Polypipe Building Products explores how heat pumps supported by efficient system design and components can help developers meet low-carbon targets and futureproof new homes at scale.
Now firmly on the horizon, the Future Homes Standard (FHS) will require all new build homes to be equipped with low-carbon heating systems. This marks a decisive move away from gas-reliant boilers and, instead, towards technologies which will futureproof homes in a push towards a net zero Britain.
Among the most effective technologies are heat pumps which, when installed and maintained correctly, can deliver up to three times the efficiency of traditional gas boilers. However, maximising the benefits of heat pumps requires a holistic, whole-system approach to heating design, ensuring all components work in a coordinated way to guarantee both efficiency and comfort.
Energy efficient design
For housebuilders and developers, heat pumps can provide an effective route to compliance with the FHS whilst also offering homeowners and buyers high performance, low-carbon homes. But, before this can be achieved, successful integration requires careful planning.
Heat pumps operate most effectively at lower flow temperatures (typically between 35-45°C). To best achieve this, systems can be paired with compatible solutions like warm water underfloor heating and low temperature radiators to not only improve energy performance, but also enhance comfort for occupants and owners.
Incorporating appropriate technologies from the initial planning stage minimises the need for retrofitting in the longer term, while also helping homes to remain compliant with ever changing energy regulations. A proactive approach also reduces the likelihood of longer term costs, whilst improving EPC ratings and marketability.
Optimising system efficiency
For heat pumps to operate at peak efficiency, every element of the heating system must minimise energy loss between the external unit and the home. Another key factor that must be considered is selecting quality pipework for installation across the entire system.
Using pre-insulated pipes and fittings can help to preserve a low flow temperature at which heat pumps perform optimally. A high-level, thermal insulation pipe ensures minimal temperature loss from the heat pump unit to the property, enhancing energy efficiency. Additionally, effectively insulated pipework also contributes to improved Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) calculations, allowing developers to meet both Part L and EPC performance targets.
Helping developers transition
As heat pumps look to become the standard in new builds, developers face opportunity as well as responsibility.
Transitioning to low-carbon heating is not only about compliance. Rather, it’s a key opportunity to enhance building quality, reduce operational costs for homeowners, and position residential developments as leading sustainable construction. Undoubtedly, manufacturers of key components like piping have a clear role to play in educating and guiding housebuilders and developers through the transitional period.
Polypipe Building Products supports this transition through providing expert advice and digital resources through its Professional Development Centre. The platform hosts a range of BPEC-accredited courses and CPDs on a variety of key topics including regulatory changes and emerging technologies.
Preparing for a net zero future
The FHS presents a huge step forward in decarbonising the UK’s housing stock. For developers, adopting heat pumps will enable the delivery of homes that are equipped for a low-carbon future – reducing emissions, as well as meeting buyer expectations around energy efficient living.
By adopting sustainable heating technologies and high-performance components like pipes, housebuilders can create homes which can stand the test of time. Ultimately, this will help to create homes which are efficient, FHS compliant and ready for a net zero future.
Article supplied by Polypipe Building Products