Warmer homes: Heat networks
Heat networks are commonly installed in new blocks of flats but are sometimes installed in existing buildings to improve the efficiency of heating systems.
A heat network is a shared heating system that supplies multiple homes or buildings from a central energy source. So instead of individual boilers, heat is distributed through insulated pipes, providing reliable warmth and hot water.
Some of the benefits of having a heat network are:
- There is a consistent heating and hot water supply
- No gas safety checks required
- They can use a renewable energy source
When we install heat networks, we will:
- Ensure that it is correctly connected to the central heating system
- Install a new internal heat interface unit (HIU) which looks similar to a boiler
- Make some internal pipework adjustments
- Provide you with clear timelines and daily updates of the installation
- Fit new heating controls, provide help and support on how to use them
By using local energy sources, including waste and recovered heating and cooling, heat network systems can reduce the carbon emissions of a building by up to 88%.
Heat networks often have fixed tariffs. A heat meter helps track and manage usage and provide clear cost breakdowns.
The internal heat interface unit (HIU) is similar in size to a small boiler and the insulated pipes that lead into them aren’t visible inside your home.
New heat networks are highly regulated and designed to be incredibly efficient. Your heat interface unit isolates your home, so if something goes wrong in one home, it won’t affect yours. They can also feature smart pipes that can detect and report on any leaks instantly.
You can’t change a supplier as this is not gas nor other fuel that is distributed to your home, but heat. Heat (as hot water) is being produced in the centralised boiler or a heat pump. Then via network of pipes, it reaches your home. Gas or electricity feeding to a source of heat will have one supplier competitively procured by VIVID.
Installation time frames can vary depending on property type and existing infrastructure.
