Tips on How to get a good Building Energy Rating (BER)
BER grading goes from A to G with some grades further subdivided (e.g. A1, A2, A3). The impact of the BER grade is not yet known but it is expected to have a significant impact on the price that can be achieved when either selling or renting the property. It may therefore be worth your while to consider some ways of improving your BER grade; here are a few suggestions.
Low Energy Lighting
One of the easiest and most cost effective ways to improve your BER is to increase the number of light fittings classed as low energy light fittings. This can be as simple as putting CFLs (Compact Fluorescent Lamps) in your existing standard light socket. Halogen downlighters can be replaced with LED lamps but you will need to check with your electrician to ensure your system is wired to accept LED lamps.
Solar Water Heating
The addition of solar water heating can have a dramatic impact on your BER and it is one of the best value alternative energy sources available.
Windows
If you are building new or considering upgrading your windows then you should ensure that the windows are at least double glazed with 16mm gap filled with Argon. They should also have a low emissivity coating which reduced the amount of heat loss through windows. Triple glazed windows might also be an option but be aware that the extra pane of glass will reduce heat loss it also reduced the amount of solar gain. The spacer bars between panes should ideally be a thermoplastic material rather than metal.
Heating System Efficiency
The efficiency of the space and water heating system regardless of fuel type is one of the major factors involved in determining the BER grade. Efficiencies above 90% can be achieved with some systems, be careful however, as only independently certified efficiencies can be used and not figures from the manufacturers technical literature.
Heating Control Systems
The way heating systems are controlled contributes to the overall efficiency of your heating system and impacts BER grade. A system which does not enable thermostats to turn off the boiler when the hot water or space reaches the required temperature will suffer from boiler cycling which is wasteful of heating fuel.
New House Design
For a new build there are a multitude of factors which can be tailored to enable a good BER grade to be achieved. The house can be designed to maximise solar gain, minimise heat losses, and incorporate efficient heating and control technology as well as the appropriate use of renewable energy sources. It is best to consult with your BER Assessor as soon as possible in the project so that the optimum rating can be achieved.
