As energy efficiency standards tighten, Barry Fentem of Altecnic explores the alternatives to gas boilers which are available to help housing upgrades meet regulations while futureproofing homes with sustainable heating solutions.

As energy efficiency standards become more stringent, the housing industry must adapt by moving away from traditional gas boilers, which can no longer be considered the default for domestic heating. Housebuilders are now encouraged to explore alternative solutions that not only align with evolving regulations, but which also meet buyer expectations, and futureproof homes.

Heat Pumps 

Heat pumps are pivotal in sustainable housing, offering renewable, energy-efficient alternatives to boilers. By extracting heat from the air, ground, or water, they provide an environmentally friendly heating solution. With efficiencies often exceeding 300%, they support carbon reduction targets and improve SAP ratings, making them attractive for regulatory approval. Both air source and ground source heat pumps suit diverse property types and climates.

Heat Pump Components 

To ensure that heat pumps perform optimally, key components are essential. Components like anti-freeze valves, which work to protect the heat pump systems from freezing by opening at temperatures below 3ºC to allow system content to be dripped and discharged safely. This ensures continuous operation, even in extreme winter conditions, and prevents costly damage to the system. 

Dynamic balancing valves are another component that help to increase efficiency of a heat pump through distributing heat evenly throughout the heating system by regulating flow rates in each circuit. Finally, dirt and air filters help to remove air, debris, and magnetic particles from the heating system, thus maintaining optimal performance. By preventing blockages and wear, filters reduce maintenance costs and improve the system’s overall reliability.

Solar Thermal/Hybrid Systems 

Solar thermal/hybrid systems offer an effective way to generate domestic hot water using renewable solar energy. By combining renewable energy sources like solar thermal systems with efficient backup technologies, these systems ensure year-round performance, even during less sunny periods. They are an effective way to reduce reliance on non-renewable energy sources, lower carbon emissions, and futureproof homes against rising energy costs.

Solar thermal/hybrid heating systems offer a versatile and sustainable solution for modern homes by combining renewable solar energy with efficient backup technologies. These systems significantly reduce reliance on grid energy and fossil fuels, promoting energy independence and lowering utility costs for homeowners. During sunnier months, solar collectors are designed to efficiently generate hot water, while backup technologies like heat pumps or boilers can ensure consistent performance in colder or overcast conditions.

By automatically switching between energy sources based on demand, hybrid systems optimise efficiency and minimise carbon emissions. Their adaptability and scalability make them suitable for a variety of property types and climates, providing a reliable, as well as futureproof heating solution.

Solar Thermal/Hybrid System Components

Solar thermal/hybrid heating systems rely on a combination of advanced components to ensure efficiency, reliability, and seamless integration. For example, thermal stores, also known as buffer tanks, play a crucial role in solar and hybrid heating systems by efficiently managing and distributing heat energy. These cylinders or tanks are designed to store hot water or heat transfer fluid from multiple energy sources, such as solar collectors, heat pumps, or boilers to ensure a steady supply of hot water and heating even when the primary energy source is unavailable. Expansion vessels are another component that are designed to manage pressure fluctuations caused by the expansion and contraction of liquids within the system. These fluctuations occur naturally as water or heat transfer fluid heats up and cools down during system operation. Without an expansion vessel, the pressure changes could lead to stress on pipes, joints, and other components, potentially causing leaks or damage. 

Underfloor Heating 

Underfloor heating (UFH) is increasingly popular in homes, offering even heat distribution and enhanced comfort. When paired with low-temperature heat sources like heat pumps, UFH systems maximise energy efficiency and complement the open-plan layouts commonly found in contemporary housing designs.

UFH eliminates the need for radiators, creating more space for interior design flexibility. It operates at lower temperatures than traditional radiators, reducing energy consumption while improving air quality by minimising dust circulation within a property.

However, in retrofit projects, UFH can also be integrated with existing radiator systems, allowing homeowners to enjoy the benefits of both technologies. This combination is particularly effective for targeting specific zones with UFH while maintaining radiators in other areas, making it a practical and versatile solution for upgrading heating systems.

Underfloor Heating Components

Manifolds with flow meters are critical for distributing hot water to different zones within an UFH system. The inclusion of flow meters allows for precise control over water flow, ensuring each area of the home receives consistent and adequate heat. Proper flow regulation not only enhances comfort but also minimises energy waste by preventing overheating or underheating in specific zones. Thermostatic radiator valves are also
used in UFH systems. Here, TRVs are typically installed in mixed heating setups where underfloor heating is combined with radiators or where different zones require separate temperature control. They regulate the flow of hot water into the manifold or specific circuits based on the ambient temperature in each zone. This allows for precise control of heat distribution. 

Conclusion

The shift away from traditional boilers represents more than a regulatory change – it’s an opportunity for housebuilders to differentiate their developments with sustainable, future-proof heating solutions. Heat pumps, solar thermal/hybrid systems, and underfloor heating each offer distinct advantages for modern housing projects. By prioritising the use of quality components and adopting strategic implementation practices, housebuilders can lead the way in constructing homes that meet current demands and prepare for future challenges.

Barry Fentem is specification divisional manager at Altecnic