Technology Installed:
– 2 x Panasonic TCAP 12kW air source heat pumps
– 236 litre hot water cylinder (made bespoke to fit the available space)
– Several radiator replacements
Funding:
Boiler upgrade scheme (£7,500 contribution from the Government)
Location:
Royston
Here at Eco Installer, we love a challenge, and we love variety; this project was undoubtedly both.
Chris called us to discuss replacing his existing gas boiler with an air source heat pump. He was keen to move away from fossil fuels and look at his options when it came to renewable energy. We were more than happy to have an informal – and non-obligatory – discussion to talk about what we thought would work best for his property.
The first step in the process was to share some budgetary costs over the phone and arrange a design meeting with Shane; following a visit to the property and our usual heat loss calculations, Eco Installer confirmed that two air source heat pumps would be needed to heat the family home. However, it wasn’t quite as straightforward as many other jobs we have previously carried out with the same specifications. Why? Because, not only was the property a beautiful thatched cottage, but it was also a listed building. There was so much additional information to consider.
When a property is a listed building, the process of installing a heat pump is slightly different…but we are very experienced in this field, so we knew exactly what needed to be done. Chris applied for planning consent, which usually takes between 8-10 weeks to gain approval. During this time, we worked closely with Chris on his application and provided supporting evidence as and when required. Along with planning consent, we also had to apply for DNO approval to install two air source heat pumps. But again, with our many years of experience, we achieved the result that Chris needed to complete the project. It wasn’t without its tricky moments, but by working together, we got there!
With these heat pumps set up, we were then governed by pipework distance requirements. This meant we had a tricky job of bringing the pipes up through the narrow roof, across the new part of the house, and into the old part. Then – yes, there was more – we also took out the old boiler, fitted the internal units in the same location, replaced the cylinder into the loft, and added a few new radiators (and replaced several others) with triple radiators and aluminium radiators to meet the room’s heat loss; in fact, every job we complete is with the customer’s best interest at heart.
Now breathe…that was a lot. However, the end result was fantastic, and Chris was thrilled with his upgraded heating system. We built a great working relationship and got the job done to a standard that we were proud of – because that is what it is all about. Chris now has an eco-friendly home and is starting to reap the financial benefits. And do you want to know the best bit? He was able to take advantage of the Government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) and received £7,500 towards his installation. What a great ending to a long project.
Testimonial:
Eco Installers have delivered an impressive heat pump installation in our listed home. Their initial survey was very thorough and built the confidence we needed to work with them for what was a difficult retrofit project. The challenges of designing our installation required access and knowledge to a wide range of alternative solutions – which was no problem for them. The team installing the system were hard-working, courteous and tidy and were capable of solving the inevitable challenges of a complex project. They presented solutions which, whilst not easy to implement, were aligned with our wish to ensure the character of the house was maintained. I am confident in recommending them.
Chris.
