ATAG Gas Boiler Installation in Hove
Location: Hove, East Sussex
Project Type: Heat Pump ready boiler & heating system design in East Sussex, future proofed retrofit
This Hove – based project is a textbook example of future-proofing a home during major renovation. The property was undergoing a deep retrofit, including a large extension and loft conversion, and while the budget didn’t allow for an air source heat pump at this stage, the client had a clear goal: prepare the heating and hot water system for a seamless transition to a heat pump later.
Heating System Design
New radiators were to be installed throughout, which meant that we would need to meet the requirements of Building Regulation Document J and design for a 55°C flow temperature. This would make the radiators heat pump ready.
The customer chose the stunning Stelrad Vita Deco AKA Horizontal and Vertical Line range. We provided support in selecting the correct size rads for the required outputs, so the customer got the look they desired with no sacrifice in functionality. All radiators were fitted with high quality Drayton RT212 thermostatic radiator valves.
Underfloor Heating Integration
The open-plan extension and entrance hall area was to be underfloor heating (UFH) – ideal for a heat pump. We used Multipipe for the UFH design and materials. They supplied floor plans and an overlay system which kept the build-up of the floor to just 20mm, so that ceiling height was maximised.
Hot Water System Upgrades
We also needed the hot water cylinder to follow this philosophy, so we specified a Joule Cyclone Plus cylinder with a high coil output, making the hot water system heat pump ready. This is a large house, so we also installed a hot water circulation pump which ensured that hot water was available at all hot taps and showers within seconds.
The hot water circuit is controlled by a timer and pipe stat to minimise pump operation and conserve energy.
Future-Proofing for a Heat Pump
To ensure that the installation was truly heat pump ready, we installed pre-insulated heating pipe from the garage to the future ASHP location in the rear garden. This meant that a heat pump could easily be fitted outside at a future date.
Controls & Zoning Strategy
In terms of control strategy, we wanted the heating and hot water integrated into a single interface for the customer so we installed an ATAG smart thermostat system that had multi-zone functionality for controlling hot water and three heating zones: UFH, downstairs radiators, and upstairs radiators.
Boiler & Efficiency Setup
As per the heat loss calculation, we installed an 18kW ATAG system boiler with a low loss header and independent pump groups for the heating circuits. An outdoor sensor was also fitted which meant that each zone could operate with a bespoke, dynamic weather compensated flow temperature and the boiler would only heat to the highest temperature demand, conserving energy, maximising comfort and reliability, and ensuring the condensing boiler condensed as much as possible.
The Result
We are proud of the design because it delivers peak gas boiler and system efficiency, while also being future-proofed for low carbon heat in the future. The central heating is tuned precisely to the property and adapts to the changing outdoor temperature to maintain consistent indoor temperatures throughout.
The hot water is available quickly at all outlets, and it never runs out due to the high-performance hot water cylinder.
The occupants have full time and temperature control of the hot water and heating zones within one intuitive app for phone or tablet, and they also have the ability to alter zone temperatures on the individual wall units if they wish to override the programs. They love the app because the zones are configurable from within a single menu, and it also contains an energy monitor which provides added visibility for them.
We are all confident that every effort has been made to maximise efficiency with the use of efficiency controls, weather compensation, zoning, TRVs and pipework insulation.
Recognition
This project was chosen as Highly Commended by the Heating Installer Awards 2023.
📍 Installed by Option Energy Solutions, proudly serving Sussex and surrounding areas
📞 Call 01903 814777
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