The trial involved careful checks of energy consumption on the selected fridge cabinets before and after the application of the film. After the film was applied we disconnected the glass heater on the test doors and observed them over a period of several weeks. Windowgard BV was one of the companies involved in this trial. They supplied and fitted the material which has a 3 year warranty excepting fair wear and tear. The trials showed a clear reduction in energy consumed with little or no observable difference in the appearance of the glass doors on the freezer cabinets. We did experience a particularly high humidity level of 100%RH during the trial and the treated doors did start to show a lot of condensation during this time.

Humidity levels in Ireland can be surprisingly high from time to time and are regularly several percent higher than the UK and parts of Europe. The problem is often localised to certain parts of the country and certain times of the year. However extensive research showed that this problem disappeared once the humidity levels dropped lower than about 75% RH. The solution was simple we incorporated a humidity sensor on the cabinets in at risk stores which re activated the glass heater for the short periods of time when high humidity would be present. The product has a 3 year warranty and Payback was less than this so product paid for itself well in side warranty.After the trials we embarked on a programme to fit the product in about 50 stores. Windowgard BV carried out the work for us in about 22 stores. The follow up disconnection of door heaters was carried out one week after film application by Cool controls. This delay is necessary to ensure any moisture trapped in the application of the film has been removed. We found Windowgard BV to be an excellent company to deal with and they carried out the installation works efficiently with the minimum of fuss and a high degree of professionalism.

We are happy to recommend the product to anyone else with the provision that due regard is taken of our comments about humidity.

Michael McNerney C Eng FCIBSE
Energy Manager
Property Services Department
Tesco Ireland