THINKING LONG TERM

If boosting efficiency is one of the key goals of your renovation project, switching from a gas/oil boiler-driven heating system to one that’s fuelled by renewable tech might be something you’ve already considered. “Typically, this means looking into the various options for heat pumps or another similar piece of renewable tech,” says Chris Holt from CDI. Heat pumps (air and ground source) run most efficiently when delivering low temperature water (around 35°C) to underfloor heating systems within a well-insulated home. Radiators run at a higher flow temperature than UFH, so you’ll never achieve the optimum level of performance from a heat pump that’s working overtime to deliver the required heat output to keep your home warm.

“It’s worth looking at what is required from the building to allow for these types of kit to be installed,” says Chris. Heat pumps don’t work as well when they’re installed in properties with poor U-vales (a measure of heat loss, where lower numbers indicate superior performance). Therefore, as part of the works that are taking place, you’ll need to establish a well-insulated, airtight shell to ensure this type of renewable tech is a viable option.