Heating circulators, also known as central heating pumps, circulate hot water around the central heating system and can help certain heating systems run more effectively. Given the alarming scale of inefficiency across the UK’s building fabric, this technology can play an important role in upgrading the effectiveness of UK homes’ heating systems.
Putting vulnerable people at risk
Over 15 million UK households are energy inefficient; many have old, fixed-speed AC pumps. These are likely to reduce the heating system’s efficiency while also being susceptible to breaking down during the cold months. This can potentially result in additional call-out fees and put vulnerable people at risk.
Additionally, recent estimates have shown that more than 100,000 non-compliant central heating pumps are sold in the UK annually, with significantly reduced efficiency compared to their legal counterparts. Wilo urges installers to consider energy-efficient ‘smart’ products that are properly certified and offer better control of building heating. This, in turn, can provide better insights into how heating systems perform.
Daunting for homeowners
David Williamson, sales and marketing director at Wilo UK, said: “The winters have become increasingly daunting for homeowners over the last few years, and while it was promising to see the Government provide support last year, we cannot guarantee that this will continue.
“It is important that installers protect peoples’ homes through the systems installed within them. Newer, smart products are not only inherently more efficient, but they also give the installer intelligent insights into where they can reduce energy wastage in their heating system, maximising the potential savings for homeowners.”
Avoiding like for like products
David recommends that installers consider their choices when installing a replacement pump. Critically, it is important not to install like-for-like products without considering the long-term benefits to homeowners of better products.
David continued: “There are many cheap products on the market, and the danger is that installers may choose these in an attempt to save the homeowner money. However, the reality is that this short-term saving will cost more in the long run. By picking the right pump, installers can not only aid the fight against rising energy bills but also help property owners save time and expense in the long term.”