Things are about to change when it comes to buying a new boiler.
You may have already heard of the Energy Related Product (ERP) Directive which kicks into place on the 26 th September 2015 and will introduce new standards to the energy industry.
Many of my customers have been asking what it will mean for them when they purchase a new boiler, so I’ve decided to write this blog post to clarify some of the changes that will come into place in a couple of months’ time.
What ERP actually means
Firstly, let me reassure you it’s nothing to worry about – the ERP directive is a good thing . It’s being put in place to help the EU achieve its main target of reducing energy consumption by 20%, while at the same time increasing renewable energy by 20% in 2020.
All space and water heaters must meet the new requirements, and boiler manufacturers are already updating their products so they are ready in time for September.
For you, it means that when you next purchase a new boiler, it will be much easier to tell the difference in energy efficiency between various models.
It also means that your installer will be legally required to provide a label for every appliance they install, so you’ll be able to tell which products are rated the highest in terms of energy efficiency, and which are rated the lowest.
These labels will also include information such as noise, emission levels and power consumption.
The new labelling system
The new labels will be clearly marked with coloured bars; from green (the most efficient) all the way down to red (least efficient). Energy ratings can start as low as a G-rating, rising all the way to A++++.
However, the label your installer applies must also reflect any extra components or controls which are installed along with a product, as these can also impact its energy efficiency.
So, for instance, if you had a new boiler which came straight out the factory as an A-rated appliance, and you were to then fit a programmable room thermostat, your new boiler would then be rated A+ by your installer.
If you also added an outside weather compensating control to that same boiler, it would then be rated A++ by your installer.
Advice for homeowners
If you’re thinking of getting a boiler in the next couple of months, it’s a good idea to discuss the new ERP directive with your chosen installer.
Ensure they are aware and up-to-speed about ERP, and ask them if you will receive the mandatory certificate at the end of the job – if they say ‘no’, look elsewhere.
Any installers that are not compliant with the new ERP directive after September 26 th will be breaking regulations.
Conclusion
If you’ve been thinking of getting a new boiler, but are worried about the new ERP directive set to kick in on September 26 th – don’t panic. The new regulations are a good thing, and will just mean that it’ll be easier to tell which boilers are the most energy efficient – just like the labels you currently see on fridgefreezers in shops.
Your installer will be required to accurately label your new boiler to reflect any extra components or controls that are installed – for instance, an A-rated boiler could become an A++ boiler if fitted with a programmable room thermostat and outside weather compensating controls.
Just be sure to check that you will receive the mandatory certificate at the end of the installation – any installer not doing this after September 26 th will be breaking regulations.
Will you be buying a new boiler after September 26th?
