How to improve your home's EPC rating

There are plenty of short-term and long-term methods to improve your home's rating. But first, what is an EPC rating and why is it important for homeowners? It is simply the rating given to your household to reflect its overall energy efficiency. This rating is measured from band A, which is the most energy efficient, down to band G, which is the least energy efficient. Once issued, the certificate is valid for ten years.

Knowing your home’s EPC rating helps you understand exactly how much energy you use. The average EPC rating for homes in the UK is currently band D. If you are wondering how to check the EPC rating of your home, you can find this information quickly on the official government register.

An EPC rating measures your property's energy efficiency on a scale from band A to band G.
Simple updates like fitting LED bulbs, insulating your water tank, and using a smart meter will quickly improve your score.
Investing in double glazing, loft insulation, and renewable energy provides the best long-term return for your rating.

DIY home improvements to boost energy performance certificate

Light bulbs

If you want simple DIY home improvements to boost energy performance certificate scores, start with your lighting. Check the light bulbs you are using around the home and consider replacing old incandescent light bulbs with LED bulbs, as this is a cost-effective way to help increase energy efficiency.

LED bulbs come in a variety of brilliant designs. They provide up to 50,000 hours of light and are much brighter than halogen bulbs. Overall, an LED bulb is the best route to go down as you use less power and get far more usage out of them. If you are budgeting carefully, replace your most frequently used bulbs with LEDs first.

You can find out more using our guide on how to change a light fitting if you think this may be affecting your EPC rating, or if LED bulbs are limited by your current lighting infrastructure.

Water tank insulation

You can also add insulation to your hot water tank. Purchasing an insulating jacket to place over your water tank is a brilliant way to improve energy efficiency. They are relatively cheap, priced at roughly £20, but the financial benefits become substantial after several years.

Smart meters

Finally, we recommend you get a smart meter. These handy devices provide a clearer picture of how much energy your home actually uses. You can use the data to make immediate changes to the way you use your energy.

Which home energy efficiency upgrades offer the best return on investment for EPC?

When planning larger projects, you might find yourself asking which home energy efficiency upgrades offer the best return on investment for EPC. Taking on these projects helps you enjoy the long-term benefits of achieving a higher EPC rating. Your home stays warmer and you save money on your heating bills.

Double glazing windows

If you do not already have double glazing and are prepared to spend a bit more, now is the time to invest. To get double glazing installed, you are looking at roughly £150 per window. You see almost instant results, as you gain an additional 10 points to your property's overall score.

Double glazing is always a very effective choice for keeping your home warm. There is also the option of triple glazing, which will provide you with the best possible score bonus and energy efficiency, but don’t worry too much, as double glazing is still a very effective choice.

Loft insulation

As heat rises, insulating your loft space is an incredibly effective way to improve your home's energy efficiency. It traps heat more effectively, meaning you may not need to use the central heating as frequently. The best part is you can install it yourself to keep costs down. It is a relatively simple task if you have the correct materials and guidance.

Do solar panels significantly improve a home's EPC rating?

Yes, generating your own renewable energy through solar panels is a highly effective way to increase your score.

You might also compare an air source heat pump versus a gas boiler for EPC rating improvement. Moving to an air source heat pump improves energy efficiency and reduces reliance on standard fossil fuels.

We know these are larger investments, so it is a great idea to investigate government grants and schemes for energy efficiency upgrades in the UK. Financial support may help you manage the initial costs - upgrading your home may also help you meet the required EPC rating for warm home discount schemes

Home improvements as big as solar panels and air source heat pumps can sometimes feel daunting, but taking it one step at a time makes a huge difference.