Regional Winners

Please tell us about a project you are particularly proud of – what was the problem and how did you solve it for the customer?

In undertaking the air source heat pump project for our 15-year-old, self-built family home, my proudest achievement was optimising the system for efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Initially faced with oversized units and incorrect pipe sizing leading to exorbitant bills, our focus centred on relocating units for a shorter run to the plant room, minimising energy waste. Resizing all pipework to align with the correct delta temperature and flow rates proved crucial in enhancing the system’s overall performance.

The challenges were heightened due to the unique circumstances of the large, three-story, 400sqm property, especially with a disabled son relying on consistent heat and hot water – due to his condition, they were required to keep the house warm at 22 degrees, which resulted in massive energy bills. A pivotal step in this project was conducting a comprehensive heat loss survey. Using sensors strategically placed throughout the property for three weeks, we meticulously monitored and analysed data to precisely determine the heat loss at peak demand. This data-driven approach allowed us to tailor the system to the specific needs of the home, ensuring optimal efficiency.

Ultimately, our solution involved the implementation of two Steibel Eltron units in cascade. This configuration not only addressed the initial issues but also provided a robust and reliable heating and hot water solution for our family. The careful planning, adjustments and attention to detail not only resolved the problems at hand but significantly reduced monthly bills and running costs. In retrospect, this project showcased the importance of adaptability and problem-solving. It highlighted the necessity of understanding the intricacies of the home’s unique requirements, especially with a disabled family member. The successful outcome, marked by increased efficiency and reduced operating expenses, underscores the impact of a well-executed air source heat pump system tailored to the specific needs of a household.

The units that were in there beforehand were heavily oversized, the actual pipework was massively undersized. Forever the unit was running on and off. Ridiculous energy bills 12kw oversized, correctly sized the units, moved closer to the house, reduced the heat pumps by 12kw. 22 degrees running 380% massively reduced bills, right

Which products did you select for the job and why?

Utilising Build Test Solutions sensors in our home marked a significant leap in customising our heating system to meet our precise needs. With a desire for a warmer home than the conventional norm, the sensors allowed us to collaboratively explore different scenarios with the provider, fine-tuning heat loss and internal temperatures to match our specific requirements. This level of customisation ensured a comfortable living environment tailored to our family setup.

Opting for Stiebel Eltron products further enhanced our heating solution. These units provided the convenience of remote monitoring, enabling real-time adjustments as needed. The ability to remotely assess and modify the system not only added a layer of convenience but also facilitated ongoing feedback about the system’s performance. Additionally, the system flagged early signs of potential issues, enabling proactive measures to be taken, ensuring a seamless supply of heating and hot water. This was crucial in preventing disruptions and maintaining the comfort of our family.

The inclusion of emergency backup heaters in the Stiebel Eltron units was a noteworthy feature. This ensured a fail-safe mechanism to keep our family warm and comfortable, even in unforeseen circumstances. The emphasis on reliability and continuity of service demonstrated the commitment of both the main manufacturers used, Build Test Solutions and and Stiebel Eltron to, meant we could ensure the family’s wellbeing.

The decision to choose Stiebel Eltron was also influenced by its status as a high-performing premium product with national coverage and support. This factor provided an additional layer of assurance, knowing that we had access to reliable support and assistance if needed. The comprehensive support network was a unique selling point, contributing to our confidence in the long-term performance of the chosen system.

Furthermore, the conscious decision to source products from local merchants reflected a commitment to supporting similar small businesses. This not only strengthened local economies but also fostered a sense of community and collaboration. The choice to prioritise local businesses added a meaningful dimension to the project, aligning with values of sustainability and community engagement. In summary, the integration of Build Test Solutions sensors and Stiebel Eltron products not only allowed us to tailor our heating system precisely but also provided advanced monitoring, reliability features, and a support network that ensured the long-term comfort and wellbeing of our family. The project showcased a holistic approach, combining cutting-edge technology with a commitment to local businesses and community support.

Tell us what was different or unique about this job? Why does it stand out?

What set this job apart was the exceptional rapport and connection we established with the client. This foundation of trust allowed for meticulous planning and execution, ensuring a well-paced and organised project. The absence of haste or disorganisation contributed to the overall success of the endeavour. A distinctive aspect of this project was the incorporation of various technologies, combining scientific principles with engineering judgement and experience.

This allowed for a comprehensive and innovative approach, showcasing the versatility and adaptability of our team. The involvement of the manufacturer, Stiebel Eltron, added another layer of support and reassurance. Their commitment was evident as they went beyond by visiting the site and directly engaging with the customer. This personalised touch not only showcased the product but also provided the customer with peace of mind, solidifying their confidence in the entire project. Having a blank canvas and a fair-sized plant room offered a unique advantage. It allowed us to plan the installation not only for immediate functionality but also with an eye on future maintenance requirements.

This forward-thinking approach ensured that the project not only met current needs but was also designed to be sustainable and easily maintained in the long run. In essence, the success of this job was attributed to the strong client relationship, meticulous planning and the integration of diverse technologies. The collaborative effort between our team, the client and the support from the manufacturer, Stiebel Eltron, resulted in a well-executed project that not only met but exceeded expectations.

And finally, tell us what the end result was for your customer?

The culmination of our efforts is a system that now operates at double the efficiency compared to its predecessor. The previous system, with a seasonal coefficient of performance (SCOP) of 1.8, has been significantly upgraded, reaching an impressive 4.2 for heating and 4 for hot water. This translates to a remarkable 420% efficiency improvement. In practical terms, for every 1 kilowatt-hour of electricity the customer purchases, we are now delivering an additional 3.2 kilowatts of heat, a feat that underscores the success of the project.

The impact of this efficiency enhancement extends beyond technical achievements – it translates into substantial cost savings for the customer on a monthly basis. The increased efficiency means that the system utilises electricity more judiciously, extracting more heat energy from each unit of power consumed. This transformative result not only aligns with environmental sustainability goals but also contributes significantly to the economic wellbeing of the customer.

The financial benefits derived from the enhanced system efficiency are indeed substantial. The customer now experiences a considerable reduction in monthly expenses, thanks to the optimised performance of the heating and hot water system. This not only underscores the success of the project in meeting its efficiency goals but also demonstrates the tangible, real-world impact on the customer’s bottom line. In essence, the end result is not just a numerical improvement in efficiency but a tangible and meaningful enhancement in the customer’s daily life. The financial savings coupled with the environmental benefits underscore the effectiveness of the undertaken measures, marking this project as a resounding success in delivering both technical excellence and practical advantages for the homeowner.