Lighting may seem like a minor factor in Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) assessments, but outdated lighting systems like halogen and incandescent bulbs can significantly drag down your EPC rating. Despite their warm glow, these old technologies are energy-hungry and inefficient, leading to EPC penalties that many property owners don’t anticipate.
How Lighting Efficiency Is Scored in EPC Assessments
EPC software evaluates lighting based on the percentage of fixed outlets (light fittings) using low-energy bulbs. To achieve a top rating, at least 75% of your fixed lighting outlets must use energy-efficient lighting, such as:
Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs)
LED bulbs
Other low-energy alternatives
If a property still relies on halogen or incandescent lighting, EPC assessors will default to lower lighting efficiency scores, which impact the building’s overall energy use rating.
Why Halogen & Incandescent Lighting Drags Down EPC Scores
High Wattage, Low Output: These bulbs consume significantly more electricity to produce the same level of illumination as LEDs.
Heat Waste: A large portion of the energy used by incandescent and halogen bulbs is emitted as heat, not light.
Default Penalties in EPC Software: If no evidence of low-energy lighting is found, EPC software may assume 0% efficient lighting coverage, which drastically affects your score.
Even in an otherwise well-insulated and efficient home, outdated lighting systems can cause a 1-band drop in EPC ratings, especially in properties with a high number of fixed fittings.
Upgrading Lighting: A Quick Win for Your EPC
Swapping halogen and incandescent bulbs for modern LEDs is a simple and cost-effective upgrade that can have an immediate positive impact on your EPC rating. Benefits include:
Up to 80% reduction in lighting energy use.
Longer lifespan, reducing maintenance costs.
Improved lighting efficiency scores in EPC assessments.
At Urgent EPC, we often see clients achieve EPC band improvements just by replacing inefficient lighting and booking a quick reassessment.
Book a Same-Day EPC After Upgrading Lighting
Replacing your property’s lighting with LEDs or CFLs? Make sure the improvement counts. With our same-day EPC services, you can get an updated certificate reflecting your property’s upgraded efficiency within 24 hours. Check our pricing plans for competitive rates.
Get Professional EPC Advice Today
Unsure if your property’s lighting is compliant with current EPC expectations? Contact our experienced assessors at Urgent EPC for tailored guidance. We ensure no small detail—like your light fittings—costs you valuable EPC points.
At Urgent EPC, we offer professional guidance on how to boost your EPC rating, including heating system evaluations. If you’re planning to install a heat pump or want to reassess your current EPC, we can help you get fast, certified results.
Call Us Today: +447741 812864
Email: info@urgentepc.co.uk
