At IRS, we are proud to showcase one of our successful projects for Balfour Beatty, where we played a pivotal role in replacing outdated gas boilers with energy-efficient heat pump technology at the Severn Trent Water Plant in Coleshill.
At IRS, we are proud to showcase one of our successful projects for Balfour Beatty, where we played a pivotal role in replacing outdated gas boilers with energy-efficient heat pump technology at the Severn Trent Water Plant in Coleshill. The project, valued at £56,891, was essential for ensuring a sustainable and effective heating solution for their lab offices, especially considering the disruption caused by HS2 construction works.
With the ongoing HS2 construction project, the gas pipe feeding the Severn Trent Water Plant's lab offices was being removed, prompting the need for a new, efficient heating solution. The goal was to replace the traditional gas boiler system with modern heat pump technology that would meet the building's heating demands while being energy-efficient and sustainable.
Unlike conventional gas boilers, heat pumps operate by extracting heat from the air or ground, making them an eco-friendly alternative. However, transitioning from gas boilers to heat pumps isn't a straightforward process. This is where our expertise came in. By understanding the unique needs of the building and carefully assessing the limitations of the current setup, we were able to design a customised heating solution tailored specifically for the Severn Trent Water Plant.
The Challenge:Heat pumps have different sizing requirements compared to gas boilers. It is crucial to ensure the heat pump is properly sized to match the building’s heating load, as an incorrect size can lead to inefficiency and performance issues.
Our Solution:We carried out a detailed heat load calculation to determine the exact heating requirements of the building. By consulting with Mitsubishi Electric and Ignis, we ensured that the selected air source heat pump was the perfect fit for the application, delivering reliable and consistent heating performance.
The Challenge:The existing radiators in the building were not designed for the lower water temperatures provided by heat pumps, which posed a risk of insufficient heat distribution.
Our Solution:We thoroughly evaluated the compatibility of the existing radiator system with the new heat pump technology. Identifying certain areas with inadequate heat output, we redesigned the heating system by increasing the radiator footprint and modifying the pipe sizes to ensure higher flow rates, thereby improving heat distribution throughout the space.
The Challenge:In certain areas of the building, increasing the radiator size and pipework wasn’t feasible due to space limitations. This could potentially result in inadequate heating capacity for these critical spaces.
Our Solution:To tackle this issue, we proposed the installation of heat pump air conditioning systems in specific areas that required additional cooling and heating capacity. We also carried out a running cost analysis to ensure the solution aligned with the initial energy savings projections. Furthermore, we highlighted the added benefits of cooling during warmer months, making this solution even more attractive to Severn Trent Water.
The Challenge:The existing boilers and pipework were situated at a high level with limited access, making installation difficult. Additionally, the long refrigeration pipe run raised concerns about potential temperature drops, which could affect the heat pump's efficiency.
Our Solution:We recommended the installation of a low-loss header to maintain a secondary heating loop within the building. This solution reduced the internal pipe run, alleviating concerns about temperature loss and ensuring optimal efficiency for the new heat pump system.
We partnered with Mitsubishi Electric to provide state-of-the-art heat pump systems. These units are known for their energy efficiency and reliable performance, making them the ideal choice for this high-demand project. The integration of Mitsubishi Electric’s heat pumps helped Severn Trent Water not only save on energy costs but also reduce their carbon footprint, contributing to their commitment to sustainability.
Our team designed a bespoke control network that seamlessly integrated the new air conditioning and heat pump systems. This custom-built network allows for easy monitoring and control, ensuring optimal performance and maximum energy efficiency throughout the building.
By replacing the outdated gas boiler system with advanced heat pump technology, IRS delivered a tailored heating solution that meets the unique needs of Severn Trent Water Plant. The project addressed key challenges such as system compatibility, heat load accuracy, and installation limitations, all while providing an eco-friendly and cost-effective heating solution.
With our extensive experience and expertise in energy-efficient heating systems, IRS is proud to have been a part of this successful project for Balfour Beatty. If you're looking to upgrade your heating system to more sustainable and efficient technologies, we are here to help.
Ready to make the switch to a more efficient and sustainable heating solution? Contact IRS today to discuss how we can help optimise your heating system with cutting-edge technologies like heat pumps. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the best solutions tailored to your specific needs. Reach out now for a consultation!
