Energy efficient windows

Energy efficient windows are windows that help you conserve heat within your home and build up all the free 'natural' energy to heat your home. They can be made using a number of different frame materials or even a combination of aluminium, PVC-U, steel or timber.

Who needs to consider getting more energy efficient windows?

People who have single-glazed windows or had their double glazing installed prior to April 2002. If you switch to energy efficient windows you could save as much as £461* a year.

* In an electrically heated house taken from DTI Quarterly Energy Prices, December 2007.

How much carbon will you save with energy efficient windows?

If you live in a single-glazed property and install energy efficient windows, you could save 0.3 tonnes of carbon which equates to 18%. The government has set a target for each household to save 20% of carbon per household so installing more efficient windows has a massive impact on this target.

How are windows deemed energy efficient?

Energy efficiency scale The British Fenestration Rating Council (BRFC) is the UK's national system for judging the efficiency of a window. The ratings scheme is voluntary but you'll probably recognise the scale as it's really similar to the scale you see on most household appliances:

The best thing to do is look for the BFRC label on your windows and ask to see your installer's energy efficient window stock.

How much do they cost?

The cost varies depending on what grade you go for on the scale (it ranges from A to E) but the frame's material will also have an impact on cost. The thing to remember is that the initial costs will be made up and more over the long term with the savings you make through your reduced heating bills.

Source: British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC)