Australians have been endeavouring to become more energy efficient in their homes and this is evident in a recent report by the Australian Bureau of Statistics Use of renewable energy in Australian homes 2006-07.

Increased costs of living and increased energy bills have played a significant role in people becoming more environmentally aware.

According to the Australian Government Living Greener website, windows can let in or leak away up to 40 per cent of your home heating or cooling energy. Choosing a Windows Energy Rating Scheme (WERS) rated window can reduce this loss by up to 80 per cent.

Furthermore, choosing double glazed glass, timber or insulated window frames can achieve a high WERS rating.

Other benefits of WERS rated windows include:
  • adds to property resale value
  • comfort and amenity are improved by the use of high-performance windows
  • reduced reliance on air-conditioning and other artificial cooling systems
  • reduce energy bills
Architectural Window Systems (AWS) have a number of products within their Elevate™ Aluminium Systems range which are designed to help you achieve excellent energy efficiency in your building project.

Series 804 is a thermally broken aluminium CentreGLAZE™ window framing system that incorporates AWS' ThermalHEART™ technology. It features reinforced tall glazing bead at sill tolerates high negative wind loads. Series 804 is designed to be installed in residential applications (brick veneer or cavity brick walls) using AWS' custom nailing fin head, jambs and nailing fin sub-sill.

Similarly, Series 806 and Series 826 thermally broken aluminium CentreGLAZE™ window framing system delivers excellent thermal performance and is ideal for tall commercial frames where minimising heat or cold transfer is desired. 

Double glazing can help to improve the thermal performance of a window or door and may provide some benefit in reducing noise. The Elevate™ Aluminium Systems range have been specifically designed to accept double glazing.

According to AWS, windows should be selected based on location, climate and orientation. The WERS website provides guidelines on how to select window options for cold, mixed or hot climate zones.