Heating & Cooling Engineering Solutions
Heat Networks
Heat Networks (also known as communal or district heating schemes) are the net zero solution of choice for supplying low carbon heating, hot water, and/or cooling efficiently to modern-day apartment blocks.
The benefits of the economies of scale have been identified by national government, and now the use of advanced technology and carefully engineered heat networks is almost standard practice for more densely populated urban environments.
As a result, the Climate Change Committee estimates that heat networks could serve 8 million customers by 2030 and provide 20% of the UK’s heating requirements by 2050.
Seemingly subtle improvements to the heat network solution can deliver significant returns. We work alongside key stakeholders to deliver a system that’s reliable, environmentally friendly and cost effective for the long term.
Heat Networks, Energy Centres and Net Zero
The UK government has identified these systems as one of the pillars to delivering net zero by 2050, and now the use of carefully engineered heat networks is standard practice in more densely populated urban environments.
When maintained and operated correctly, this evolving technology has the potential to outperform conventional gas-based heating systems, providing a reliable supply at an affordable cost. However, these benefits are only possible when managing agents avoid the common pitfalls and adopt best practice for their maintenance regimes, which is where we deliver.
From handover onwards, we optimise asset performance to ensure it benefits from fewer energy losses, reduced carbon emissions and enhanced energy efficiency. These complex systems can only perform to their optimum when operated correctly, which requires competent and qualified staffing to deliver the low carbon benefit.
Heat/Cooling Interface Units
The heat network principle works by generating energy in a centralised energy centre and distributing it to individual apartment-level Heat Interface Units (HIU’s).
As the name suggests, HIU’s act as an interface between the energy centre and the point of use within a home, providing the end user with fully a controllable heat, cooling and water supply on a 24/7/365 basis, which can be adjusted to suit personal preferences.
In most cases HIU’s cater for metering, which ensures the “Heat Supplier” can comply with the Heat Regulations by billing residents based on their actual consumption.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
HIU Maintenance
Whilst the HIU concept is simple, they are integral to the overall operation of heat networks. As would be expected, HIUs have complex servicing and maintenance requirements, which can lead to significant problems if not considered as part of the common maintenance strategy.
We often find issues arise due to poor or limited understanding of where Landlord responsibility ends, and User responsibility commences in relation to these units. This can lead to conflict if the Managing Agent of Landlord do not have an adequate understanding of how these systems are operated and maintained.
Our engineers have extensive knowledge of these units, and have trained with leading HIU manufacturers including Altecnic, Bosch, Danfoss, SAV, Inta, YGHP and many more.
Cooling Systems
Every heat network is different. Some only provide heating and hot water, while others are more complex and will have cooling, cold water and in some cases, electricity.
Air conditioning helps to ensure air quality and eliminates the need to open windows. This is especially useful within urbanised communities, hospitals, restaurants, technical or computing environments, to preserve a clean, temperature-controlled environment.
Our Refcom registered AC engineers will tailor a maintenance regime that meets all HVCA and Safe Contractor guidelines, encompassing environmental control and ventilation services, refrigeration, and comfort cooling.
Looking for a Total Heat and Energy Management Provider?
Our partner company, DMG Delta is a leading provider of heat network maintenance, engineering and support services for you and your residents.
Together, we now offer a complete solution for your heat networks and energy needs, from maintenance to energy procurement, metering & billing. We’re driving sustainability, ensuring regulatory compliance and freeing you up to focus on what you do best.
We specialise in mechanical and electrical heating and hot water maintenance, our expert engineers provide 24/7/365 M&E and breakdown support across London, the Home Counties and Eastern England:
Building services maintenance and engineering solutions
Heating, hot water & boiler plant
Heat networks & energy centres
Maintenance schedules and emergency breakdown services
We’re committed to making your properties more efficient and sustainable, safeguarding your assets, and driving towards a net-zero future with innovative solutions.
Insights & Resources
Case Study: Huntley Wharf, Reading
Huntley Wharf, Reading Managing Agent: POD Developer: Berkeley Homes Housing Association: L&Q Number of Apartments: 765 Phased Completion: 645 apartments set up and billing Data Energy Contract: Energy ProcurementSite: 33 residential apartments, heat...
Case Study: Navigator Building, Bristol
The Navigator Building, Bristol Managing Agent: FirstportData Energy Contract: Energy ProcurementSite: 33 residential apartments, heat network meteringOverviewIn March 2023, we were approached by the property manager of The Navigator to resolve a complex issue...
Case Study Queens Quarter
Queen's Quarter, Croydon Managing Agent: Encore Estate ManagementDeveloper: HUBDMG Contract: M&E, HIU Service & MaintenanceData Energy Contract: Metering & Billing ServicesSite: 513 residential apartments, 4 buildings all fed from one energy centre...
Resources: Total Heat and Energy Management
Looking for a Total Heat and Energy Management Provider? Our partner company, DMG Delta is a leading provider of heat network maintenance, engineering and support services for you and your residents. Together, we now offer a complete solution for your heat...
Resources: Get Ofgem Compliant
Get Ofgem Compliant Preparing your heat networks for the new regulationsData Energy
Resources: Partnering with You
Partnering with You Discover our range of energy services - download our brochure.Data Energy
Latest News & Blog
Stronger Together: We’re Finally United
After 30 years of delivering reliable heat and energy solutions, we’re thrilled to announce the next big step in our journey. Today, we’re rebranding and joining forces with our partner company, DMG Delta to bring you smarter, more integrated solutions. The heat and...
Chairman Completes Half Marathon for Charity
Recently, our very own Chairman, John Baker, took on the challenge of completing a half marathon for charity. His chosen cause was the David Nott Foundation, an organisation that plays a vital role in helping civilians caught in conflict zones. The Foundation,...
We are hosting a new TPI Heat Network Training Course!
As a Property Manager, the responsibilities you carry are vast and complex. From managing tenant relationships to ensuring that all aspects of the building run smoothly, your role is multifaceted. But when it comes to communal heating systems, hot water, and Combined...