When it comes to upgrading a heating system, correct sizing of the technologies used is vital to ensure the system runs efficiently. Sizing requirements are based on the heat load requirements for each room in a property and these calculations can also determine the best suited technologies for the project.
Basic upgrades for oil boiler systems may include replacing the boiler with a new condensing oil boiler, or as part of a deep retrofit the upgrade may include installation of an air to water, air source heat pump as the main heat source.
For an oil boiler replacement, a plumber or installer will calculate the correct size of system required, however if the upgrade involves a heat pump, then full heat loss calculations in line with SR:50 requirements are recommended. These calculations can be provided free of charge by the technical specialists at Grant, who in addition to providing the heat load requirement for each room which helps them to calculate the output of the air to water, air source heat pump, will also correctly size complimentary technologies including hot water cylinders, radiators, and underfloor heating.
A common misconception is that a bigger main heat source results in a more effective heating system, which is untrue. A heating system that has not been sized in line with a property’s requirements is most likely to produce inconsistent heat using more energy, leading to increased heating costs, reduced efficiency, potential maintenance issues and the heating system not living up to expectations.
When upgrading an old boiler, it is important to consider the age of the current system and the property’s structural and aesthetic features before deciding on the size of the new heat source and complementary technologies. In addition, considerations should be made around ensuring the property is future-proofed for changing heating needs.
Product Spotlight: The biofuel compatible Grant Vortex condensing boiler range
Biofuel compatible Grant Vortex range
Over the past six years the Grant R&D team has worked with third level institutions, industry partners and renewable fuel producers, focusing on more sustainable and carbon saving fuels and innovating its boilers to be biofuel compatible. This means Grant’s award-winning Vortex boiler range can now run using 100% biofuel known as Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO).
The Vortex range consists of 63 models in outputs of 12-70kW, including boiler house, outdoor, utility and wall hung variants. All new Grant condensing boilers are future proofed to use biofuel through making a slight modification to the boiler. Older Grant condensing boilers can also be adapted to use biofuel – the modifications required can be carried out by a service engineer during an annual service.
By installing a biofuel compatible boiler, properties can be future-proofed for their changing heating needs and helping to move towards a low carbon future.
Visit www.grant.eu for more information on Grant’s range of innovative heating solutions. Follow Grant on Facebook and Twitter @GrantIRL or Instagram @Grant_IRL.
Think Heating. Think Grant.