Heating and hot water systems

Reducing the energy consumption from heating and hot water can be a very cost effective measure, particularly where the heating system is to be upgraded. Further improvements in the energy efficiency of the house can be achieved where the building is insulated prior to replacement or upgrading the heating and hot water systems. Replacement of a heating and hot water systems are controlled by the Building Regulations, Part L and must be carried out in accordance with the standards recommended in the guidance to the Regulations. The actual work should be carried out by engineers registered by the competent person schemes approved by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM).

The design of an energy efficient heating and hot water system takes account of the following points:

• The system is correctly sized to warm up the dwelling from cold taking account of heat gains from the sun, people, lights and appliances
• It uses fuel as efficiently as possible
• Provides heating and hot water only when required and where needed
• Have controls that are easy to use and understandable.

An efficient heating system will reduce running costs and can be seen to add value to a property. A complete system replacement provides opportunities for improving the energy efficiency and assessing the option of which heating fuel to use. A partial replacement, such as replacing a hot water cylinder still allows opportunities for improving controls and insulation standards.

Further Information

• CE49 - Domestic heating and hot water - choice of fuel and system type
• GPG 345 - Domestic heating by electricity
• CE50 - Controls for domestic central heating and hot water
• CE101 - Domestic energy efficiency primer
• CE 83 - Energy Efficiency refurbishment of existing housing
• CE51 - CheSS Central Heating System Specifications