Energy saving demonstrated
Research by the Passivhaus Institute proves the positive impact of warm edge spacer bars have on a building’s energy efficiency.
The Passivhaus Institute in Darmstadt looked at the impact of both aluminium and warm edge spacer bars and the overall energy requirements of buildings in different climates.
It found that using warm edge spacer bars instead of aluminium in a triple glazed window saves homeowners an average of 8.6% on energy bills in cool/moderate climates such as the UK and Ireland. That’s the equivalent of 180kg less CO2 per household every year.
Homeowners living in colder climates can expect to save around 7%. Warm edge spacer bars bring health benefits as they prevent the build-up of condensation at the edge of the glass. The research concludes that the amount saved by homeowners on energy bills significantly outweighs the slightly higher costs of manufacturing warm edge spacer bars.
Jan Hiersemenzel, Swisspacer’s marketing director for Europe, said: “The Passivhaus Institute is the leading authority on low energy buildings, setting the standard for the most energy efficient homes, offices, schools and public buildings.
“Swisspacer Ultimate was the first warm edge spacer bar to gain Passivhaus accreditation and is widely specified in low energy installations. The Passivhaus database of certified components lists Swisspacer in 70% of windows, 86% of windows with fixed glazing and 97% of curtain wall systems.”