No one is immune to the current energy crisis in the UK, and unfortunately, it looks like it is here to stay for the foreseeable future. Widespread fuel shortages due to issues with gas distribution and transportation, lately exacerbated by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, caused many of the UK’s leading energy providers to close their doors in 2021, and consumers are now facing a huge hike in heating bills as the supply struggles to meet the demand.
As evidenced by this sudden and severe energy crisis which has coincided with a rapid rise in the cost of living, it is well worth homeowners installing energy-efficient heating systems – not only to be more environmentally friendly but also to help towards combatting ever-rising costs related to heating the home. Invest in these four innovative methods to warm your house or flat and you will sleep peacefully, happy in the knowledge that you are saving energy and money.
Air Source Pumps
Air source pumps, along with ground source pumps, solar panels, and wood-burning stoves, enable you to generate your own renewable heat, making you less reliant on gas and helping to reduce your carbon footprint. Air source pumps work by absorbing heat from the outside air which is then compressed and released inside your home to increase the inside temperature, either via a wet central heating system e.g., radiators or through fans like air-conditioning units.
Biomass Boilers
Biomass heating systems can be used to power your central heating and hot water boiler or to warm a small space such as a single room. Biomass is a renewable energy source which is generated by burning natural fuel sources such as wood and plants, manure, or even organic household waste. These organic materials still release CO2, but significantly less compared to burning fossil fuels.
Underfloor Heating
This ground-breaking heating system has become one of the most popular methods for warming accommodation and seems set to replace traditional radiators. Pipes and cables run underneath your floor to create one large heater, providing an even distribution of warmth throughout the home which is far more efficient than using radiators spaced around your rooms. Another advantage is that the temperature remains more constant and comfortable, without random cold spots. Underfloor Heating is a fantastic energy-saving system to incorporate into new build homes.
Waste-Water Heat Recovery Systems
If you are planning to fit a new bathroom, consider adding a waste-water heat recovery system. This cleverly extracts the heat from residual bathwater that goes down the drain and uses this heat to raise the temperature of the incoming mains water. Around 60% efficient and with an expected 20-year lifespan, this system will help you to save money on your hot water by taking the strain off your boiler.