How to Improve Your EPC Rating
The most effective improvements to boost your property's energy efficiency, reduce bills, and increase value. Most homeowners can improve by 1-3 bands.
At a Glance: Cost vs. Savings
| Improvement | Cost | Annual Savings | Payback | Rating Boost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solar Panels | 5,000 - 8,000 GBP | 300 - 500 GBP | 8-12 years | 1-2 bands |
| Loft Insulation | 300 - 500 GBP | 200 - 300 GBP | 1-2 years | 1-2 bands |
| Wall Insulation | 500 - 1,500 GBP (cavity) or 5,000 - 14,000 GBP (solid wall) | 200 - 450 GBP | 3-5 years (cavity) or 10-15 years (solid wall) | 1-3 bands |
| Double or Triple Glazing | 3,000 - 7,000 GBP (full house) | 100 - 200 GBP | 10-20 years | 1 band |
| Boiler Upgrade | 2,000 - 4,000 GBP (gas boiler) or 7,000 - 15,000 GBP (heat pump before grant) | 200 - 400 GBP | 5-8 years (gas) or 8-12 years (heat pump) | 1-2 bands |
| Smart Heating Controls | 150 - 300 GBP | 75 - 150 GBP | 1-2 years | 0-1 band |
Solar Panels
Solar PV panels generate free electricity from sunlight. A typical 4kW system generates around 3,400 kWh per year, covering about 40% of an average household's electricity use. Through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), you earn money for excess electricity exported to the grid.
Typical Cost
5,000 - 8,000 GBP
Annual Savings
300 - 500 GBP
Payback Period
8-12 years
Rating Boost
1-2 bands
Key Points
- South-facing roofs generate the most electricity
- MCS certification is required for SEG payments
- Battery storage (add 2,000-4,000 GBP) lets you use more of your own electricity
- Planning permission is usually not required for domestic installations
Get Free Solar Panel Quotes
Solar panels can generate free electricity and earn you money through the Smart Export Guarantee. Get up to 3 free quotes from MCS-certified installers.
Typical savings: 300-500 GBP/year
Get Free QuotesLoft Insulation
Loft insulation is one of the cheapest and most effective energy improvements. The recommended depth is 270mm of mineral wool. If you have less than 100mm, topping up is a no-brainer. Around 25% of heat is lost through an uninsulated roof.
Typical Cost
300 - 500 GBP
Annual Savings
200 - 300 GBP
Payback Period
1-2 years
Rating Boost
1-2 bands
Key Points
- DIY-friendly if your loft is accessible
- Check if you qualify for free insulation under ECO4
- Ensure adequate ventilation is maintained
- Top up existing insulation if it is less than 270mm deep
Compare Insulation Quotes
Proper insulation is the most cost-effective way to cut energy bills. Compare quotes from local approved installers.
Typical savings: 200-400 GBP/year
Compare QuotesWall Insulation
About 35% of heat is lost through uninsulated walls. Cavity wall insulation fills the gap between inner and outer walls. Solid wall insulation (internal or external) is more expensive but effective for older properties without cavities.
Typical Cost
500 - 1,500 GBP (cavity) or 5,000 - 14,000 GBP (solid wall)
Annual Savings
200 - 450 GBP
Payback Period
3-5 years (cavity) or 10-15 years (solid wall)
Rating Boost
1-3 bands
Key Points
- Cavity wall insulation is quick (2-3 hours) and cost-effective
- Solid wall insulation has higher upfront cost but bigger savings
- External cladding can also improve your property's appearance
- ECO4 grants may cover part or all of the cost
Compare Insulation Quotes
Proper insulation is the most cost-effective way to cut energy bills. Compare quotes from local approved installers.
Typical savings: 200-400 GBP/year
Compare QuotesDouble or Triple Glazing
Replacing single-glazed windows with double glazing can save around 10% on heating bills. Triple glazing offers even better performance. A-rated windows are the most efficient option available. Modern windows also reduce noise and condensation.
Typical Cost
3,000 - 7,000 GBP (full house)
Annual Savings
100 - 200 GBP
Payback Period
10-20 years
Rating Boost
1 band
Key Points
- A-rated windows offer the best energy performance
- Consider secondary glazing for listed buildings
- FENSA-registered installers can self-certify Building Regulations compliance
- Some local authorities offer grants for window upgrades
Compare Energy Deals
Make sure you're on the best energy tariff. Compare deals from all major suppliers in minutes.
Average savings: 200+ GBP/year by switching
Compare DealsBoiler Upgrade
If your boiler is more than 10-15 years old, a modern condensing boiler can be up to 30% more efficient. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme provides up to 7,500 GBP towards an air source heat pump or 5,000 GBP towards a ground source heat pump as an alternative.
Typical Cost
2,000 - 4,000 GBP (gas boiler) or 7,000 - 15,000 GBP (heat pump before grant)
Annual Savings
200 - 400 GBP
Payback Period
5-8 years (gas) or 8-12 years (heat pump)
Rating Boost
1-2 bands
Key Points
- A-rated condensing boilers are 90%+ efficient
- Heat pumps are eligible for 5,000-7,500 GBP government grants
- Smart thermostats add further savings of 75-150 GBP per year
- Powerflush your radiators when replacing the boiler
Compare Boiler Prices
A new A-rated boiler can cut your heating bills by up to 30%. Compare fixed-price quotes including installation.
Typical savings: 200-350 GBP/year
Compare PricesSmart Heating Controls
Smart thermostats learn your schedule and only heat your home when needed. Combined with thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs), you can control temperature room by room. This is one of the lowest-cost improvements with a quick payback.
Typical Cost
150 - 300 GBP
Annual Savings
75 - 150 GBP
Payback Period
1-2 years
Rating Boost
0-1 band
Key Points
- Nest, Hive, and Tado are popular smart thermostat brands
- TRVs let you turn off heating in unused rooms
- Most smart thermostats can be self-installed
- Geofencing features automatically adjust heating when you leave
Compare Energy Deals
Make sure you're on the best energy tariff. Compare deals from all major suppliers in minutes.
Average savings: 200+ GBP/year by switching
Compare DealsNot Sure Where to Start?
Look up your property's EPC to see personalised recommendations based on your home's current features.
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