Many will have tried to put last winter’s energy crisis out of their minds. However, the autumn and winter season is fast approaching and as a property owner and landlord, it pays to pay attention to this subject. Energy services provider Uswitch have recently released some interesting data on home and boiler energy efficiency which we thought we would share.
It has been known for some time that the age of a property and whether it is detached, mid-terrace, or otherwise, can all have an impact on how hard a boiler needs to work, and ultimately how heat-efficient the household is.
end-terrace and mid-terraced homes are the most energy efficient modern properties.
To discover which property type and age had the greatest impact on a boiler’s efficiency, Uswitch analysed Energy Performance Certificates across Great Britain. Using the EPC ratings for the energy efficiency of the hot water system and the main heating system, properties were given a final boiler score, and compared based on their age and type. The findings make interesting reading.
- Homes built from 2003-2006 and 2007-2011 are the most cost-effective to heat.
- Over half a million households benefit from the most efficient heating in the country, with properties built from 2003-2011 scoring 8.46/10.
- Homes built from 2003-2006 scored evenly for both heating and hot water efficiency, with 8.46/10 whilst 2007-2011 homes are the most efficient for hot water generation (9.23/10), but only the third most efficient for heating (7.69/10).
- Despite being the most modern homes analysed, properties built after 2012 are only the fifth most efficient based on a combined final boiler score of 5.39/10.
- Post-2012 properties account for the least EPCs, with just 93,918 properties.
- These modern homes are the most heating efficient, with a score of 9.23/10, however, they are the second least hot water efficient, scoring just 1.54/10.
- Homes built between 1900 and 1929, have an overall boiler efficiency score of 6.16. In fact, the oldest homes analysed, those built pre-1900, rank higher than properties built between 1950 to 1982, and 1991 to 1995.
- Boilers in detached properties have the lowest overall boiler score, scoring just 1.43/10 on average, based on 1.43 scores for heating and hot water efficiency. This is 7.14 points less than old style enclosed mid-terrace houses, which score highest (8.57/10).
- Enclosed end-terrace and enclosed mid-terraced houses are the properties most conducive to boiler efficiency, scoring 7.14 and 8.57, respectively. These homes are also referred to as ‘back-to-back’ buildings, so have fewer external walls than other properties, the rate of heat loss is lower. There construction is now prohibited.
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In conclusion, end-terrace and mid-terraced homes are the most energy efficient modern properties. With over six million properties, both age brackets have a final boiler efficiency score of 5.00.
However, no matter your home’s age or format, there are steps you can take to maximise your boiler’s potential and Uswitch suggest the following:
– Schedule a boiler check-up: Ensure that you regularly have your boiler checked over by an accredited engineer. An engineer will be able to check everything is running smoothly and address any worries you have around its efficiency.
– Bleed your radiators: To further improve the efficiency of your boiler, take the time to bleed your radiators. This eliminates any air pockets in the system, and reduces the pressure so you don’t have to turn the heating up as much.
– Invest in insulation: Having suitable insulation means a greater upfront cost but will likely save you money in the long run as the boiler has to operate for less time to achieve the same temperature.
– Choose the right boiler: Having a boiler that is compatible with the type of property you live in will also improve the overall heating efficiency of your home. To choose the right boiler, consider the size of your property, the number of residents, available fuel, and your existing system.
At Lifeboat Lettings we will always help and advise landlords and assist where we can.
If you would like some help with any of the subjects covered above or anything else relating to properties or lettings, please email contact@lifeboatlettings.com.
