March 25, 2019
Here at Hodgkinson Bennis, the UK’s Committee on Climate Change recently captured our attention. In a report out last month, the independent body stated that ‘UK homes are unfit for the challenges of climate change’. (https://www.theccc.org.uk/2019/02/21/uk-homes-unfit-for-the-challenges-of-climate-change-ccc-says/). It identified ways of cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions from housing, from retrofitting existing units to revised standards for new-built homes. It may seem strange that a company dealing with commercial and industrial boilers is sharing this story. But the truth is that, increasingly, heating and hot water systems for housing require a bigger perspective. And in this blog, we’re focusing on energy efficient housing associations.
Commercial boiler solutions for energy-efficient housing
Housing associations that deploy communal heating systems can benefit from Hodgkinson Bennis’ expertise with energy efficiency. For large blocks of flats or district heating systems, we can work to make the heating and hot water systems in all properties as reliable as possible. This will have the added advantage of reducing tenants’ long-term energy usage. As well as helping them to remain current with their utility payments, it improves housing providers’ cashflow. And furthermore, it will help meet any energy efficiency or carbon emissions targets which the government imposes.
Energy efficiency for housing associations starts with the boiler
We’re experts at fitting and commissioning new boiler plant, while causing minimum disruption to tenants. We’ll be able to talk housing providers through such issues as the type of fuel to use. For instance, a biomass boiler might be the best option for a communal heating system, as it can qualify for the Non-Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI). This government environmental programme provides financial incentives to increase the uptake of renewable sources of energy by various organisations. We can also advise on the latest Building Regulations, which set minimum efficiency standards for new and replacement boiler installations. And if the boiler is above a certain size, we can advise on meeting the emissions limits of the Medium Combustion Plant Directive (MCPD).
Regular maintenance boosts housing association energy efficiency
Whatever the boiler’s specification, it won’t operate at peak efficiency without a regular service and maintenance schedule. This is another area where Hodgkinson Bennis is expert. Depending on the type of boiler, we can undertake annual gas safety checks for gas equipment, while for steam and high-pressure hot water boilers we can undertake Pressure Systems Safety Regulations inspections. Meanwhile, to ensure that heating and hot water are distributed effectively throughout any system, we can maintain pipework and remove redundancies. And we’re always available for emergency repairs of boilers and pipework in the event of adverse weather or other unforeseen problems.
Modern control systems for smooth running
Hodgkinson Bennis can also help in providing or advising on the latest technology in control equipment. State-of-the-art thermostats in each housing unit will allow tenants to maintain the temperature of their residence. In particular thermostatic radiator valves in each room allow for differential temperatures throughout flats. As for communal areas, it might be best to fit timing controls or a compensator (which automatically regulates temperature on the basis of weather conditions).
It’s also worth reviewing the broader management systems for utilities in housing units operating a communal heating system. For instance, the metering system for a communal heating system may be vulnerable to wiring failures. Moreover, it may be unduly complicated; some systems require four separate regular meter readings for electricity, cold water, hot water and heat. Again, there are organisations which can provide advice on rationalising systems.
Hodgkinson Bennis can help with the reliability of communal heating and hot water systems for energy-efficient housing associations. Speak to one of our team today!
Find Hodgkinson Bennis here:
Call: 0161 790 4411
About Hodgkinson Bennis
Hodgkinson Bennis design, install and maintain the most fuel-efficient commercial and industrial boilers. Headquartered in Manchester, we work across the UK, particularly in the North West, North East and throughout the Midlands. Contact us today to discuss how we can deliver advanced commercial and industrial boilers.
At Hodgkinson Bennis, we have worked with commercial and industrial boilers since 1872. This history gives us an enviable amount of experience as pioneers in the industry. We place an enormous emphasis on ensuring the health and safety of all team members, suppliers, contractors, and the public. We provide the most fuel-efficient boiler solutions for industrial and commercial applications. The efficiency of our steam and hot water systems can significantly reduce carbon footprint. Fuel efficiency is of particular importance for both private and public sector organisations. Our boiler ranges are already making an impact on fuel usage for commercial and public sector facilities across the UK.