%20System.jpg)
Building Energy Rating
At NewBER, we are proud to be a leading BER Assessment company based in Carlow, serving homeowners and non-corporate landlords across Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Kildare, and Laois. Our mission is to help property owners understand, achieve, and maintain high energy efficiency standards in line with Irish building regulations.
Below, we explain in detail what a BER is, the criteria used in assessments, and why professional evaluation by NewBER ensures accuracy and compliance.
What Is a Building Energy Rating (BER)?
A Building Energy Rating (BER) is an official measure of how energy-efficient a property is. It is similar to the energy label found on household appliances and ranges from A to G, with A-rated homes being the most energy-efficient and G-rated homes the least.
A BER certificate provides valuable insights into the energy performance of your building, highlighting potential improvements and enabling property owners and tenants to make informed decisions regarding energy use and cost savings.
Under the European Union Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, a BER certificate is mandatory when selling or renting a home in Ireland. It is valid for 10 years, provided no major structural or energy-related upgrades are made.
%20System.jpg)
The Purpose of a BER Certificate
Improve market value:
Properties with higher BER ratings often sell or rent faster and at higher prices.
Reduce energy costs:
By identifying areas for improvement, homeowners can lower energy bills.
Enhance comfort:
Energy-efficient homes retain heat better and maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
Support sustainability:
A higher rating means reduced carbon emissions and a smaller environmental footprint.
Key Criteria Used in BER Assessments
1. Building Fabric and Insulation
High-quality insulation reduces heat loss through walls, roofs, and floors. The U-value of these elements plays a significant role in the final rating.
2. Heating Systems
The efficiency of your boiler or heating system, including how it distributes and controls heat, directly impacts energy use. Modern condensing boilers, for instance, contribute positively to your BER score.
3. Windows and Doors
Double or triple-glazed windows with airtight seals help maintain indoor temperatures and prevent drafts, improving thermal performance.
4. Ventilation
Proper ventilation systems balance air quality with minimal heat loss. Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) systems can significantly enhance efficiency.
5. Lighting
Energy-efficient LED lighting contributes to a better BER score compared to traditional incandescent bulbs.
6. Renewable Energy Sources
Properties incorporating solar panels, heat pumps, or biomass boilers benefit from improved ratings as they rely on sustainable energy sources.
Typical Recommendations to Improve Your BER
-
Upgrading attic or wall insulation
-
Replacing old boilers with efficient models
-
Installing programmable thermostats and smart controls
-
Sealing air leaks and improving ventilation
-
Switching to LED lighting
-
Adding renewable energy systems such as solar PV panels
%20System.jpg)
