If you have found your home is feeling cold in general and are wondering about it’s energy efficiency, we are here to help.
A domestic EPC is a great way to understand your property and is a helpful guide on how to improve it’s energy efficiency, especially if it’s an older property.
Here is some advice on how to calculate energy efficiency, as well as the benefits of an EPC, and when it is best to get one.
1. Using a Home Energy Calculator
A quick and easy way to calculate the energy efficiency of your home is by using an online calculator. Home Energy Checkers can give an intial indication of whether your home is likely in need of improvements for energy efficiency purposes. However, there are many calculators out there and you need to be careful to use the right ones.
Firstly, be sure that the calculator you’re using is an independent one. Many energy assessors include calculators on their websites that are designed to bring in new business. Rather than using one which is trying to sell you their services, we suggest using a website that isn’t trying to get you to part with your money, such as the Energy Check on the Energy Saving Trust’s website.
The information you get from an energy calculator should be seen as a rough guide, not a comprehensive assessment. Also you may not know the answers to some of the questions, e.g. if you have solid walls or cavity walls, and if you enter incorrect information into the calculator it will result in you receiving the wrong advice.
Also bear in mind these energy calculators can only give very general advice which isn’t tailored to your building so may miss some important factors.
2. Getting a Domestic EPC Assessment
Getting a domestic EPC assessment carried out by a professional is a lot more accurate than using a Home Energy Calculator, as it will be tailored specifically for your building, and will be carried out by experienced assessors who can pick up on things that calculators will miss.
All factors will be taken into account, such as the impact a chimney can have on heat loss, and the assessors can also spot small things, like if the seals on your double glazing are worn out and need to be replaced.
An EPC assessment is the best way to get an accurate and tailored report on your home’s energy efficiency, which will be tailored to your property.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the energy efficiency of a home calculated in the UK?
Home energy efficiency in the UK is calculated using the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP), which is used to produce an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). This method assesses factors such as insulation levels, heating systems, hot water efficiency, lighting, and building fabric to produce an overall energy efficiency rating from A to G.
What factors are included in an EPC calculation?
An EPC calculation includes several key factors such as wall, roof, and floor insulation, glazing quality, boiler or heating system efficiency, fuel type, ventilation, and lighting. Each element is assessed to estimate how much energy the property uses and how much CO₂ it produces.
Can homeowners calculate their own EPC rating?
Homeowners can estimate their EPC rating using online tools, but only an accredited Domestic Energy Assessor can produce an official EPC. The official assessment involves a detailed survey of the property and must be lodged on the national EPC register to be valid.
Why is insulation important in energy efficiency calculations?
Insulation plays a major role because it directly affects how much heat a property retains. Poor insulation increases heat loss, leading to higher energy consumption for heating. Better insulation reduces energy demand and improves both the EPC score and overall running costs.
How can improving energy efficiency reduce household costs?
Improving energy efficiency reduces the amount of energy needed to heat and power a home. Measures such as upgrading insulation, improving heating systems, and using energy-efficient lighting all lower consumption, which leads to reduced energy bills over time.