How can I get a better EPC with FAR Infrared Heating?
Many homeowners and landlords are now looking for ways to improve an EPC rating without installing gas. With rising gas costs, decarbonisation targets, and increasing restrictions on fossil fuel heating, alternatives such as far infrared heating are being considered more often.
However, EPC ratings do not always reflect real-world efficiency. To understand how far infrared heating fits into EPC calculations, it is important to understand how EPCs are produced and how electric heating is currently treated.
Understanding EPC, SAP and RdSAP
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is calculated using either SAP or RdSAP, depending on the type of property being assessed.
- SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) is used for new build properties. It allows detailed input of heating system data, insulation levels, controls, and actual electrical consumption figures.
- RdSAP (Reduced Data SAP) is used for existing buildings. It relies heavily on assumptions and default values, particularly for electric heating systems.
This distinction is critical. Most existing homes assessed under RdSAP do not benefit from detailed system data, which can disadvantage modern electric heating technologies.
Can You Improve an EPC Without Gas?
Yes, it is possible to improve an EPC rating without gas, but it requires a broader strategy than simply changing the heating system.
Under current EPC methodology, electric heating is often penalised due to the assumed cost of electricity compared to gas. Far infrared heating is therefore typically categorised as electric panel heating within RdSAP assessments.
This does not mean infrared heating is inefficient in real terms. It means the EPC model prioritises fuel cost assumptions over how efficiently heat is delivered within a space.
Where Far Infrared Heating Fits In
Far infrared heating delivers warmth by heating people and surfaces directly rather than warming air. In practice, this can result in:
- Lower operating hours
- Reduced heat loss through ventilation
- Improved comfort at lower air temperatures
- Effective zoning and room-by-room control
However, EPC calculations do not directly measure comfort, runtime, or zoning efficiency. Instead, they focus on theoretical annual energy cost based on standardised assumptions.
Why Infrared Heating Can Still Support EPC Improvements
Although infrared heating is currently classed as electric heating for EPC purposes, it can still support EPC improvement when combined with other upgrades.
EPC scores are influenced by the building as a whole, not just the heat source.
Fabric First Improvements Matter Most
If you are trying to improve an EPC without gas, insulation and heat retention have a far greater impact than the heating system alone.
- Loft insulation – Increasing insulation depth to 270mm can significantly improve heat retention and EPC scoring.
- Wall insulation – Cavity or internal insulation reduces heat loss assumptions used in EPC calculations.
- Double or triple glazing – Reduces heat loss and improves overall thermal performance.
- LED lighting – Low-cost improvement that EPC assessors actively reward.
When these measures are in place, electric heating penalties have less impact on the final EPC score.
SAP Assessments and New Build or Fully Renovated Homes
For new build properties or projects undergoing full renovation, a SAP assessment may be used instead of RdSAP.
SAP allows:
- Accurate recording of heater wattage
- Detailed control systems and thermostats
- Zoned heating layouts
- Renewable integration such as solar PV
In these cases, far infrared heating can be represented far more accurately than under RdSAP, particularly when combined with smart controls and on-site generation.
Supporting Technologies That Help EPC Scores
If your goal is to improve EPC without gas, infrared heating performs best as part of a wider system.
- Smart thermostats – Improve control assumptions and demonstrate reduced energy waste.
- Solar PV – Offsets electrical demand and improves EPC calculations.
- Zoned heating layouts – Align with modern occupancy patterns.
You can calculate appropriate heater sizing using our wattage calculator to ensure correct system design.
Important EPC Reality Check
It is important to be clear: installing infrared heating alone does not guarantee an EPC improvement under current assessment models.
EPC ratings are driven by assumptions, not real-world comfort or runtime efficiency. That said, infrared heating remains a viable solution for gas-free properties when combined with insulation, controls, and renewable technologies.
Conclusion
If you are looking to improve your EPC rating without gas, far infrared heating can play a supporting role within a well-designed, fabric-first strategy.
By focusing on insulation, airtightness, efficient controls, and accurate system design, many property owners are able to improve EPC scores while avoiding fossil fuels altogether.
For tailored advice on gas-free heating solutions, speak to an infrared heating specialist.
