ErP Directive: ecodesign for heat generators

Understanding the ErP Directive and its impact on heat generators

What ErP is for: ecodesign and energy performance objectives

The ErP (Energy related Products) Directive governs the placing on the market of heating and hot water equipment. The idea is simple. Set minimum performance thresholds and reduce consumption, noise and certain environmental impacts. For you, it's a clear benchmark for choosing compliant equipment, and a safeguard against overly energy-hungry models.

Which equipment is covered: boilers, heat pumps, water heaters and hybrid systems

Most residential heat generators sold in Europe are covered. Gas or oil boilers, air-to-water and water-to-water heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, electric and solar water heaters, and hybrid systems (heat pump + boiler). Requirements often cover seasonal efficiency and, depending on the product, emissions and auxiliary consumption.

ErP and the energy label: what your customers see and what you need to explain

Your customers mainly see the energy label. Class, output, noise level, sometimes a "product" data sheet and a "package" data sheet if you're assembling several elements (controls, solar, tank). Your job is to translate this information into real-world use. Comfort, sizing, consistency with the insulation, and expected savings without overselling.

The ErP requirements to know in 2026: thresholds, efficiencies and emissions

Seasonal efficiency: how ErP actually rates a heat generator

ErP doesn't judge an appliance on a "full-power" efficiency figure. It looks at seasonal efficiency (ηs), calculated over a heating season, factoring in standby losses, part-load operation and the impact of the controls. For a heat pump, the "SCOP" approach gives the most accurate picture. On the boiler side, the ecodesign thresholds in force effectively push toward condensing models (ηs typically starting around 86%, depending on the case). To go further, see also a heat pump's real-world performance.

Emissions and noise: points to watch on site and in renovation

Two points come up often on site. First, NOx emissions for boilers. Second, the noise of heat pump outdoor units, shown in dB(A) (sound power). In renovation, take care with the layout, anti-vibration mounts and distance from boundaries, otherwise a high-performing installation can quickly become a source of nuisance.

Documents and markings: what to check before installing

Before installing, check the energy label, the product data sheet, the CE marking and the EU declaration of conformity. Also check that the reference, output, application temperature and accessories are all consistent. These are the documents that protect your customer file, including for MaPrimeRénov' and CEE.

How to choose and sell ErP-compliant generators without complicating your life

Reading an ErP product data sheet: the key information to spot in 2 minutes

On an ErP product data sheet, go straight to the point. Identify the energy class and the seasonal heating efficiency (ηs). Also check the noise level (LwA) and the useful output at the reference temperature. On a heat pump, look at the SCOP and the flow temperature compatible with the emitters.

Avoiding common mistakes: sizing, accessories, controls

A generator that's too powerful cycles on and off, consumes more, and wears out faster. Base your sizing on the heat loss or the audit. On the accessories side, plan ahead for a buffer tank, expansion vessel, filter and water treatment depending on the network. Finally, good controls (outdoor sensor, modulating thermostat) are often worth as much as an extra kW.

A simple pitch: ecodesign, savings and everyday comfort

Keep the sales pitch simple. ErP compliance means ecodesign. Less energy wasted, so lighter bills. And day to day, a well-tuned appliance means stable comfort, less noise, and an installation that "runs smoothly".

ErP on the job: checks, evidence and securing your files

Traceability: keeping the useful supporting documents (label, manual, declaration)

On every job, keep a clear record of the equipment installed. File the energy label, the manual, the product data sheet and, where available, the declaration of conformity. Note the model's exact reference, the serial number, and keep 2 or 3 photos (nameplate, installation, commissioning). For ErP, this is often the simplest proof when you're asked "which appliance, which class, which performance?"

ErP, RGE and financial support: consistency with MaPrimeRénov' and CEE criteria

Your documents need to tell the same story as the quote, the invoice and the certificate. Check that the product installed matches the one declared, with consistent performance and marking. On the MaPrimeRénov' and CEE side, the eligible measures and rates require technical criteria to be met. Total consistency avoids rejections and returned files — and if needed, rely on good practices to avoid MaPrimeRénov' file rejections.

In case of a dispute or an inspection: the reflexes that protect your business

Keep one file per job, dated, signed, backed up. Add the commissioning report, proof of payment, and correspondence with the customer. Respond quickly, factually, with a clear timeline. A well-organised file is like good insulation. It cuts off leaks of time and money.

Anticipating changes to the ErP Directive: preparing from 2026 onward

What might change: ecodesign requirements and calculation methods

The revision of the ecodesign rules could raise the seasonal efficiency thresholds, and tighten rules on noise and standby consumption further. The calculation and testing methods (EN standards) may also be adjusted, which would change the values shown on the energy label and in the EPREL database.

Updating your practices: a job-site checklist and supplier selection

On site, plan for a simple checklist to secure your ErP files and avoid bad surprises during an inspection.

• Ask for the manufacturer's product data sheet and declaration of conformity.
• Check the EPREL registration and that the energy class is up to date.
• If you're selling a package (heat pump + controls, tank, solar), provide the system data sheet and the label for the combined package.
• Archive manuals, settings and installation photos.

Training your teams: technical points to cover to stay compliant

Train your teams to read the labels, to size based on the bivalence temperature, and to set up the controls. A key point remains commissioning, with readings, parameter settings and handing the documents over to the customer.