Heat pump pioneer Zeuner is repurposing a 20-year-old heat ground loop system in a secondary school in Clydebank – a cost-effective alternative to total replacement.
Heat pumps are an efficient and sustainable heating system that extracts ambient heat from the air or ground, usually last 15-20 years before needing to be replaced, a process which can cost millions, especially in large civic or commercial buildings.
Coventry-based Zeuner offers an alternative – the installation of a tailored solution that updates and optimises the efficiency of existing systems. Zeuner’s experts can assess a system following a consultation and provide replacement components that fit into the existing real estate, even if the original manufacturer has gone out of business or left the UK market.
This bespoke process improves operational efficiency, as heat pump technology improves year-on-year and ensures each property’s individual requirements are met.
For example, the school’s new 350kW ground source system is designed to use the latest environmentally friendly, natural refrigerants and serves a laboratory with precise temperature control. It will also generate the required heating and cooling in an improved manner by operating a heat recovery circuit from the building, resulting in high efficiency outputs, while providing chilled water provision.
Founder Chris Reilly said, “Balancing the layout and design of the existing installation with the school’s specific needs requires we take a tailored, consultative approach. Taking time to scrutinise the existing system and understand the client’s needs.
“This collaborative approach also means we can offer the best solution to meet precise specifications, such as the lab’s pinpoint climate requirements.”
Chris says tailored heat pump solutions can meet any building load requirements, save money, and help fulfil sustainability and CSR obligations. The process is also effective for complex installations and layouts and usually bypasses planning permission requirements.
“Many commercial heat pump installations are approaching end-of-life, but that doesn’t necessarily mean costly replacement,” he adds.
“Building managers need to be aware that there are solutions that can save significant amounts of money, while enhancing the energy efficiency of the existing estate over the long-term.”
