Winter is fast approaching, and with it comes the risk of rising energy bills. In a context where energy efficiency has become a major issue in Belgium, preparing your home before the cold season is both an economic choice and a sustainable gesture.
Additionally, each Belgian Region (Wallonia, Flanders, Brussels-Capital) offers grants for energy renovation and financial assistance to encourage homeowners to improve the energy performance of their housing.
So, what work should be considered before winter? Insulation, heating, ventilation… this guide helps you prioritize the most effective actions to enjoy a comfortable and efficient indoor environment during the cold season.
Insulation: the first step to reduce heat loss
Before thinking about heating, it is essential to prevent heat from escaping. In Belgium, a poorly insulated home can lose up to 30% of its heat through the roof, 25% through the walls, and 15% through the windows.
Investing in good insulation thus allows for reduced consumption, increased comfort, and compliance with energy performance requirements (PEB in Wallonia and Brussels, EPC in Flanders).
Insulating attics and roofs
Roof insulation is one of the most cost-effective improvements. Whether done by blowing, using panels, or sarking, it immediately enhances comfort and reduces heating needs.
Insulating walls
Walls account for a quarter of thermal losses.
- External insulation (ITE) ensures excellent performance and modernizes the façade.
- Internal insulation remains an interesting alternative for homes where ITE is not possible.
Each region sets maximum thermal transmittance values (U-values) to be met to qualify for regional grants.
Replacing old windows
Aging windows allow cold and moisture to enter. Installing double or triple glazing with efficient frames improves thermal and acoustic comfort.
Modernizing your heating system before winter
Once insulation is reinforced, it is essential to have an efficient heating system that complies with Belgian standards.
An old appliance consumes more, pollutes more, and risks breaking down just when it is needed most.
The most efficient solutions
- Air/water heat pump: captures heat from the outside air to heat the water circuit. It reduces consumption by up to 50% and is well-suited for well-insulated homes.
- Condensing boiler: is a favorable replacement for an old oil or gas model. It recovers heat from the flue gases and allows for savings of up to 30%.
- Hybrid system: combines heat pump and condensing boiler; it automatically selects the most efficient source based on the weather.
Available assistance
Each region offers assistance:
- Wallonia: "RénovÉnergie" grants that can be combined based on income and performance achieved.
- Brussels-Capital: "Renolution" grants centralizing all assistance at a single point.
- Flanders: "Mijn VerbouwPremie" for energy renovation and insulation.
