Product certification - Windows & Doors Scheme (SD1)

BFRC Window Energy Rating Scheme (SD1/1)

Introduction
Build Check Certification is approved as an Independent Agency for the BFRC (British Fenestration Ratings Council). Our BFRC Window Energy Rating Scheme allows manufacturers to use the energy rating label on their products.

Conventional approaches (such as setting a glass or window U-value) simply assess how much energy a window loses. They do not take into account how much energy a window can gain.

The total energy flow in a window consists of three major components:

• Thermal transmittance (U-value): This measures how well a product prevents heat escaping. The lower the number the better the U-value. Obtained via testing or simulation.




• Solar factor (g-value): This measures how well a product blocks heat caused by sunlight. Solar heat gain is expressed as a number between 0 and 1. A lower figure means less heat gain. Obtained via calculation based on EN 410.




• Air Leakage (L50): This measures how much air leaks into or out of the window when it is closed. The test evidence must come from a UKAS accredited body.

The British Fenestration Ratings Council (BFRC) has devised a Window Rating equation based on values for these components. The rating is expressed as a number. The rating is converted into a grade between A and G (with A being the most energy efficient).

Benefits of achieving a BFRC Rating

• Improved specification opportunities




• Improved promotional opportunities




• Improved confidence




• Improved Company Image




• Easier to prove the performance of your products

Because:

• Improved energy efficiency can be linked to reduced heating bills and environmental benefits when selling your products.


• It is recognised by the public as the same scale is used to rate the energy performance of domestic appliances such as fridges, washing machines, light bulbs etc.


• Ratings will be particularly advantageous for re-fits because it will be immediately obvious how good the window is.


• Window performance can be used for Standard Assessment Programme (SAP) for whole house energy assessment.

Stages of joining
For windows to become BFRC certified and receive a rating, the following must be in place:

1. Evidence of thermal performance - simulation from a BFRC certified simulator e.g. Build Check or hot box testing at an UKAS accredited laboratory.


2. A quality management system/factory production control system.


3. Verification by an Independent Agency (IA) e.g. Build Check Certification who will by annual inspection visits, validate the simulation and/or test evidence and check the quality management system.


4. The IA will then (with the manufacturer's permission) inform the BFRC of successful completion of the verification process and the BFRC will list the company on their website and allow use of the BFRC Window Energy Rating Label on certified products.

Build Check Windows & Doors Scheme:
Membership requirements of joining the BFRC Window Energy Rating Scheme (SD1/1)

For further information about Build Check Certification please contact us.