If you’ve looked at a Building Energy Rating recently, you may have noticed something different.
The domestic BER rating system in Ireland has been updated, with the scale now running from A0 to G.
So what does that actually mean for homeowners?
What Is a BER Rating?
A BER, or Building Energy Rating, indicates the energy performance of a home.
It is calculated using a standardised assessment methodology that considers the characteristics of the dwelling, including its construction, insulation, heating, hot water and other energy-related features.
The rating ranges from A0, representing the highest level of energy performance, through to G.
A more energy-efficient property will generally achieve a rating closer to the A end of the scale, while a property with poorer calculated energy performance will be further down the scale.
What Is A0?
A0 is the highest rating on the current domestic BER scale.
It represents a very high level of energy performance and is associated with highly efficient homes with very low calculated energy use.
Not every modern home will automatically achieve an A0 rating. The final BER depends on the actual characteristics and systems of the dwelling and the information used in the assessment.
What About A, B, C, D, E, F and G?
The remaining ratings indicate progressively lower calculated energy performance.
However, your BER should not be viewed simply as a letter.
The assessment also provides information about the property’s calculated energy performance and carbon emissions.
This is important because two homes with the same BER rating can still have very different construction, heating and energy systems.
The rating gives you a standardised way to compare the energy performance of buildings.
What Determines Your BER Rating?
Several factors can influence the result, including:
- Insulation in walls, roofs and floors
- Windows and doors
- Heating systems and controls
- Hot water systems
- Ventilation
- Renewable energy systems
- The construction characteristics of the property
This is why you shouldn’t assume that the age or appearance of a house tells you what its BER will be.
Has the BER System Changed?
Yes.
The current domestic BER system introduced the A0 rating at the top of the scale.
If you have an older BER certificate, don’t assume that every detail will correspond directly with a newer certificate. BER methodology and technical requirements can be updated over time.
If you’re unsure about an existing BER or you’re planning improvements to your property, it is worth getting advice based on the current requirements.
Does a Higher BER Guarantee Lower Bills?
Not necessarily.
Your BER is based on a standardised assessment, while your actual energy consumption depends on how the property is occupied and used.
For example, two houses with the same BER could have different energy bills because the occupants use their heating, hot water and appliances differently.
Think of your BER as an indication of the energy performance of the building, rather than a prediction of your exact household bills.
Can You Improve Your BER Rating?
In many cases, yes.
Potential improvements could include:
- Upgrading insulation
- Improving windows and doors
- Upgrading heating systems
- Improving heating controls
- Improving hot water systems
- Installing appropriate renewable technologies
But don’t start spending money simply because you want a better letter.
The most useful improvements depend on the individual property.
A proper assessment can help you understand where improvements may have the greatest value.
What Does This Mean for Homeowners?
The updated rating system gives homeowners a clearer way to understand the energy performance of their property.
If you’re:
- Selling your home
- Renting out a property
- Buying a house
- Planning renovations
- Considering a heat pump
- Looking at energy upgrades
your BER can provide useful information about the property’s current energy performance.
The important thing is to look beyond the letter and understand what is influencing the rating and what can realistically be improved.
Need Help With Your BER?
Homecert provides BER assessments, energy consultancy and technical services across Ireland, based in Co. Mayo.
If you want to understand your property’s current energy performance, you can start with an instant quote.