Client: Local Property
Location: Devon
Project Outcome: Design and install a new heating system thats fully compatible with a future air source heat pump
Status: Project completed
Heating System Upgrade Case Study – Overview
Following the recent purchase of the house, our client approached Synergi SW to design and install a new heating system. From the outset, the brief was clear: deliver a long-term, efficient solution that would improve comfort immediately while allowing for a straightforward transition to renewable heating in the future.
Although a heat pump was initially considered, the client preferred a phased approach. The system was therefore designed to operate efficiently as a gas-fired installation today, whilst being fully compatible with a future air source heat pump.
Design and Installation Strategy
Rather than carrying out a like-for-like boiler replacement, the project was approached as a full system redesign.
Key objectives included:
- Removal of the existing boiler, hot water cylinder and loft tanks
- Installation of a high-efficiency Worcester Bosch Greenstar 4000 system boiler
- Integration of a 210L high-gain Joule cylinder compatible with low-temperature renewable systems
- Installation of retrofit underfloor heating across the ground floor
- Replacement and resizing of first-floor radiators to operate at a 45°C flow temperature
- Upgrading primary pipework where required
- Installation of modern S-Plan controls with zoned heating
- Full system cleansing and inhibitor protection
The underfloor heating system was designed to provide consistent, low-temperature heat distribution, improving comfort and overall system efficiency. Upstairs emitters were carefully calculated and selected to ensure compatibility with future heat pump operation without requiring wholesale replacement.
Technical Considerations
Designing a system that functions efficiently at lower flow temperatures was central to the project. Radiator outputs were recalculated, pipe sizing reviewed, and hydraulic performance assessed to ensure suitability for both current and future operation.
The 210L cylinder was selected specifically for its heat pump compatibility, ensuring minimal disruption when transitioning to renewable technology.
This forward-thinking design avoids the common scenario of premature system obsolescence, where significant infrastructure upgrades are required at the point of renewable conversion.
Outcome
The completed installation delivers:
- A highly efficient A-rated gas-fired heating system
- Improved thermal comfort via underfloor heating
- Zoned heating control for enhanced usability
- A fully future-ready infrastructure for low-carbon transition
- Long-term manufacturer guarantees and full certification
Crucially, the property is now prepared for the adoption of an air source heat pump with minimal modification required, significantly reducing future installation complexity and cost.
Project Significance
This project demonstrates how transitional system design can bridge the gap between conventional and renewable heating technologies. By adopting a strategic, phased approach, the client benefits from immediate performance improvements while safeguarding the property’s long-term decarbonisation pathway.
It highlights the importance of system design, correct emitter specification, and low-temperature planning when delivering sustainable heating solutions in existing properties.
