Window films now come with star ratings to indicate their performance, thanks to their inclusion in the Window Energy Rating Scheme (WERS).
Window films now come with star ratings to indicate their performance, thanks to their inclusion in the Window Energy Rating Scheme (WERS). Window films are retroactively fitted to the glass of existing windows, blocking up to 80% total solar energy, 99% UV radiation and 90% glare for solar control window films. Under the WERS For Film system, homeowners will now be able to compare the energy efficiencies of different types of window films.
Tracey Gramlick, Executive Director of the Australian Window Association, which owns and manages WERS, said that it used to be extremely difficult to compare the efficiencies of different window films. “As each film manufacturer has their own way of reporting performance claims, it used to be near impossible to compare one brand to another,” said Ms Gramlick. “Now you can use WERS ratings to evaluate one product and its potential impact on your home, and then compare it to another.”
Participating window film manufacturers will have their products applied to window glass by an independent laboratory accredited by the Australian Fenestration Ratings Council. The finished window with the film applied will then receive a star rating for heating and cooling. The more stars it receives, the greater the energy benefits of the product.
Michael Miller, President of the Window Film Association of Australia and New Zealand (WFAANZ), said that WERS For Film will revolutionise the way people purchase window film. “Consumers don’t have to take the manufacturers’ word for it anymore. With WERS ratings you can compare apples to apples, so to speak,” said Mr Miller.
In 2010, the Building Energy Disclosure Bill was passed by federal parliament, which made it compulsory for sellers and lessors of large commercial spaces to disclose an updated energy rating when selling or leasing their properties.
“WFAANZ anticipates that eventually, government mandate will require all new buildings to have an energy rating. Using a WERS rated film and having a WERS certificate will improve your energy rating, which by default will increase the value of your home and make it more appealing to prospective buyers,” said Mr Miller.
He suggested that consumers who wished to know more about solar control window film should contact a WFAANZ installer for more information.
Further information is also available on the WERS site’s WERS For Film page.
