Improving your home’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating doesn’t always require expensive upgrades or major renovation work. In fact, many homeowners and landlords are surprised by how many small, simple, low-cost actions can deliver immediate improvements to their EPC score.

Whether you’re preparing for a sale, meeting rental regulations, or simply reducing energy bills, these EPC “quick wins” can make a measurable difference—fast.

If you’re unsure where to start, you can always arrange a professional visit through EPCrate’s certified assessors in London:
👉 Book your EPC assessment

1. Replace Old Light Bulbs With LEDs

Switching traditional halogen or incandescent bulbs to LED lighting is one of the easiest ways to lift your EPC score. LEDs consume up to 90% less energy, last longer, and are now the recommended option for every room.

Why it helps your EPC:
The lighting section of the EPC explicitly records whether a property uses energy-efficient lighting. A high percentage of LED lights directly boosts your score.

2. Install Basic Draught-Proofing

Small drafts around windows, doors, chimneys, and floorboards make heating systems work harder. Simple fixes include:

  • Rubber door seals

  • Draught excluders

  • Gap fillers around window frames

  • Chimney balloons

These are cheap, DIY-friendly solutions that significantly reduce heat loss.

Why it helps:
EPC assessors note heat retention, and reducing unwanted airflow improves the property’s overall thermal performance.

3. Add Reflective Radiator Panels

A surprisingly effective EPC quick win is adding radiator reflector foil behind radiators fixed to external walls. These panels bounce heat back into the room rather than letting it escape through the wall.

They cost very little and can be installed in minutes.

4. Insulate Hot Water Pipes and Cylinder

Pipe insulation (lagging) and adding a cylinder jacket to a hot water tank help hot water stay warmer for longer. This reduces the need for constant reheating—a huge efficiency gain.

Why it helps your EPC:
The EPC software rewards properties that reduce energy waste from heating and hot water systems.

5. Smart Thermostat or Programmable Controls

Even if you don’t upgrade your heating system, installing:

  • Smart thermostats

  • TRVs (thermostatic radiator valves)

  • Programmable room controllers

can instantly improve EPC performance.

Why it matters:
The EPC heavily scores heating controls because they reduce unnecessary energy use, making your home much more efficient.

6. Seal Loft Hatches and Add Lightweight Loft Insulation

If you already have some loft insulation but it’s uneven or below the recommended 270mm, adding a top-up layer can make a noticeable difference. Also:
✔ Seal gaps around the loft hatch
✔ Add an insulation strip to prevent warm air escaping into the loft

This is one of the most cost-effective improvements assessors love to see.

7. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances (Where Visible)

While EPC assessments don’t rate every appliance, visible items such as built-in fridges or boilers contribute to the overall picture. Replacing outdated, energy-hungry appliances with A-rated models can give your rating a small but helpful lift.

8. Bleed Radiators and Maintain Heating Systems

A poorly balanced heating system wastes energy. Bleeding radiators and ensuring the boiler runs efficiently can improve heat distribution and reduce energy loss.

Tip:
If your boiler is older but still functional, a simple service may improve performance enough to impact the EPC positively.

9. Close Chimneys and Unused Fireplaces

A major heat-loss culprit: open chimneys. If unused, they create a constant draft. Installing:

  • Chimney balloons

  • Vent covers

  • Manual dampers

can stop warm air escaping and immediately improve thermal efficiency.

10. Check Windows for Air Leaks

You don’t need to replace windows to improve your EPC. Basic fixes include:

  • Window sealing tape

  • Clear insulation film

  • Rubber sealing strips

  • Secondary glazing film

These prevent heat escaping—especially in older homes—and can be installed in under an hour.

When Quick Wins Aren’t Enough

While these small changes can boost your EPC, some properties require deeper improvements such as:

  • Wall insulation

  • Upgrading glazing

  • Replacing an inefficient boiler

  • Installing renewable energy systems

If you’re unsure which upgrades will give you the highest return, consider getting professional guidance.

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Final Thoughts

If you need fast, affordable improvements before your next EPC visit, these quick wins can deliver immediate results—often within the same day. They’re inexpensive, simple, and effective for boosting your rating without major renovation.

Ready to get started?
👉 Book an EPC assessment with EPCrate today

Email :info@epcrate.co.uk

Phone:020 34884142