New figures reveal the typical Briton’s lack of knowledge around energy efficiency issues in the home.

The research found that only 35 per cent understand how energy efficient heat pumps work, compared to 70 per cent of people who understand a gas boiler. 

Some 42 per cent of respondents don’t know what their home’s Energy Performance Certificate rating is, and 16 per cent had never heard of an EPC. 

Only 21 per cent know how much they could receive in grants for home heating, with lack of awareness about what is available highest in the North East of England (81 per cent) followed by East of England (75 per cent).

Almost two-thirds (61 per cent) of likely sellers have previously researched government grants for home heating improvements but were confused about their eligibility, and a similar figure (57 per cent) say they just don’t know how to make their home more energy efficient. 

Just over two-thirds (65 per cent) assume they are not eligible for government grants, with a similar figure (69 per cent) falsely believing grants for home heating improvements are only available for people with low incomes.

Robin Peters – chief executive of Snugg, which commissioned the survey – says: “Sellers’ lack of access to available information on home energy efficiency changes risks slowing an already spluttering property market – with home energy efficiency improvements known to increase value by up to £15,000. At the same time, homes in the UK rank amongst the worst in Europe for energy efficiency – responsible for more than a fifth of the UK’s CO2 emissions.

“It’s little wonder people are confused when current grant schemes are uncoordinated and the government’s ever-shifting position on net zero provides little certainty or clarity to homeowners. It’s vital that we ensure everyone has access to the knowledge needed for simple and affordable home changes that can both help boost the property market and accelerate our transition to net zero.”