An EPC rating refers to a building’s energy efficiency as introduced in the UK in 2007. The rating runs from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient).
In Britain, there are some of the coldest and oldest houses in Europe, and the cost implications from the buildings’ heat loss lead to rising fuel poverty. However, there are ways to improve your EPC rating as described below.
Replace An Old Boiler
Your EPC rating is based on the energy cost supplying the heating system. Since heating represents 55% of energy cost, the EPC rating and improvements to bills, and significant saving should be made on it. In that case, you can consider replacing an old boiler with a new one with smart heating technologies, and this will improve your rating.
If you decide to retain your old boiler, incorporate smart heating controls such as a Boiler Programmer and a Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs). This will ameliorate your EPC rating, albeit more expensive to install.
Insulation
Loft insulation will deter heat loss. Its installation is easier, and it is one of the ways to improve your EPC rating cheaply. The recommended depth of your rock wool should be at least 270 mm. If your loft is less thick, you can get it filled or topped up to the recommended depth.
Wall insulation will lead to retention of considerable heat. For buildings with cavity walls, the small gaps between the double external walls can be filled with insulation. However, solid walls can also be insulated to improve the EPC rating, but it will cost more; it will cut your heating bills in the long run.
Install Double-Glazed Windows
Older windows can result in a significant heat loss in your home. Therefore, replace windows for double glazing to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Although they are high-performance windows, their impact on the EPC will be less than from the wall or loft insulation.
Lighting
LED bulbs can be used instead of halogen bulbs. The phasing out of halogen bulbs across Europe began in 2018. LED spotlights have a working life of 20-30 years compared to halogen bulbs’ two years. This will also lead to less cost; for example, replacing ten halogen bulbs with LED bulbs can save you £112 annually in the long run.
Invest In Renewable Energy
One of the best ways to improve your EPC rating is investing in renewable energy sources. Renewable energy sources include solar panels, ground-source heat pumps, and biomass boilers. It will also save you a significant amount of money; for example, for a semi-detached house, installing solar panels will result in saving £311 annually.
It will provide a long-term solution although its initial expenditure will be more. However, the government often incentivise it hence improving the EPC rating and maintenance costs. Renewable energy sources have environmental benefits too.
Conclusion
These ways to improve your EPC rating will further improve your house’s value and reduce the running costs. It will also lead to a warmer, comfortable and saleable home. Most important is the incorporation of modern technologies including renewable and smart heating technologies that will have impacts on your rating and heating bills.