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Product

Q: What is SGG EcoClear^®? [back to top]
A: SGG EcoClear^® is a high performance, energy efficient double glazed unit designed specifically to achieve a C BFRC Window Energy Rating or higher and to enable windows to qualify for Energy Saving Recommended status with most frame systems.

The core of the EcoClear range is the new SGG PLANITHERM TOTAL which has an increased solar factor (g-value) of 0.66 while maintaining the same low u-value of 1.2 W/m2.K thus further optimising the balance between free solar heat gain and heat loss. This means that EcoClear is the most cost-efficient solution to achieve an excellent C rated window without the additional expense of low-iron glass.

Q: Why will my customers be interested in EcoClear? [back to top]
A: Windows glazed with EcoClear will help households save thousands of pounds over the lifetime of their windows (see savings table) as well as dramatically cut down on carbon dioxide emissions by minimising energy loss from the home and reducing or eliminating the need for additional heating.

EcoClear also provides outstanding clarity and maximises the transmission of natural daylight into the home, especially compared to old-fashioned thermally insulating glass.

Q: What are the exact make-ups of the EcoClear range of double glazed units? [back to top]
A: The EcoClear range of high performance, energy efficient double glazed units is made up of three solutions each achieving progressively higher Window Energy Ratings:

C rated EcoClear specification:

Outer pane: SGG PLANILUX standard float glass
Cavity: Aluminium spacer bar, argon gas filled cavity
Inner pane: New SGG PLANITHERM TOTAL high performance low-e glass

B rated EcoClear specification:

Outer pane: SGG PLANILUX standard float glass
Cavity: SGG SWISSPACER V warm edge spacer bar, argon gas filled cavity
Inner pane: New SGG PLANITHERM TOTAL high performance low-e glass

A rated EcoClear specification:

Outer pane: SGG DIAMANT low iron, extra-clear glass
Cavity: SGG SWISSPACER V warm edge spacer bar, argon gas filled cavity
Inner pane: New SGG PLANITHERM TOTAL high performance low-e glass

Q: I am a double glazed unit manufacturer; can I manufacture units under the EcoClear brand name? [back to top]
A: If you are interested in manufacturing EcoClear double glazed units, please contact your nearest branch. Click the Where can you buy? link on the right hand side to find your local Solaglas branch. The minimum criterion to manufacture EcoClear is BS EN1279-3 accreditation.

Q: I don't use SGG Swisspacer V warm edge spacer bar, can I use an alternative warm edge spacer bar to manufacture EcoClear double glazed units? [back to top]
A: As part of the Saint-Gobain group, our preferred choice is SGG Swisspacer V as it provides the best performance results for EcoClear. Double glazed units with warm edge spacer bar manufactured under the EcoClear brand must incorporate SGG Swisspacer V. If your current warm edge spacer bar is different you cannot brand them as EcoClear and we cannot confirm the simulation ratings you would get.

Q: Is an argon gas filled cavity mandatory in an EcoClear double glazed unit? [back to top]
A. Yes. At this time, all EcoClear double glazed units must contain an argon gas filled cavity.

Q: What is the warranty period for EcoClear double glazed units? [back to top]
A: The warranty period for EcoClear double glazed units is the same as standard double glazed units from Solaglas.

Q: Is EcoClear suitable for use in commercial applications? [back to top]
A: EcoClear can be used in commercial applications albeit only applications that are domestic in nature such as apartment blocks or retirement homes i.e. applications for which Window Energy Ratings are applicable.

BFRC Window Energy Ratings (WERs)

Q: What is the BFRC? [back to top]
A: The BFRC is the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC), a Government-supported independent body which is now part of the Glass and Glazing Federation, the largest trade association for the glazing and fenestration sector in the UK. The BFRC promote, develop and operate an independent, impartial method of rating the energy efficiency of windows and encourage their use.

Q: What is a Window Energy Rating (WER)? [back to top]
A: The A (best) to G (worst) labelling system is similar to the labelling already used on white goods. The label gives a rating based on the energy performance of a whole window (frame and glass) and therefore allows fair comparison of one window with another.

Q: How does the Window Energy Rating scheme relate to Building Regulations? [back to top]
A: Part L of the Building Regulations for England and Wales (and Part F, Northern Ireland) includes Window Energy Ratings as a method of compliance. The minimum level for replacement domestic windows is currently band E. For windows in new domestic extensions, the minimum requirement is currently band D. However, with the Government’s commitment to significantly reduce carbon emissions, these minimum requirements could be tightened when revisions due to be made to Part L are made in the future.

Q: Who gets a BFRC rating? [back to top]
A: A BFRC Window Energy Rating and label applies to a whole window, frame and glass, therefore it is at the point that these components come together to produce a whole window that the rating and label are obtained. Usually, it would therefore be the window installer’s product which is rated and labelled, although in the case of a factory-glazed window it could be the window manufacturer’s product.

Q: How do I go about obtaining a BFRC rating for my windows? [back to top]
A: You need to follow the simple procedures as set down by the BFRC (www.bfrc.org). In summary:

Internal preparation: determine which complete systems you would like to be rated.
Simulation: contact a simulator who will simulate the performance of your windows based on the specific components (frame and glass) you will use. Solaglas have already simulated certain popular window specifications (see link) which may assist you.
Independent Agency verification: select an Independent Agency such as BM Trada or Buildcheck. The IA will audit the presence and operation of a suitable quality system. An IA also acts as the “customer manager” of the BFRC process and manages the contact with the BFRC during the process.
BFRC registration: the BFRC will register the products and authorises use of the BFRC Window Energy Label.

Q: What are the costs associated with obtaining a BFRC rating for my windows? [back to top]
A: You should contact the BFRC, registered simulators and independent agencies directly for accurate costings.

Q: Is an Energy Index an absolute measure of the energy performance of a specific window? [back to top]
A: No. The actual energy performance for a specific window will depend on many factors such as the size of the window, the location of the window in the building, the building parameters such as insulation and occupancy, the local climate, the indoor temperature set by the occupants etc. The BFRC rating is designed to allow easy comparison between two or more window products hence simulations are completed in order to compare relative window performance under identical conditions.

Q: What is the importance of an A, B and C Window Energy Rating? [back to top]
A: A, B or C rated windows are eligible to be endorsed by the Energy Saving Trust and are able to display the Energy Saving Recommended logo. The Energy Saving Recommended logo has been developed by the Energy Saving Trust to distinguish the most energy efficient products on the market.

Q: What are the benefits for window suppliers of using the Window Energy Rating System? [back to top]
A: As a window manufacturer or installer, having your window systems energy rated will provide an independent means of demonstrating to the consumer how energy efficient your products are. Incorporating EcoClear double glazed units into your window systems will enable you to achieve the highest possible Window Energy Ratings and help you qualify for Energy Saving Recommended status.

Q: Will I achieve a Window Energy Rating for windows incorporating patterned glass, applied leads and bevels, or decorative effects such as Georgian bars? [back to top]
A: Yes. Patterned glass and double glazed units incorporating applied leads and bevels or any type of Georgian or integral bar are excluded from consideration under the Window Energy Rating scheme. They are therefore attributed the same rating as the same window containing none of these components.

Technical

Q: Why is low iron or “extra-clear” glass used in an A rated EcoClear double glazed unit? [back to top]
A: Low iron or “extra-clear” glass (SGG DIAMANT) is used as the outer pane of the double glazed unit in order to maximise the free solar heat gain (solar factor or g-value) of the window and hence allowing a room to benefit from increased heat transmittance.

Q: Why is extra-clear glass more expensive than standard float glass? [back to top]
A: Extra-clear glass can be more expensive than standard float glass due to the additional processes and costs associated with treating the major raw material component. There are also increased furnace costs as well as higher processing costs for this speciality glass.

Q: What is CE Marking and how does it affect Solaglas’s double glazed units? [back to top]
A: CE Marking indicates that a product conforms to a European technical specification called a “harmonised European Norm” (hEN) and has undergone the appropriate conformity assessment procedures. All Solaglas products are CE Marked and as such comply with the essential requirements of applicable European legislation.

Q: Are EcoClear double glazed units effective in timber and aluminium frames as well as uPVC? [back to top]
A: Yes. Timber or aluminium framed windows can achieve A, B and C Window Energy Ratings when glazed with EcoClear double glazed units depending on the window system or material used by a manufacturer / installer.

Q: What is a warm edge spacer bar? [back to top]
A: A warm edge spacer bar is made of composite fibreglass which has a very low level of thermal conductivity allowing it to act as a thermal break thus enabling better thermal performance and virtually eliminating condensation for the inside pane. A warm edge spacer bar also eradicates potential frame mould problems.

Q: What is the role of an argon gas filled cavity in a double glazed unit? [back to top]
A: Argon gas is an inert gas, lighter than air that is used to fill the cavity of EcoClear double glazed units to further improve their thermal performance.

Q: Can I incorporate other glass products such as self-cleaning glass or acoustic glass within an EcoClear double glazed unit? [back to top]
A: Other glass products can be incorporated within an EcoClear double glazed unit and branded as such as long as the overall glazed window achieves a C Window Energy Rating or above. It is worth noting that other glass products such as self-cleaning or acoustic glass are designed for specific functions and may not perform as well as other glass types when trying to achieve the highest Window Energy Rating possible.

Q: Is EcoClear suitable for use in conservatories? [back to top]
A: EcoClear double glazed units are suitable for use in north facing conservatories as they will maximise the free solar heat gain passing through the glass into the conservatory and will also maximise the reflection of the heat inside your conservatory back into the room rather than allowing it to escape. However, for non-north facing conservatories, incorporating solar control products such as SGG CLIMAPLUS 4 SEASONS, into the side walls of a conservatory will prevent too much heat passing through into the room and stop overheating.

Promotion

Q: If I purchase or manufacture EcoClear double glazed units, will I be registered on the website as a supplier? [back to top]
A: Yes. Your details will be entered on our website on placement of your first order and potential consumers will be able to search for suppliers in their area.

Q: When is EcoClear being launched? [back to top]
A: EcoClear is being launched to the market on 1st July 2008 through a series of UK-wide road shows.

Q: What is Solaglas doing to promote EcoClear? [back to top]
A: Solaglas has developed a suite of printed literature aimed at the end consumer including sales brochures containing a DVD, direct mailings and pocket guides. An advertising and public relations campaign has also been developed to coincide with the market launch on 1st July. A dedicated website module is also available for end-consumers and trade customers alike. Promotional items linked with the brand and sample double glazed units will also be available to customers.

Q: How would a consumer know that their windows contain SGG EcoClear®? [back to top]
A: Every SGG EcoClear® double glazed unit has an SGG EcoClear® label applied at the point of manufacture which usually remains until final cleaning.

Consumer Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is SGG EcoClear®?
Q: What do EcoClear double glazed units consist of?
Q: Does the glass coating within an EcoClear double glazed unit affect the overall clarity of the glass?
Q: How does EcoClear work?
Q: Why do I need energy saving windows?
Q: Where can I buy windows glazed with EcoClear?
Q: What is a Window Energy Rating (WER)?
Q: What is the importance of an A, B and C Window Energy Rating?
Q: What is the Energy Saving Trust?
Q: What does the Energy Saving Recommended logo mean?
Q: Are energy saving double glazed units effective in timber and aluminium frames as well as uPVC?
Q: How does the Window Energy Rating scheme relate to Building Regulations?
Q: Is my window guaranteed either a C, B or A Window Energy Rating with EcoClear?
Q: Will I achieve a Window Energy Rating for windows incorporating patterned glass, applied leads and bevels, or decorative effects such as Georgian bars?
Q: Can I eliminate internal condensation on my windows?
Q: What is a warm edge spacer bar?
Q: What is the role of an argon gas filled cavity in a double glazed unit?
Q: How does extra-clear glass differ from standard glass?
Q: Can I incorporate other glass products such as self-cleaning glass or acoustic glass within an EcoClear double glazed unit?
Q: Is EcoClear suitable for use in conservatories?
Q: Are Solaglas double glazed units manufactured to any particular quality standard?
Q: How would a consumer know that their windows contain EcoClear?
Q: What is the period of guarantee on my windows which contain EcoClear?

Q: What is SGG EcoClear^®?[back to top]
A: SGG EcoClear^® is a high performance, energy efficient double glazed unit which enables you to save money on your heating bills as well as reduce carbon emissions. EcoClear double glazed units allow windows to achieve the possible Government backed Window Energy Ratings (WERs) and will qualify for Energy Saving Recommended status with most frame systems.

Q: What do EcoClear double glazed units consist of? [back to top]
A: All EcoClear double glazed units incorporate the new

SGG PLANITHERM TOTAL coated glass technology together with an argon gas filled cavity. The C rated unit also includes aluminium spacer bar and a standard outer pane of standard glass.

Using a warm edge spacer bar achieves a B rating, improved thermal insulation and virtually no condensation.

Using a warm edge spacer bar and replacing the outer pane of standard glass with an extra-clear glass achieves an A rating and greatly increases levels of natural light.

Q: Does the glass coating within an EcoClear double glazed unit affect the overall clarity of the glass? [back to top]
A: No. EcoClear incorporates the new SGG PLANITHERM TOTAL glass coating which is invisible to the naked eye unlike older coating technology used in old-fashioned thermally insulating double glazed units.

Q: How does EcoClear work? [back to top]
A: Windows glazed with EcoClear allow optimal amounts of the sun’s energy to pass through the glass into the room allowing your home to benefit from free solar heat gain.

At the same time, using advanced glass coating technology, EcoClear reflects the heat inside your house back into the room rather than allowing it to escape. Both features reduce or eliminate the need for additional heating.

Q: Why do I need energy saving windows? [back to top]
A: Energy used in the home is responsible for 27% of all carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions with most of this created by heating the home. A crucial factor in reducing these emissions and safeguarding the environment is your choice of glazed window. Energy Saving Recommended windows containing EcoClear will improve the energy efficiency of your home AND save you over £9,000 on your heating bills over a 20 year period based on an average sized semi-detached house*. See our Savings calculator to calculate your potential savings.

Q: Where can I buy windows glazed with EcoClear?

[back to top]
A: Go to the “Suppliers” page of this website to search for a registered supplier of windows glazed with EcoClear. Click here for the link to the Suppliers page.

Q: What is a Window Energy Rating (WER)? [back to top]
A: The A (best) to G (worst) labelling system is similar to the labelling already used on white goods. The label gives a rating based on the energy performance of a whole window (frame and glass) and therefore allows fair comparison of one window with another.

Q: What is the importance of an A, B and C Window Energy Rating? [back to top]
A: A,B or C rated windows are eligible to be endorsed by the Energy Saving Trust and are able to display the Energy Saving Recommended logo.

Q: What is the Energy Saving Trust? [back to top]
A: The Energy Saving Trust is an independent, non-profit making organisation backed by the Government. Its aim is to cut emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), the main greenhouse gas causing climate change, by promoting the sustainable and efficient use of energy.

Windows with a C rating or higher, such as those containing EcoClear, are eligible to be endorsed by the Energy Saving Trust and to use the Energy Saving Recommended logo (subject to approval).

Q: What does the Energy Saving Recommended logo mean? [back to top]
A: Under the Energy Saving Recommended scheme, only the best performing products that meet strict criteria on energy efficiency can carry the logo. This criteria is set by an independent panel and reviewed annually.

Q: Are energy saving double glazed units effective in timber and aluminium frames as well as uPVC? [back to top]
A: Yes. Timber or aluminium framed windows can achieve A, B and C Window Energy Ratings when glazed with EcoClear double glazed units depending on the window system used by a manufacturer / installer.

Q: How does the Window Energy Rating scheme relate to Building Regulations? [back to top]
A: The BFRC’s Window Energy Rating scheme is an alternative method for demonstrating compliance with the UK Building Regulations.

Q: Is my window guaranteed either a C, B or A Window Energy Rating with EcoClear? [back to top]
A: No. A Window Energy Rating (WER) is given for a complete window, frame and glass. EcoClear? is the most technically superior glazing solution available today and windows can achieve either a C, B or A WER with combined with most frame systems.

Official BFRC simulations have been produced in conjunction with the majority of uPVC window profile companies. Click here for the link to the Performance page.

Q: Will I achieve a Window Energy Rating for windows incorporating patterned glass, applied leads and bevels, or decorative effects such as Georgian bars? [back to top]
A: Yes. Patterned glass and double glazed units incorporating applied leads and bevels or any type of decorative bars are excluded from consideration under the Window Energy Rating scheme. They are therefore attributed the same rating as the same window containing none of these components.

Q: Can I eliminate internal condensation on my windows? [back to top]
A: EcoClear double glazing will greatly reduce condensation compared to single glazing or old-fashioned thermally insulating glass. However, by replacing the standard aluminium spacer bar with a warm edge spacer bar increases the glass edge temperature resulting in virtually no internal condensation.

Q: What is a warm edge spacer bar? [back to top]
A: A warm edge spacer bar is made of a composite material which has a very low level of thermal conductivity allowing better thermal performance and virtually eliminating condensation for the inside pane as well as eradicating potential frame mould problems.

Q: What is the role of an argon gas filled cavity in a double glazed unit? [back to top]
A: Argon gas is an inert gas, lighter than air that is used to fill the cavity of EcoClear double glazed units to further improve their thermal performance.

Q: How does extra-clear glass differ from standard glass? [back to top]
A: Extra-clear glass or what is also known as “low-iron” glass, is made from specially treated raw materials that have had their iron content removed. This eliminates the natural green “hue” seen when looking along the edge of standard glass and makes the pane appear clearer. Extra-clear glass maximises the free solar heat gain of a window and incorporating an extra-clear outer pane into an EcoClear double glazed unit, allows a window to achieve an A Window Energy Rating.

Q: Can I incorporate other glass products such as self-cleaning glass or acoustic glass within an EcoClear double glazed unit? [back to top]
A: Other glass products can be incorporated within an EcoClear double glazed unit although their unique properties are designed for specific functions and may not perform as well as other glass types when trying to achieve the highest Window Energy Rating possible.

Q: Is EcoClear suitable for use in conservatories? [back to top]
A: EcoClear double glazed units are suitable for use in north facing conservatories as they will maximise the free solar heat gain passing through the glass into the conservatory and will also maximise the reflection of the heat inside your conservatory back into the room rather than allowing it to escape. However, for non-north facing conservatories, incorporating solar control products such as

SGG CLIMAPLUS 4 SEASONS, into the side walls of your conservatory will prevent too much heat passing through into the room and prevent overheating.

Q: Are Solaglas double glazed units manufactured to any particular quality standard? [back to top]
A: Yes. All EcoClear double glazed units are manufactured to the highest British and European quality standards (BS EN 1279-3) and these details are clearly printed on the spacer bar within the unit cavity.

Q: How would a consumer know that their windows contain EcoClear? [back to top]
A: Every EcoClear double glazed unit has an EcoClear label applied at the point of manufacture which usually remains until final cleaning.

Q: What is the period of warranty on my windows containing EcoClear? [back to top]
A: The period of warranty is determined by your window installation company.

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