On the 26th September 2015 a new Energy related Product (ErP) directive form the EU comes into force. The ErP directive is designed to help the EU achieve its target to reduce energy use by 20% and increase share of renewable energies by 20% in 2020. It will affect all space and water heaters, ensuring they meet minimum energy requirements, and require the same type of energy efficiency labels as fridges and freezers.
You will still be able to install products purchased prior to 26th September but after this date, boiler manufacturers and installers will have to ensure that the products they use and the systems they commission, meet the minimum requirements within this new Energy relayed Products directive.
The new energy labelling affects manufacturers, retailers, homeowners and plumbers differently.
•Boiler and cylinder manufacturers will now need an energy rating for each product and will need to attach a sticker with the relevant rating. This will guide the plumber and homeowner as to the performance of the product.
•For the retailer it will be a question of promoting the energy rating, displaying it properly and actually educating the installer.
•For the homeowner it is not just about choosing the right boiler as most boilers on the UK market will be A-rated. It is also about all the accessories that go with a boiler such as controls, thermostatic radiator valves and pumps, which will help you achieve a much better energy rated system and ultimately a more efficient cost reducing one.
•For the installer it gets a bit more complicated as they will need to educate the homeowner and calculate the energy rating according to the products installed. An energy label for the whole system then needs to be provided by the plumber.
For more information and to download your guide tp ErP visit https://www.vaillant.co.uk/installers/services-and-support/erp-directive/index.en_gb.html
