A Homeowner’s Guide to Retrofitting in Ireland

Home retrofitting is an effective way to improve energy efficiency, lower utility costs, and create a more comfortable living space. With rising energy prices and a push towards sustainability including carbon emission reduction, retrofitting has become a priority for many Irish homeowners. In fact, over 60% of homeowners here are willing to improve their home’s energy efficiency.

Two leading companies in Ireland, NRG Panel and House2Home, specialise in retrofitting solutions, offering expert advice and a high-quality service. This guide explores the key benefits, types of upgrades, and steps involved in the retrofitting process, helping you make a more informed decision.

The Financial Benefits of Retrofitting

Retrofitting is a long-term investment that can lead to substantial savings on energy bills while also increasing the value of your home. The payback period depends on the type of upgrades carried out, the grants available, and overall energy savings.

Jamie McGill, One Stop Shop Manager at NRG Panel, explains:

“Home retrofitting can pay for itself. But it really depends on what work is done, the cost, applicable grants, the quality of products and the workmanship. For example, retrofitting a heat pump can improve the energy efficiency of a home but only if the home is appropriately insulated, airtight, etc. Certain works like attic and cavity wall insulation, when combined with an SEAI grant, can have a 1–2 year payback period. Other works, like solar PV, can pay for themselves within 5–7 years. Ultimately, when done correctly, over time home retrofitting will pay for itself.”

Reducing Energy Bills Through Retrofitting

If your home has high energy bills, rapid heat loss, or a low Building Energy Rating (BER), retrofitting could be highly beneficial. The best way to assess its suitability is through a professional evaluation, such as a BER assessment or a comprehensive Home Energy Assessment (HEA). These assessments identify key areas for improvement and can guide your upgrade choices. Grants are available to support these evaluations, and homeowners are not obligated to proceed with retrofitting after an inspection.

House2Home explains:

“The first step is a Home Energy Assessment, which includes a BER (Building Energy Rating) assessment. This process evaluates your home’s current energy performance and identifies areas for improvement, giving you a clear roadmap for retrofitting.”

Selecting a Trustworthy Retrofitting Provider

Choosing an experienced and certified retrofitter is crucial to ensuring high-quality results. Opt for SEAI-registered contractors, as they adhere to strict technical and quality standards. Additional factors to consider include:

• Business accreditations and certifications
• Customer reviews and testimonials
• Transparent pricing and detailed quotes
• Warranties on workmanship and products
• Aftercare and customer support services

David Foster from House2Home advises:

“Always choose a retrofitter certified by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) as a One Stop Shop. One Stop Shops must meet strict quality standards and ensure you qualify for grants and schemes.”

How Disruptive Is a Home Retrofit?

Some retrofitting measures are quick and easy, while others require more extensive work. Here’s a general guide, from least to most disruptive:

1. Attic insulation – Simple and non-intrusive, often completed in a day.
2. External wall insulation – Some external work required, but minimal impact inside the home.
3. Solar PV installation – Usually finished in a day, with only temporary power interruptions.
4. Internal wall insulation – More involved, requiring some modifications to interior walls.
5. Window and door upgrades – Can be disruptive, particularly in colder months.
6. Heating system upgrades – Involves replacing boilers or installing heat pumps, which can take several days.
7. Floor insulation – One of the most disruptive options, as it involves removing and replacing flooring.

Gearóid Whelan, Founder of JFW Renewables, shares:

“Each step should be customised for each home and homeowner. Typically, attic insulation is the least disruptive, followed by external wall insulation and solar PV installation. More disruptive measures include internal wall insulation, window and door upgrades, and heating system installations.”

Key Retrofitting Solutions to Consider

Several energy-saving measures can be implemented in a home retrofit. The most effective solutions include:

• Heat Pumps – Transfer heat from the air, ground, or water to warm your home efficiently.
• Solar PV Panels – Convert sunlight into electricity to power household appliances.
• Solar Thermal Panels – Use sunlight to heat water, reducing reliance on conventional water heating methods.
• Insulation Upgrades – Improve attic, wall, and floor insulation to reduce heat loss.
• Ventilation Enhancements – Improve air quality and prevent dampness.
• Window and Door Replacements – Increase energy efficiency and improve home comfort.

Ollie Hughes, Heat Pump Manager at Ohk Energy, explains:

“A heat pump is an energy-efficient device that transfers heat from outside sources like air, ground, or water into your home, even on cold days. Using electricity to transfer existing heat rather than generating it, heat pumps are significantly more efficient and environmentally friendly than traditional heating systems.”

Key Retrofitting Solutions to Consider

To encourage homeowners to adopt energy-efficient solutions, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) offers grants for various retrofit measures. These grants are available under different schemes, such as:

• One Stop Shop Service – Provides a full-home energy upgrade solution.
• Individual Energy Upgrades – Covers specific retrofitting measures like insulation or solar panels.
• Fully Funded Upgrades – For eligible homeowners who meet specific criteria.

By leveraging available grants, homeowners can significantly offset the costs of their retrofitting projects.

Home retrofitting is an excellent way to increase energy efficiency, reduce utility costs, and enhance overall comfort. Whether you choose insulation, heat pumps, solar panels, or a full energy upgrade, the benefits are long-lasting.

By consulting SEAI-approved providers like NRG Panel and House2Home, you can take the right steps toward a more sustainable and cost-effective home. A professional Home Energy Assessment can provide valuable insights into your home’s energy performance and the best retrofitting options available.

Wherever you are on your retrofitting journey, it’s essential to have the right home insurance in place to protect your investment. Get a home insurance quote from Aviva today.