Berc.ie

What is a BER?

A Building Energy Rating (BER) is a standard calculation of the energy performance of a building. The rating is carried out by a qualified assessor using specific procedures, including a calculation method and software approved by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI). A BER is somewhat similar to an A to G rating of household electrical appliances. The rating is based on the primary energy demand, ranging in scale from A1 (most efficient) to G (least efficient).

Why do I need a BER?

• · The European Communities (Energy Performance of Buildings) Regulations 2006 (as amended by the 2008 Regulations) require that a valid Building Energy Rating (BER) must be available for:
• · Existing buildings when let or sold on or after the 1st of January 2009.
• · New dwellings that have applied for and have been granted planning permission on or after 1 January 2007
• · New non-residential buildings that have applied for and have been granted planning permission on or after the 1st of July 2008

What are the benefits of obtaining a BER?

Buildings have been identified as one of the largest users of energy in the EU, representing 40% of total energy consumption. Ultimately, the EU directive on the energy performance of buildings aims to reduce the demands on the world’s rapidly diminishing stocks of fossil fuels. A BER enables owners to accurately gauge the energy performance of their building and to make the appropriate adjustments if necessary to improve this performance. At the same time, it allows potential buyers or tenants to assess the annual running costs of the building – a factor which is becoming increasingly important as energy costs are expensive.

For how long will a BER remain valid?

A BER certificate will remain valid for 10 years from the date of issue, as long as no material changes have been made to the building which could affect its energy performance. Such changes could include: an extension to the building; changes to the heating system or fuels used; or significant changes to the building’s fabric.

What is Air Tightness Testing?

The air-tightness of a building, otherwise known as its ‘air permeability’, measures the air leakage with a view to highlighting gaps, holes and cracks in the fabric of the external building envelope. Air tightness testing is primarily a detection tool which can identify areas requiring attention, reducing energy costs and improving the thermal comfort of the building.

How is an Air-Tightness Test carried out?

An air tightness test is carried out by fitting a blower door assembly to one of the doors and all vents and fireplaces are sealed off. A high pressure fan is fitted to the assembly and the rate of air exchanges per hour in the building is measured. All house types are required by the Regulations to carry out a test and comply with an air leakage value of 10m3/m2h or less. A smoke pencil is used to demonstrate the areas where leakage is occurring, or alternatively Thermal Imaging can be used.

Why an Air-Tightness Test?

The Building Regulations provisions that came into effect on the 1 July 2008 introduce mandatory air tightness testing for new dwellings.

What is Thermal Imaging?

Thermography is a diagnostic tool which reads surface temperatures and shows it in the form of a thermograph. This tool is used to locate:

• · Leaks hidden to the human eye
• · Inconsistent insulation in walls and roofs
• · Thermal bridging
• · Problems with under-floor heating
• · Un-insulated service pipes
• · Air leakage around service pipes
• · Leakage around windows and doors
• · Un-insulated trap door to attic

How is Thermal Imaging done?

Very sophisticated infra-red camera equipment is used.

Our Assessors are trained to Level 1 standard by the Institute of Infra-Red Training Centre

What are the benefits of Thermal Imaging?

It identifies air leaks hidden to the human eye. It cost effectively identifies where money should be spent on improvements. It is our experience that in many instances money is wasted on work that shouldn’t have been prioritised.

What is a New Build Energy Saving Plan?

It is ideal for new self-build situations from planning right up to the early stage of building. We will work with you and produce a comprehensive report to guide you on measures required to ensure that you get a high energy efficiency performance and lower running costs. In addition we will do a BER certificate when the house is complete.

What is a Retrofit Survey for existing dwelling?

This is suitable for owners who are preparing to put their home on the market for sale or rent. They are concerned that it may not achieve a good energy rating. BERC will do a home survey and prepare a report or advise you on cost effective measure that can be undertaken and will go on to do a BER certificate when the improvements are complete.

What is an Energy Saving Home Audit for existing dwellings?

This is for the home owners who wish to have a comprehensive audit done on their home but do not wish to get a BER certificate as they are not putting their property on the market. This is a very popular service and BERC will guide the owners to achieve high energy performance and lower running costs either by way of report or advice.

What is ultra-sonic leak detection for windows and doors?

State-of-the-art equipment is used by us to show for example where window seals are not doing their job. Ideal for new builds before final payments are made to the suppliers.