Heating is one of the biggest factors in a property’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating. While traditional gas boilers or electric heating dominate most UK homes, more properties are now adopting hybrid heating systems—combining renewable and conventional energy sources.
But how does this setup affect EPC ratings, and is it worth the investment if you’re aiming for a higher energy efficiency score?
At Urgent EPC, our accredited assessors provide fast Residential EPCs and Same-Day EPCs across the UK, ensuring homeowners and landlords understand how modern heating systems influence their property’s performance.
🔥 What Is a Hybrid Heating System?
A hybrid heating system combines two or more heat sources to maximise efficiency. The most common setup in the UK is:
Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) + Gas or Oil Boiler
Solar Thermal Panels + Electric or Gas Backup
Biomass Heating + Conventional Boiler
The system switches between sources depending on demand, energy prices, or outside temperature. For example, an ASHP may heat a home most of the time, while a gas boiler kicks in on the coldest days.
🔍 How EPC Assessments Evaluate Hybrid Systems
EPC assessors use SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) or RdSAP software to model how efficiently a property’s heating, hot water, and insulation systems work. For hybrid systems, key considerations include:
Primary Heat Source Efficiency – Heat pumps and solar thermal typically score well due to renewable energy usage.
Secondary Heat Source Impact – If a gas or oil boiler is still in use, its efficiency rating will be factored in.
Control Systems – Smart thermostats and automatic switching between systems improve performance.
Carbon Intensity – EPC ratings take into account CO₂ emissions per kWh. Using renewable energy improves scores significantly.
📊 Example EPC Outcomes
A gas boiler-only home might score a D.
The same home fitted with a hybrid ASHP + gas boiler system could rise to a C, as renewable energy offsets reliance on fossil fuels.
A solar thermal + electric backup system could score even higher, especially if paired with good insulation.
👉 To see how your setup may affect your EPC, book a Residential EPC assessment.
✅ Benefits of Hybrid Heating for EPC Ratings
Improved EPC Scores – Better efficiency and lower emissions.
Future-Proofing – Aligns with UK government targets for low-carbon heating.
Lower Bills – Smart switching reduces reliance on expensive fuels.
Flexibility – Hybrid systems provide backup when renewables aren’t enough.
⚡ EPC and Regulation Outlook
The UK government is pushing towards net zero 2050 targets, with upcoming rules requiring rental properties to reach EPC Band C or above. Hybrid heating systems can be a cost-effective stepping stone for property owners who aren’t ready to fully switch to renewables.
👉 If you’re on a tight deadline, check our Same-Day EPC service for a quick compliance solution.
📞 Next Steps for Homeowners
Review your current heating system efficiency.
Consider hybrid upgrades, especially if replacing an ageing boiler.
Get a professional EPC assessment to see how changes will affect your rating.
👉 Explore our Pricing Plan for transparent costs, or Contact Us for tailored advice.
🌍 Final Word
Hybrid heating systems strike a balance between renewable and conventional heating, improving efficiency, cutting emissions, and supporting better EPC outcomes.
For UK homeowners, landlords, and developers, installing a hybrid system could be the difference between meeting minimum EPC standards and achieving a higher, more valuable rating.
👉 Book your Residential EPC today with Urgent EPC to see how your hybrid heating system performs.
