Why EPC assessors need to keep pace with modern electric heating.

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) play an increasingly important role in property sales, lettings and refurbishment decisions. As technology evolves, so too should the recommendations that underpin them.

One of the biggest misconceptions in the industry is that electric heating hasn’t changed. Many assessors understandably recommend the same types of heating systems they have relied on for years, but today’s high heat retention (HHR) storage heaters are a world away from the bulky, inefficient storage heaters of the past.

Modern HHR storage heaters have been developed specifically to deliver improved comfort, greater control and significantly lower running costs. They feature advanced insulation, intelligent charging algorithms, programmable controls and precise electronic thermostats, allowing them to retain heat when it’s needed and release it throughout the day far more effectively than older models.

The Electrorad Thermastore HHR for an example, is recognised on the BRE SAP Product Characteristics Database (PCDB), it combines a high heat retention core with adaptive charging technology, optional app control, open-window detection and a direct-acting boost element. It can operate on Economy 7 tariffs while automatically learning how much energy to store based on anticipated demand, helping to avoid unnecessary electricity consumption.

For assessors, this matters because the heating system recommended can have a significant influence on an EPC rating. Simply suggesting “new storage heaters” without considering the latest HHR products could mean overlooking technologies specifically designed to improve energy performance and reduce running costs. Products listed on the SAP database are recognised within the assessment methodology, making it important to specify the correct type of heater rather than relying on outdated assumptions.

The pace of innovation in electric heating has accelerated dramatically over the last decade. Features such as occupancy sensing, smart controls, geolocation, adaptive charging, voice integration and remote management are now becoming commonplace. These advancements give homeowners far greater control over their energy use while helping to improve comfort and reduce waste.

As regulations tighten and the UK continues its transition towards lower-carbon homes, keeping up to date with new heating technologies is no longer optional – it’s essential. Taking the time to understand the latest generation of SAP-listed heating products ensures assessors can provide recommendations that reflect today’s technology, rather than yesterdays.

Ultimately, better-informed recommendations don’t just improve EPC assessments – they help homeowners make smarter investment decisions and achieve better long-term energy performance.

Want to learn more? Electrorad can provide technical guidance and product information to help with EPC and SAP assessments. Or simply Get in Touch to hear about the latest developments in high heat retention storage heating.