Heritage home revamp benefits from heat pump
A new NIBE air source heat pump has been installed to bring green heating to an 18th century thatched cottage
Alexander Sims transformed his period cottage by installing a NIBE air source heat pump. is allowed him to move away from the cost, inconvenience and lack of environmental credentials attributed to oil heating systems. e picturesque house had seen two extensions between the 1950s and 1980s, both of which helped to create the beautiful spacious home it is today. In the next stage of renovations, Alexander was eager to transform the cottage into a more energy efficient, eco-friendly property – a dream that meant moving away from oil heating. Switching to a renewable heating system was absolutely essential. When planning the renovation, Alexander ascertained that an air source heat pump, complemented by underfloor heating, would be the most suitable solution. After close consultation with Eco Installer (www. ecoinstaller.co.uk), the NIBE F2040 16kw air source heat pump was selected and installed alongside an SM020 controller, NIBE relay module and circulation pump, and a 300 litre Megacoil hot water cylinder. What’s more, the system is powered with the support of solar panels on the roof.
Eco renovation
e project is a great example of how cutting-edge renewable systems can be integrated into older properties. Eco Installer reported that fitting the heat pump was straightforward with minimum disruption. Shane Freeland, director at Eco Installer, says: “heat pumps are ideal as a replacement to oil or LPG systems with both air source and ground source having many benefits. e system has resulted in the house securing an EPC rating of A and RHI payments in line with our predictions.” e heat pump now provides an ambient temperature and plentiful hot water in all weather conditions. Combined with 10kw of solar panels, high quality double glazing and insulation, the spacious cottage is now kept at a comfortable temperature with ease and simplicity. Furthermore, Alexander is now enjoying payments of around £1,300 per annum for each of the seven years associated with the Renewable Heat Incentive scheme. Commenting on his low carbon home, Alexander says: “Everything has worked out fantastically well and we are really happy with the results. e NIBE heat pump is quiet, looks nice and functions all year round. “e support received to make sure we know how everything works has been excellent and I feel every penny that we spent was worth it. I would definitely recommend both the NIBE system and Eco Installer and feel that more homeowners should explore the benefits that renewable energy systems can bring to domestic properties”.
NIBE 0330 311 2201 www.nibe.co.uk