Sean Keleher of Navien UK discusses the evolving demands for sustainable heating solutions as new homeowners prioritise energy efficiency and innovative technologies.
In a rapidly evolving energy landscape, the focus on sustainable heating solutions for new build properties has gained significant momentum. Sean Keleher, the technical director at Navien UK, has highlighted the importance of understanding the changing dynamics in the market and the imperative for installers to adapt to these trends to meet both customer expectations and environmental standards.
With rising energy costs impacting homeowner budgets, there is an increasingly urgent demand for enhanced energy efficiency and reduced utility bills. A recent report from Uswitch noted that the average age of first-time buyers has increased to 34, indicating a trend toward more tech-savvy and environmentally aware millennials entering the housing market. This shift is influencing the types of heating solutions that new homeowners are seeking. They are more inclined towards high-efficiency boilers and advanced heating technologies that promise both substantial savings and a diminished carbon footprint.
The heating industry is responding, buoyed by government initiatives aimed at constructing 1.5 million new homes in England over the next five years. This ambitious plan has prompted a renewed focus on sustainable heating practices. The government allocated £3.4 billion in the Chancellor’s first budget towards heat decarbonisation and household energy efficiency, which is set to fund various initiatives including the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and initiatives to bolster the heat pump sector.
Moreover, the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero has initiated a £5.8 million pilot programme in six towns and cities, aiming to establish the first heat network zones in the UK. These zones will utilise innovative technology to repurpose excess heat from data centres and other sources, demonstrating the potential of large-scale smart heating solutions. Selected areas include Leeds, Plymouth, Bristol, Stockport, Sheffield, and two districts in London, where large commercial and public buildings will be the initial beneficiaries, although future expansions may encompass residential properties.
Keleher emphasises that as the demand for sustainable heating systems rises, installers must comprehend the dual pressures of government initiatives and customer expectations. He outlines key considerations for installers when recommending heating solutions for new builds. Notably, he discusses the demand for combi boilers, particularly as new homes increasingly feature multiple bathrooms—leading to heightened expectations for hot water supply. Traditional system boilers, which require more space and additional components, may not always be necessary. Modern combi boilers, like Navien’s NCB700 ON, are capable of efficiently supplying hot water to multiple outlets while conserving space and installation time. This model, in particular, is noted for its ability to deliver domestic hot water to three bathrooms simultaneously and its impressive energy efficiency ratings.
The integration of smart technology into heating systems is another growing trend, with homeowners looking for greater control and insight into their energy consumption. Applications that provide Home Energy Management System (HEMS) reports and other features such as geofencing enhance user experience, allowing homeowners to manage their heating systems remotely. The Navien app, for instance, offers Smart Diagnostics that alert users to potential issues before they escalate, underscoring the advantages of smart integrations.
As the industry trends toward hybrid systems and a greater emphasis on sustainable living environments, Keleher concludes by asserting that the adoption of innovative solutions will define the future of the heating industry. Companies like Navien UK are at the forefront of this transition, providing advanced products like the NCB700 ON boiler and Smart Plus ON AI Controller designed to meet modern energy needs while promoting an energy-conscious lifestyle.
This trajectory not only reflects the current market demands but also positions the heating industry for significant transformation in the coming years as technology and sustainability increasingly converge.
Source: Noah Wire Services
- https://www.renewableenergyhub.co.uk/main/heat-pumps-information/heat-pumps-for-new-builds – Corroborates the government’s initiatives to phase out gas boilers in new homes and the role of heat pumps in meeting the Future Homes Standard.
- https://www.renewableenergyhub.co.uk/main/heat-pumps-information/heat-pumps-for-new-builds – Provides details on the UK government’s plan to reduce carbon emissions by 75-80% in new build properties from 2025.
- https://www.heatingandventilating.net/navien-uk-launches-revolutionary-ai-technology – Supports the integration of smart technology into heating systems, such as Navien’s ON AI and its features like geofencing and Smart Diagnostics.
- https://www.heatingandventilating.net/navien-uk-launches-revolutionary-ai-technology – Explains the benefits of Navien’s ON AI technology, including Home Energy Management System (HEMS) reports and remote management capabilities.
- https://www.watsons-property.co.uk/sustainable-heating-systems-uk-homes-surveyors-guide/ – Discusses the various sustainable heating options available, including heat pumps, and their environmental benefits.
- https://www.watsons-property.co.uk/sustainable-heating-systems-uk-homes-surveyors-guide/ – Provides details on ground and air source heat pumps, their efficiency, and long-term savings.
- https://plumbingmag.com/more-hot-water-less-waste-with-navien-on/ – Explains the benefits of hot water recirculation systems, such as Navien’s NaviCirc™, in reducing water waste and energy consumption.
- https://plumbingmag.com/more-hot-water-less-waste-with-navien-on/ – Describes how modern combi boilers, like Navien’s NCB700 ON, can efficiently supply hot water to multiple outlets.
- https://www.heatingandventilating.net/navien-uk-launches-revolutionary-ai-technology – Highlights Navien’s advanced boiler technology, including the NCB700 ON and Smart Plus ON AI controllers, and their energy efficiency.
- https://www.renewableenergyhub.co.uk/main/heat-pumps-information/heat-pumps-for-new-builds – Mentions the government’s funding initiatives, such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, to support heat decarbonisation and energy efficiency.
- https://www.heatingandventilating.net/navien-uk-launches-revolutionary-ai-technology – Supports the trend towards hybrid systems and the adoption of innovative solutions in the heating industry.
