Recommended logo. These two distinctions combine to make the BFRC label a trusted, reliable and necessary brand to watch for on your new double glazed windows.
What Is Displayed?
Look for a bunch of different information to show up on the label, including:
. A letter grade from A to G, with the first letter being the highest, most energy efficient grade
. An energy rating based on the number of kilowatt hours lost through the window per square metre over each year
. The U value of the window (remember that this must be at least 1.6 in England, Scotland and Wales and at least 2.0 in Northern Ireland)
. The L rating that covers the effective rate of heat loss from air leakage in the windows
. The total solar heat gain of the product
You'll also see which climate it has been rated for (this should say the UK) as well as displaying the original manufacturer and model number along the top.
What Is Rated?
The BFRC labels do more than look at the double glazing, this rating system looks at the whole window system, including the casements and window frame.
When you see a positive rating on an A-level window you can be assured that this particular style of window will actually help to provide heat at no charge. The positive number means that there is no heat loss through the window, simply a case of the sun shining in and creating a warmer environment inside your home.
The Importance of Reading the Labels
You can ignore the label, but purchasing double glazed windows that meet or exceed the minimum standards as laid out in the building regulations is necessary. With this handy label displayed prominently you can compare products and make the choice for your home, family and lifestyle.
