The energy efficiency within a home is a vital element when it comes to renting or selling your home. Understanding how much it is going to cost to heat a home is a large consideration for those buying or renting. The use of an EPC rating is vital to this process. At Greener homes we are specialist heating engineers with a focus on energy efficiency and boiler installations. In this article we look at what is an EPC rating.
So,What Is An EPC Rating?
Let’s start off by answering the question that is posed at the start of this article. An EPC rating is a review of a property’s energy efficiency. They are used by potential buyers and renters of homes. They are only valid for 10 years. An EPC will give a rough idea to how much it is going to cost in relation to energy bills into their property.
Your house’s EPC rating will depend on two factors. The amount of energy used per meter squared and also the level of carbon dioxide emissions. Anyone can access a house’s EPC online for free, so they do come in handy when it comes to comparing potential house moves or rental opportunities. It is therefore the responsibility of the seller or landlord to provide this information.
Why Does an EPC Rating Mean?
When a home is built, sold or rented in the UK it always comes with an EPC or Energy Performance Certificate. This certificate will show any new buyers how much it will cost to heat and light a home, what its carbon dioxide emissions are as well as what improvements you can make to benefit energy efficiency. This is very important for new homeowners who may be considering some renovations. EPC rating bands range from A which is most efficient to G which is least efficient.
The Importance Of A High EPC Rating
Other than a listed building each home needs to have an EPC before it can be rented or sold. Having a high EPC rating therefore can help to persuade buyers to purchase your home instead of others. Naturally people will make the comparison as a low EPC rating could mean more money being needed to heat and light the home.
The bonus with an EPC certificate and rating however is that it does suggest ways to increase the rating itself. This is particularly useful if you are buying a home to renovate it, or going to rent a home and want to invest some money into it. As of April 2018 all landlords in England were required to have an EPC rating of E or better. An EPC is also a crucial part of claiming Renewable Heat Incentive or RHI for short.
How Can I Improve My EPC Rating?
When it comes to improving your EPC rating there a number of things that you can consider and also do. A better EPC rating can have many benefits as well as improving the value of your home if you are looking to sell. Some of the things you can consider include the following:-
Double Glazing
Effective double glazing allows you to keep heat within your home and also ensure that there are limited amounts of drafts. Therefore increasing your homes ability to retain heat but also reduce noise as well.
Insulation (Wall & Loft)
Insulation is one of the most cost effective ways to ensure heat is kept within your home. Some homes also can apply for loans and grants dependent on various factors which can help them get it for free or at a cheaper rate.
Replace Your Boiler
This is the main area where Greener Homes can add value. By having a new boiler installed you can guarantee a higher level of efficiency especially if your home is older. A replacement boiler will keep heating costs lower, repair costs lower and also heat your home quicker.
Look At A Secondary Heating Source
Secondary heating sources are becoming more and more popular. Wood burning stoves tend to be the best and also most cost effective option especially if you already have an open fireplace and chimney installed. This is also a very green way to heat your home.
To Conclude
So to answer the question of what is an EPC rating it is a very essential part of your home. It can help you as a buyer, or buyers of your home to understand how energy efficient your home is. Having a high EPC rating is very beneficial and should mean that your heating bills are a lot less. At Greener Homes we are experienced in the areas of ensuring that your homes are running as efficiently as possible. For more information on our services, then please do Contact Us.