Heat Pumps and Boilers: An FM Future
In meeting its net-zero targets, the government has proposed gradual changes to existing heating systems by 2035 to reach 2050’s targets. Heating the United Kingdom’s 30 million buildings accounts for a quarter of its emissions. This makes changes to existing heating systems a worthwhile focus for environmental change.
The Road to Net-Zero
The Government’s strategy aims to create green skilled jobs, while reducing energy bills and improving building occupants’ comfort in more efficient buildings. The Government’s Heat and Building Strategy includes the move away from gas boilers, with heat pumps and electrification put forward the more desirable solutions for homes and businesses. The Government is also doing trials on hydrogen heating systems.
Plumbers, installers, and engineers play a central role in meeting the milestones of the green agenda. In achieving a smooth transition to energy-efficient alternative systems, the Government has put forward different trigger points such as when existing systems come to the end of their life cycle, new builds, and when there are changes to building occupancy. While skills will be pivotal to the success of these initiatives, so too is innovation – something the Government is embracing in this phased approach to heating systems change.
Criticism of the Strategy
The Net-Zero Strategy has been met with criticism within the industry. The sentiment put forward by the Social Market Foundation, for example is that the Government has not sufficiently incentivised the training and skills development required to replace gas boilers. It has also been raised that Britain is behind many European countries when it comes to the uptake of heat pumps. It has been put forward that this is due to the traditional British building approach – one that creates real challenges around retrofitting heat pumps (often in buildings with poor insulation).
The Issues With Legacy Systems
While new buildings can be designed for the future, legacy systems present challenges for change. While 86% of homes run on natural gas heating, the number is significantly lower in the commercial and industrial space. The type of energy is the first consideration in making green changes, alongside – very importantly – thermal efficiency and insulation. These systems and the rising cost of energy are also of vital consideration for both individuals and businesses.
Energy-Savvy Facilities Maintenance
Working with the right facilities maintenance specialists presents both easy gains and an expert roadmap for environmental changes. In its most basic form, a preventative maintenance schedule conducted by maintenance professionals keeps equipment and machinery operating as energy efficiently as possible.
At Voltix Services, we combine extensive, evolving skills and expertise with the latest technologies to serve the needs of our clients – whether they are looking for engineers and installers on their new builds or for an existing building. Our services combine energy efficiency assessments and benchmarking, integrated energy systems that support the move to renewable energy sources, thermal insulation services, LED lighting, smart metering, and the use of smart technologies – comprehensive tools for change.
Work With Top Accredited Facilities Maintenance Specialists at Voltix Services
Contact Voltix Services today and one of our maintenance specialists will work with you to devise the best and most cost-effective strategies for heating systems and energy efficiency.