How a New Boiler Can Boost Your EPC Rating (And Why It Matters)

When it comes to improving your home’s energy efficiency, few upgrades offer as much impact for the investment as a new boiler. While many people think about boilers simply in terms of heating and hot water, the truth is, installing a new, efficient boiler can significantly boost your property’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating and that matters more than you might realise.

In this article, we'll break down how a new boiler affects your EPC rating, why your EPC rating is so important, and what benefits you could enjoy by making this smart upgrade.

What is an EPC Rating?

An EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) measures how energy-efficient a building is.
Ratings go from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). The certificate also includes advice on how to improve your score.

EPCs are required when selling, renting, or building a property in the UK. They are valid for 10 years and are visible to potential buyers or tenants, making them a key factor in a property's appeal and value.

How Boilers Influence Your EPC Score

Your boiler plays a crucial role in your home’s overall energy efficiency because it directly affects:

• Heating Efficiency: The amount of energy needed to warm up your home.

• Hot Water Usage: Efficiency in providing water heating without wasting energy.

• Carbon Emissions: Newer boilers produce fewer emissions compared to older models.

If your home has an old, non-condensing boiler (especially those over 15 years old), it’s likely dragging your EPC rating down. New condensing boilers — especially A-rated ones operate at efficiencies of 90% or higher, compared to as low as 60-65% for older models.

Simply put:
?? New boiler = less energy waste = better EPC score.

How Much Can a New Boiler Improve Your EPC?

While exact improvements depend on other factors (like insulation, double glazing, and property type), replacing an old G-rated boiler with a new A-rated boiler could boost your EPC by 5–15 points.

For example:

• A property rated E could easily climb to D or even C with a boiler upgrade combined with minor insulation measures.

• Since many mortgage lenders, landlords, and buyers now favour properties with a C rating or above, this improvement is more important than ever.

Why Boosting Your EPC Rating Matters

You might be thinking, "Okay, better EPC score but why should I care?"
Here's why it’s a smart move:

1. Lower Energy Bills

Energy-efficient boilers use less fuel to produce the same amount of heat. That means lower gas or electricity bills month after month.
A more efficient boiler could save you between £300–£500 per year on your heating costs, depending on your property and usage.

2. Increased Property Value

Homes with better EPC ratings are more attractive to buyers.
According to several housing studies, a higher EPC rating could increase a property's value by up to 14% a massive boost if you're planning to sell.

3. Compliance with Rental Laws

If you’re a landlord, EPC ratings aren't optional. Since 2020, rental properties in England and Wales must have a minimum EPC rating of E or higher.
New government proposals suggest this could soon rise to C for all new tenancies.
Upgrading your boiler now ensures you stay compliant and competitive in the rental market.

4. Access to Grants and Incentives

In some cases, properties with low EPC scores may qualify for government grants to help cover the cost of improvements like a boiler upgrade.
Examples include:

• The ECO4 scheme (Energy Company Obligation)

• The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS)

Installing an A-rated boiler could even qualify you for additional funding for insulation or other upgrades.

5. Reduced Carbon Footprint

Climate change is everyone’s concern.
Upgrading your boiler dramatically cuts down your home’s carbon emissions, contributing to the UK's goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.
You’re not just helping your wallet you’re helping the planet.

What to Look for in a New Boiler

Not all boilers are created equal. If you're serious about boosting your EPC rating, here’s what you should look for:

• A-Rated Boiler: Check the ErP (Energy-related Products Directive) label.

• Condensing Technology: Recycles exhaust gases for extra heat and efficiency.

• Correct Size: Oversized boilers waste energy. Get a proper heat-load calculation.

• Trusted Brands: Choose reliable manufacturers with proven performance records.

• Professional Installation: Poor installation can negate efficiency gains. Always use a certified engineer.

Other Tips to Maximise Your EPC Improvement

While a new boiler alone will help, combining it with other small upgrades can supercharge your EPC leap:

• Loft Insulation: One of the cheapest and most effective measures.

• Wall Insulation: Cavity wall insulation makes a big difference.

• Double Glazing: Reduces heat loss through windows.

• Smart Heating Controls: Thermostats and TRVs (thermostatic radiator valves) can optimise heating use.

• Draught-Proofing: Sealing gaps around doors and windows can also enhance your score.

When bundled together, these measures can create a warm, efficient, and much more valuable property.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading to a new boiler is more than just an investment in your home’s comfort it's a direct, measurable way to improve your EPC rating, reduce your energy bills, and increase the value of your property.

In a world where energy efficiency is becoming a top priority for governments, buyers, and renters alike, having a high EPC rating isn’t just a "nice-to-have" it’s becoming essential.
And often, a new boiler is the smartest first step on that journey.

If your boiler is more than 10–15 years old, now might be the perfect time to upgrade and reap the rewards.