From A+ to F: Learn about the Home Energy Efficiency Scale

The home energy efficiency scale consists of a presentation of different energy classes whose purpose is to determine and portray the energy efficiency of a property.

Reviewed by Raúl Ferrão on December 8, 2023

What is energy efficiency?

Energy efficiency is the ability to use energy in an efficient manner, maximizing the desired results while minimizing energy consumption.

When we talk about the energy efficiency of a home, this refers to the intelligent and responsible use of energy for the purpose of heating water, climate control and other household systems. The goal is to cut energy consumption without compromising the comfort or functionality of a house and its appliances.

As a rule, a house with high energy efficiency has greater thermal comfort, better indoor air quality and more durable systems and components, in addition to guaranteeing lower energy costs.

What is the home energy efficiency scale?

The home energy efficiency scale consists of an orderly presentation of different energy classes that determine the energy efficiency level of a house. This scale is represented by letters and colors, and can vary by country or region.

In Portugal, the home energy efficiency scale is comprised of eight energy classes: A+, A, B, B-, C, D, E and F. These eight classes are organized by descending order of energy efficiency. In other words, the closer a home is to A+, the more efficient it is. In turn, the closer it is to F, the worse its energy performance will be.

The scale’s colors vary on a gradient of greens, yellows and reds. Green is associated with more efficient classes (A+, A, B), while yellow identifies the classes in the middle of the scale (B-, C, D), and red/orange represents the least efficient classes (E, F).

What is the home energy efficiency scale for?

The home energy efficiency scale is very important, since it allows consumers to easily understand the energy performance of a property. Thanks to this information, consumers can make more conscientious and sustainable decisions.

By encouraging better home energy efficiency, we are also helping to reduce the consumption of electricity, which results in savings for property owners and conservation of the environment, while also helping to cut energy production.

Do you have high energy costs? Find out which materials are best for insulating your home, and lower your electricity bill!

The better positioned a house is on the energy efficiency scale, the better its energy performance will be.

Questions? Our Energy Certification Department is ready to help with all of your questions on your home’s efficiency! If you can’t find the information you are looking for, send us a message!

How can you find out your home’s energy classification?

To find out your home’s energy classification, you will need an Energy Certificate.

The Energy Performance Certificate is a mandatory document for those wishing to rent out or sell a property. Thanks to this certificate, you can know what a home’s energy efficiency is.

Nevertheless, even if you aren’t thinking about putting your property on the real estate market, it could make sense to know where it stands on the energy efficiency scale. Why? Because the Energy Certificate also includes improvement measures you can take to make your home more efficient and sustainable, as well as saving on energy costs.

For those who need an Energy Certificate,
Neves & Ferrão – Certification is the answer!