When people hear air-to-air heat pumps, they often think of one thing: air conditioning.
But the reality is these systems are one of the most versatile, efficient and flexible home comfort solutions available – and they work all year round.

At Gregor Renewables, we install air-to-air heat pumps in homes across Bristol and Bath, and many homeowners are surprised by just how much they can do.

What is an Air-to-Air Heat Pump?

An air-to-air heat pump transfers heat from outside air to inside your home (and vice versa). It works alongside your existing heating system, so it doesn’t matter what you already have installed  – gas boiler, oil, electric or heat pump, and most houses and flats are suitable.

If a home isn’t suitable, we’ll always tell you honestly. No pressure, no upselling, just straightforward advice.

Cooling: Comfortable Homes During British Summers

We all know our summers are getting hotter, and when a heatwave hits, homes can become uncomfortable fast. Which can cause problems when working from home or sleeping at night.

Air-to-air heat pumps allow you to:

• Keep key rooms cool and comfortable
• Escape the worst of the heat during the day
• Sleep better at night with cooler bedrooms
• Keep pets safe and comfortable while you’re out at work

Got solar panels?
When paired with solar PV, running costs during high-generation periods can be very low, sometimes close to nothing.

Heating: Smart, Efficient Warmth in Colder Months

Air-to-air heat pumps aren’t just for summer, they’re incredibly useful in winter too.

Homeowners love them because they:

• Heat individual rooms without firing up the whole house
• Warm spaces quickly thanks to fast-reacting technology
• Provide a reliable backup heat source if your central heating fails

All making them ideal for home offices, bedrooms, extensions or garden rooms.

They give you flexibility, comfort and peace of mind all year round.

And that’s not all…

Fan Mode: Fresh, Balanced Air

Sometimes you don’t need heating or cooling,  just better air movement.

When you use the fan mode it:

• Circulates air to keep rooms feeling fresh
• Helps balance temperatures throughout the space
• Improves comfort without additional energy use.

De-humidifier Mode: Quietly Solving Everyday Problems

Air-to-air heat pumps also act as powerful de-humidifiers, helping tackle common UK household issues.

Perfect if you struggle with:

• Condensation on windows
• Drying washing indoors during winter
• Damp or mould-prone rooms

By removing excess moisture from the air, these systems help create a healthier, more comfortable home, especially during long, wet winters.

How much do they cost?

A basic single room unit starts at £1500 – depending on the style you want and the scope of the job. Running costs vary depending on what you’re using it for, but they have the same efficiency ranges as air to water heat pumps of around 300%

Honest Advice from a Local Team You Can Trust

We’re proud of the standard of our work and passionate about doing things properly. Every system we install is:

• Designed correctly — never rushed or oversized
• Installed by our own local, in-house engineers
• Fitted neatly, with respect for your home
• Fully explained, with ongoing support you can rely on

Whether you need one unit or multiple, we’ll design a system that suits your home, your budget and how you actually live in it.

Is an Air-to-Air Heat Pump Right for You?

If you’re thinking about a smarter way to heat, cool and control your home, air-to-air heat pumps are well worth considering.

Get in touch to discuss your options — no obligation, just honest advice from a team who care.

Call 0117 935 2400 or 01225 738 397 and ask to speak to our Renewables team.

Planning ahead now means you’re ready before the first heatwave arrives!

The post What You Don’t Know About Air-to-Air Heat Pumps appeared first on Gregor Heating, Electrical & Renewable Energy.

Purchasing a new boiler, heat pump, solar thermal system, or solar panels with battery storage is one way of doing this. A new product offers cutting edge technology and greater efficiently, and is a big investment, one you would have spent a while considering.

It’s a big step towards a more efficient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective home. And with your new product running so smoothly from the outset, it can be tempting to let things run untouched for a few years. Afterall, you don’t want another expense!

We look at this differently, we recommend servicing from the outset – stay with us! Here’s why.

Protect Your Investment

Heating and renewable energy systems are complex, and, like any high-performance equipment, they need regular attention to keep performing at their best. Servicing helps to:

• Maintain efficiency – keeping your system in top condition saves energy and lowers running costs.
• Prevent breakdowns – spotting small issues early helps avoid unexpected (and expensive) failures later.
• Prolong system life – regular maintenance extends the lifespan of your equipment.
• Ensure safety – safety checks are vital, particularly for gas appliances, to guard against risks like carbon monoxide.
• Keep warranties valid – most manufacturers require annual servicing to maintain the warranty.

How Often Should You Service Your System?

Here’s our recommended schedule:

• Boilers – Annually. It’s essential for safety, efficiency, and warranty compliance, especially before winter.
• Heat Pumps – Every year. Ensures your system runs efficiently in all seasons.
• Solar Thermal Systems – Checked every year to maintain efficiency and prevent costly damage, with a fluid top-up/replacement every three to five years.
• Solar PV & Battery Storage – A health check every 1–2 years keeps performance and safety on track.

Why Gregor?

We’ve been a trusted name across Bristol, Bath, and the Southwest for over 35 years. With Gregor Heating and Renewables, you’re not just getting a service, you’re getting the backing of a team that genuinely cares about keeping your home warm, efficient, and running smoothly.

Here’s why customers choose us year after year:

We’re a Which? Trusted Trader

This means we’ve passed a rigorous assessment and adhere to the high standards set by one of the UK’s most respected consumer organisations. We were also recently awarded Which? Trusted Trader of the month for July 2025. It’s your reassurance that we’re committed to honest, high-quality service every time.

MCS Approved Installer

We’re certified under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme, which means our work on renewable technologies (like heat pumps and solar systems) meets government-backed industry standards.

Local expertise

Our team of engineers are experienced, friendly, and responsive, backed by decades of local trust.

Servicing for all systems

From gas boilers to advanced renewable technologies, we’ve got the skills to service it all. We can service and maintain your Air Source Heat Pump, Ground Source Heat Pump and Solar Thermal Systems. The team can service all leading makes and models including Daikin, Mitsubishi and Vaillant.

Ask About Heat:Plan – Simple, Reliable Boiler Care

For boiler owners, we offer Heat:Plan, a convenient monthly plan that covers your annual boiler servicing and gives you peace of mind all year round. With Heat:Plan, you get:

• Your annual service included
• Priority breakdown response
• General Plumbing Jobs
• Access to our local, responsive team
• Fixed monthly payments – so there are no surprises

It’s the hassle-free way to keep your boiler running efficiently and reliably.

Our advice is to always be prepared! Don’t wait for something to go wrong. Protect your investment, your comfort, and your peace of mind, and your wallet with regular servicing from Gregor Heating and Renewables.

Contact us today to book your service or find out more about Heat:Plan and our renewable system support.

The post Why Servicing Your Heating & Renewable Systems Matters – And Why Gregor Should Be Your First Call appeared first on Gregor Heating, Electrical & Renewable Energy.

As energy costs continue to rise and environmental concerns grow, forward thinking UK businesses are increasingly turning to renewable energy solutions to reduce expenses and enhance sustainability. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by installing solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and energy storage solutions.

At Gregor Renewables, we’ve helped businesses transition to a more environmentally friendly energy solution resulting in not only financial savings, but energy security, and a whole host of other benefits. Read on to find out the potential benefits for your business.

Cut Energy Bills and Reduce Operational Costs

Simply put, installing solar PV panels allows businesses to generate their own electricity, significantly reducing reliance on the National Grid. This leads to lower energy bills and protection against unpredictable energy price increases. By producing your own energy, your business can enjoy long-term savings and increased financial stability. By adding in one of our solar energy storage batteries you can also capture and store excess solar energy and use it when you do need it – think a sunny weekend when you are closed!

Offset National Insurance and Business Rates Increases

With recent increases in National Insurance contributions and business rates, companies are facing higher operational costs than before, which is having a real impact, especially on small and medium sized businesses. Investing in solar PV can help offset these rising expenses by reducing your energy spend and taking advantage of government incentives. Additionally, commercial properties with renewable energy installations may benefit from business rates exemptions, further easing financial pressures.

Government Incentives and Tax Benefits

The UK government offers several financial incentives to encourage the adoption of renewable energy, making solar PV an even more attractive investment:

• Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): Businesses can earn money by selling excess electricity back to the grid, creating an additional revenue stream. You can find out more about that here:
• VAT Reduction: Solar PV installations benefit from a 0% VAT rate (valid until the end of March 2027), reducing initial installation costs.
• Business Rates Exemption: The removal of business rates on green technologies, including solar panels, enhances the financial benefits of solar investment.

Legal and Policy Context: Moving Toward Net Zero

While there is currently no blanket legal requirement for all UK businesses to be carbon neutral, there is growing pressure from both government policy and market expectations. The UK Government has committed to reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050, and this target influences regulatory and financial frameworks. Larger businesses are already subject to environmental reporting obligations such as the Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) and Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS). By installing solar PV now, you are on the front foot in case policies change and are moving towards business expectations in terms of reducing your carbon footprint.

Companies that move proactively toward carbon neutrality often gain competitive advantages, particularly in supply chains, public procurement, and investor relations. Installing solar PV is a sure step businesses can take to align with national goals and stakeholder expectations.

Improve Energy Independence and Stability

If the last few years are anything to go by – global uncertainty is becoming the norm!  Generating your own electricity provides greater energy security and reduces dependency on external suppliers. This protects businesses from energy price volatility and supply chain disruptions, ensuring more predictable budgeting and operational planning.

Enhance Corporate Social Responsibility and Brand Image

Switching to solar energy demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and reducing your company’s carbon footprint. Not only does this align with corporate social responsibility goals, it also strengthens your brands reputation, attracting environmentally conscious customers, investors, and partners.

Increase Property Value and Attractiveness

Installing solar PV can enhance the value of commercial properties by making them more energy-efficient and cost-effective to operate. Businesses that own their premises can benefit from increased asset value, while tenants can enjoy lower utility costs, making solar-equipped properties more attractive.

How to fund your Solar PV Project

You’ve seen the benefits of installing Solar PV, but how do you fund it? The good news is, there are many financial incentives which aim to reduce the financial barriers for businesses looking to adopt solar energy. This is a constantly changing market so it’s worth doing your research.

• Barclays Green Loans for Business: Offers discounted interest rates for businesses investing in eligible green assets, such as solar panels. They also provide green commercial mortgages for energy-efficient buildings with an EPC rating of B or above. 
• NatWest Green Loans: Aims to help eligible UK businesses finance assets like solar panels, electric vehicles, or heat pumps on commercial premises.
• Co-operative Bank Renewable Energy Funding Scheme: Provides up to 100% loan funding for renewable energy projects, including solar panel installations, to improve business sustainability and energy efficiency.
• Commercial Green Grants: There are some grants available for businesses – all with their own criteria. In the West of England, small and medium sized business and organisations can apply to West of England Growth Hub before the end of 2025.
• You can also search here on the gov.uk website.

• Green Loans for Business: Many leading banks are offering loans to eligible UK businesses for assets like solar panels, electric vehicles, and heat pumps, subject to eligibility.

As you can see, the installation of solar PV systems offers UK businesses a range of benefits, from significant cost savings and government incentives to enhanced brand reputation and energy independence. At Gregor Renewables, we’ve been advising on and installing solar PVs for almost 20 years. We will work with you to design and installing a bespoke solar solution tailored to your business needs.

Contact us today to discover how solar PV can benefit your business and take the next step toward a more sustainable and cost-effective future.

renewables@gregorheating.co.uk

The post The Benefits of Installing Solar PV for UK Businesses appeared first on Gregor Heating, Electrical & Renewable Energy.

In recent developments within the UK’s energy policy landscape, the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) has been pivotal in orchestrating discussions on Sustainable Investment (SI) changes. One of the most significant shifts highlighted in Ofgem’s BUS (Boiler Upgrade Scheme) Forum is the transition from mandatory insulation measures to recommended ones – more specifically, they have removed the requirement for an EPC to have cavity wall and loft insulation as a requirement. Instead they have put the onus on the Installer to advise on loft and cavity wall insulation as the best course of action in order to reduce energy and running costs.

This somewhat controversial change marks a substantial policy evolution, bringing both opportunities and challenges for homeowners, policymakers, and the renewable energy sector.

The Policy Shift: From Mandatory to Recommended Insulation

Historically, the UK’s energy efficiency policies mandated specific insulation measures for residential properties. This approach ensured that homes were adequately insulated, reducing heat loss and, consequently, the energy required for heating. However, the new policy direction, as discussed in the BUS Forum, suggests a move towards recommending rather than mandating these measures.

Reasons Behind the Shift

1. Flexibility for Homeowners: By recommending rather than mandating insulation measures, homeowners have greater flexibility to choose solutions that best suit their individual circumstances. This approach respects the diverse nature of the UK housing stock, which varies widely in age, construction type, and current energy efficiency levels.

2. Encouraging Innovation: A recommendation-based approach can stimulate innovation in the energy efficiency market. Homeowners and developers might explore a broader range of insulation technologies and materials that might not have been considered under a strict regulatory framework.

3. Policy Alignment: This shift aligns with broader policy trends focusing on advisory and supportive measures rather than prescriptive mandates. It aims to empower individuals to make informed decisions rather than imposing blanket solutions.

Potential Implications of the Transition

Increased Costs Due to Larger Heat Pumps

One of the critical concerns raised at the BUS Forum is the potential for increased costs associated with this policy shift. The insulation of a home is crucial in minimizing heat loss. Without mandatory insulation, there is a risk that some homes may not achieve optimal insulation levels. Consequently, to maintain comfort and energy efficiency, larger and more powerful heat pumps might be required to compensate for the higher heat loss.

The Cost Dynamics

1. Upfront Investment: Larger heat pumps come with a higher upfront cost. For many homeowners, this could represent a significant financial burden, particularly when combined with other energy efficiency upgrades.

2. Operational Costs: Bigger heat pumps generally consume more electricity, leading to higher operational costs. This scenario could potentially offset the benefits gained from using renewable energy sources, such as heat pumps.

3. Long-term Savings: While the initial costs might be higher, properly sized heat pumps paired with adequate insulation (even if not mandatory) can result in long-term savings. The challenge lies in ensuring that homeowners understand and are willing to make this investment.

The Role of Education and Incentives

To mitigate these potential cost increases, the forum emphasized the importance of education and financial incentives:

1. Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating homeowners on the importance of proper insulation and the long-term financial and environmental benefits can drive voluntary compliance with recommended measures.

2. Incentive Programs: Financial incentives, such as grants, loans, or tax rebates, can help offset the higher initial costs of larger heat pumps and additional insulation. These programs can make energy efficiency upgrades more accessible and appealing.

3. Technical Support: Providing technical support and guidance to homeowners can ensure that they make informed decisions about the best insulation and heating solutions for their homes.

The transition from mandatory to recommended insulation measures marks a significant shift in the UK’s approach to energy efficiency. While this change offers greater flexibility and encourages innovation, it also presents challenges, particularly in terms of potential increased costs for homeowners in order to reach the requirements to pass their EPC.

However, with the right mix of education, incentives, and support, we believe this policy shift can still achieve its goals of improving energy efficiency, reducing carbon emissions, and ensuring comfortable living conditions for all UK residents.

The discussions at Ofgem’s BUS Forum have laid the groundwork for addressing these challenges and leveraging the opportunities presented by this new policy direction. Gregor are committed to supporting homeowners transitioning to an energy efficient home and a more sustainable energy solution. You can trust that our team will always prioritize transparency and recommend solutions that best suit your needs.

We believe that as the UK continues to strive for a sustainable future, these evolving policies and their implementations will be crucial in shaping the nation’s energy landscape and at Gregor we aim to stay ahead of the game so we can support homeowners as we have been doing so for over 30 years.

The post Considering a Heat Pump? Don’t be Mis-sold! Key Changes from Ofgem’s BUS Forum on Insulation Measures and What You Need to Know. appeared first on Gregor Heating, Electrical & Renewable Energy.

With energy costs predicted to rise again in 2024, coupled with the urgency to embrace sustainable living, more and more home owners are looking at sustainable and more affordable ways to power and heat their homes.

In theory, as more renewable energy connects to the grid, it should reduce our reliance on gas-fired power plants, meaning energy prices will begin to fall. So by turning to renewables, you are not only helping yourself, you are helping the planet and everyone else – it’s a win-win!

The UK, in particular, is witnessing a revolution in the way homes are heated. According to recent data, more British households are installing heat pumps and solar panels than ever before, with a 62% jump compared to last year. Over 120,000 certified solar panels, heat pumps, and other renewable technologies were installed in UK homes during the first 6 months of the year, the highest number ever by this point in the year

In this blog, we’ll explore the latest trends in renewable heating, highlighting the role of Tesla, solar panels, heat pumps, and schemes designed to assist homeowners in making the switch to eco-friendly alternatives.

Tesla’s Powerwall and Powerpack: Revolutionizing Energy Storage:

Tesla, renowned for its electric vehicles, has made significant strides in the renewable energy sector with its Powerwall and Powerpack systems. These innovative solutions are designed to store excess energy generated by solar panels during the day, allowing homeowners to harness it when the sun isn’t shining. By integrating Tesla’s energy storage solutions into homes, residents can enjoy a consistent and sustainable source of power even during cloudy days or at night.

Harnessing Solar Power with Advanced Solar Panels:

Solar panels have long been a staple of renewable energy, but recent advancements have elevated their efficiency and affordability. In 2024, homeowners can expect to see more advanced solar panels with improved energy conversion rates. These sleek, high-tech panels not only generate more electricity but also blend seamlessly into the architecture of homes. As the cost of solar technology continues to decrease, more homeowners are finding it financially viable to invest in solar solutions for their heating needs.

The Rise of Heat Pumps: Efficient and Environmentally Friendly:

Heat pumps have gained popularity as an efficient and environmentally friendly heating solution. By extracting heat from the air or ground, heat pumps provide a sustainable alternative to traditional heating systems. In 2024, we can anticipate even more sophisticated heat pump technology that enhances energy efficiency and reduces carbon footprints. Some models will come equipped with smart features, allowing homeowners to optimize their heating systems for maximum comfort and energy savings.

Government Schemes Making Renewable Heating Accessible:

Recognizing the importance of transitioning to renewable heating, the UK government had introduced various schemes to incentivize homeowners. However, a few of these scheme’s were removed this year.

For the elderly, those on low incomes or benefits, there is help available to make your home more energy efficient, and help towards energy bills.

If you’re off the main gas grid, on low income and have an energy performance certificate (EPC) rating from D to G, you might be eligible for a home upgrade grant (HUG). This could include energy efficiency measures such as wall, loft and underfloor insulation, installation of heat pumps, solar panels, double glazing, low energy lighting and electric storage heaters. It’s only available to certain postcodes in England, and you need to apply through your local council. Contact your local authority to see if you’re eligible and find what’s available in your area.

For those of you in England or Wales who want to move over to renewable technologies, you could get £7,500 towards the cost of replacing your existing gas, oil or electric boiler with a heat pump or biomass boiler. You should be eligible providing you own the property. You don’t need to apply to get the scheme, your chosen installer will apply on your behalf – though make sure you choose an installer certified by the Microgeneration Certification Service (MCS).

We are hoping more help will become available in 2024, there is a government consultation in progress to offer help to people to move over to heat pumps with a grant of up to £6000. This would make heat pump installations more affordable for even more households and small businesses, enabling them to benefit from low-cost and low-carbon heating.

It’s clear that the landscape of home heating in the UK is undergoing a transformation, with technology and government initiatives aligning to promote sustainability. We hope this continues and we will keep adding to our offers as the technology becomes available.

As we continue to prioritise environmental responsibility, these innovations in renewable heating mark a significant step toward a greener and more sustainable future.

Choosing Gregor for your Renewable Heating and Energy Solutions

Gregor is MCS certified and our renewable experts have been advising on, installing and servicing the latest renewable technologies for homes in and around Bristol and Bath for 15 years. We can help you understand and assess the suitability of the range of renewable technologies that are available – including but not limited to:

• Heat Pumps
• Solar Photovoltaic Panels
• Solar Thermal Energy
• Car Chargers
• Electricity Storage Solutions
• Underfloor Heating

Get in touch for a consultation today.

The post Looking Towards 2024 and the Future of Renewable Energy Solutions appeared first on Gregor Heating, Electrical & Renewable Energy.

There are many advantages of the Tesla Powerwall 2 Battery. These include:

• Environmentally responsible renewable energy storage solution
• Flexible off-peak energy storage and consumption solution
• Customisable grid power outage back-up solution
• High energy storage capacity and power output
• Long lifespan at close to peak efficiency
• Low total lifetime cost per kW compared with alternative systems
• The system is stackable allowing multiple Powerwall’s to be connected.
• Quiet operation – emits less than 40 dBA at a distance of 1 metre
• Settings are manageable from your mobile device using the Tesla Mobile App
• Can be sited indoors or outdoors
• Thermally maintained – battery continuously adapts to a very wide range of ambient temperatures to ensure efficient operation and long life
• Sleek, modern, space-saving design
• Market-leading brand from the world leaders in battery development

Another fantastic benefit of these batteries, is you can use a Tesla Powerwall as a standalone product with no Solar PV. 

The advantage of this is, you can make the most of your energy providers off-peak tariff, charging your battery from the mains during off-peak rates and then use this power in the day when the rates are higher. Subject to tariffs and authorisation from the DNO, energy can also be sold back to the grid and a Feed in Tariff received.

As you can see, there are many benefits to installing the Tesla Powerwall in your home and taking the first steps towards a sustainable future. As these products become more popular, there will be more affordable options coming to market.

Gregor are passionate about renewable energy solutions. We are certified installers for/of Tesla battery packs and alternatives such as the SolarEdge Home Hub systems which offer Solar PV and Battery storage; GivEnergy Hybrid and AC Coupled Systems; the SolaX Hybrid and AC Coupled Systems; the Viridian In-Roof Solar PV Systems, and the MyEnergi – EV car chargers and Hot Water Diverters.

If you are considering renewable systems such as solar panels and battery packs and would like to talk about which product would be best for your home, get in touch to speak with us.

The post Revolutionizing Renewable Energy – The Power of Battery Storage appeared first on Gregor Heating, Electrical & Renewable Energy.

Solar PV

As one of the most tried and tested technologies around Solar PV is a safe bet.

First to deal with a little urban myth. The hotter the day the greater the performance, right?

Wrong.

Did you know that an air temperature of between 18 and 22 degrees range is optimum for Solar PV. Anything hotter than that and you really won’t get maximum performance from them.

At high temperatures they, in fact, generate their own energy shield to protect from temperatures over 30 degrees so don’t work efficiently in really hot weather at all.

Another common misconception is PV can run heat during winter months but it can’t although this is where storage options such as batteries come into their own.

That said, it still is a sensible choice to consider solar panels. Let’s face it if our winters are getting milder, during the lighter, better days the generation from panels is going to increase compared to even 10 years ago.

On a clear, sunny, warm day the average 3KW system will generate 3KW or operate at maximum capacity. This will drop to 95% with wispy clouds and if warm but cloudy to around half or 1.5KW energy, this is still enough to keep things running.

Choose solar PV:  if you have a south facing roof free from obstructions (e.g. large chimney or a big tree). Get a free quote by filling in questionnaire 

Heat pumps

What many people don’t understand about heat pumps is that they work best on low temperatures. It’s a big job to undertake and your property must be properly insulated before even considering putting in heat pumps.

Heat pumps operate at an average 45 degrees (compared to boilers at an average 70 degrees) so need bigger a surface area to process.

Another sticking point is the insulation. In order to qualify for the existing BUS grant of £5K towards a heat pump installation you have to have insulation.

Be that cavity wall insulation, double glazing or decent roof insulation or all three, in an ideal world. If your EPC suggests insulation is needed, this must be addressed before you proceed with heat pump installation.

If your property has solid walls you would need to internally insulate or externally clad or else the heat loss will be too high for the heat pump to operate efficiently.

Another thing to take into account is that if you are retro-fitting an existing property and heating system you need to consider most of radiators will be need to up-sized. Many people do not realise the extra considerations needed here.

Installing heat pumps is a science in itself. Any good surveyor needs to calculate the potential heat loss of the building, determine the size and make recommendations for a feasible way forward.

Choose Heat Pump if: you have the correct insulation and the space to expand. Get a free survey by filling in our questionnaire.

Whatever heating solution you cboose, the renewable team’s top energy saving top tip is…

“Ensure your Radiators have thermostatic bulbs. Use energy saving controls and have decent level of roof insulation. If you can envelope your house if heat and do your best to ensure it’s not escaping, it will help reduce the costs.”

For more information about renewable heating solutions visit our specialist website 

The post Which renewable technology option is best for my property? appeared first on Gregor Heating, Electrical & Renewable Energy.

The BUS follows the Domestic Renewable Heating Incentive (DRHI), which closed at midnight on 31 March 2022 and will allow people to apply for a one-off grant payment of:

• £5,000 towards the cost of an air-source heat pump (ASHP) or biomass installation

or

• £6,000 towards the cost of a ground-source heat pump (GSHP) installation.

Homes and small non-domestic buildings on and off the gas grid, including owner-occupiers, private landlords and custom-builds, are eligible for the BUS. New buildings and social housing will not be eligible for support.

All applicants must have a valid EPC and if the EPC states that cavity wall or roof insulation is recommended, this work must be done, and a new EPC issued before applying for the BUS Scheme. They will also need to use a MCS registered installer to undertake the work.

If you have started an installation project from 1^st April this year you will be eligible to apply for a BUS grant once it has launched.

The Spring Statement also welcomed VAT relief on Energy Saving Measures which includes  solar panel and heat pumps installations. From 1^st April 2022, these will be zero rate VAT for a period of 5 years. By way of example of the incentives this can have, the Chancellor said; “A family having a solar panel installed will see tax savings worth over £1,000 and savings on their energy bill of over £300 per year.“

Steve Gregor commented:

“These are welcome moves by the Government to keep providing grant funding and VAT relief for homeowners that are looking for more carbon friendly ways to heat their homes.

 “As an MCS registered installer, Gregor Heating has been installing renewable technologies for over ten years and we are delighted to be able to assist customers looking for a reliable expert to help with their home heating needs.”

If you are interested in looking at renewable technologies to heat your home then check out our dedicated website for success stories of renewable technologies.

The post What does the Boiler Upgrade Scheme mean for you? appeared first on Gregor Heating, Electrical & Renewable Energy.

Earlier this year, we worked with this customer in Bath who has had a Solar PV system for seven years and was looking for help to lower their electric and gas consumption and keep their carbon footprint in check.

After a face-to-face consultation with our renewables team to look at the existing solar panel system, our experts went through all the potential options to come up with a total install package to help meet this customer’s objectives.

We identified that they could harness the excess solar power generated from their PV panels by using a battery backup system with a Solar Diverter.

In this instance the best solution was to use My Energi products due to the versatility in using a battery & hot water storage and also possible future demand for car charging.

We also recommended looking at alternative energy suppliers to help keep costs low.

For example Octopus Energy provide reasonable off-peak rates during the hours of 00:30 until 4am* meaning the battery can be topped on days where excess solar gain is not possible.

The installation of these products require support from qualified electricians and this is where having an all-service team of heating engineers and electricians means we can provide the installation both quickly and easily.

For a project like this, the installation typically takes only one day on site.

Our electrician attended to install the My Eddi (which is linked with My Hub, an app monitoring) and put in a 8.2 Giv Energy linked to a Giv Energy 3.6 AC coupled inverter, to ensure this wouldn’t affect the current feed in tariff. This package will also include a dedicated power supply in an event of a power outage.

In this case the customer works from home two days a week, so the team prioritised the hot water to be charged in the morning with any excess solar power generation to be diverted to the battery.

The battery discharge times can be set so the home benefits from maximum usage from the battery at times convenient to them, helping to consistently reduce running costs.

Once the system is set up, the customer can download the My Hub App onto their chosen smart device and is shown in detail how to monitor and use the system for maximum benefit.

We check in on the customer one month after fitting the system to see how they are doing.

In this case we are pleased to report that their energy costs have been significantly reduced by reducing gas consumption as well storing excess electricity into the batteries for night time use. They reduced their electricity by 50% in a month.

They haven’t explored the off-peak tariffs available yet but said its next on the list to do.

This is all part of the service and why people choose Gregor Heating to help them make the right home heating choice.

Through the Gregor Guarantee, you are guaranteed expert and friendly advice and service to find the right solution to keep you and your home warm & cosy.

Check out our Which Trusted Trader for reviews and recommendations.

*Tariffs quoted at time of writing.

The post How battery backup can add value to your solar PV system appeared first on Gregor Heating, Electrical & Renewable Energy.

Well, as boiler experts we’ve laid out answers to some of the most common questions we’re getting from customers and also want to set some healthy expectations on the financial implications involved with the switch over.

Will I have to have a hydrogen boiler?

The government has laid out a Hydrogen strategy and 10 Point Plan that makes a move to boost hydrogen production with plans for a hydrogen village, town and eventually city to aid transition to hydrogen in the UK. So in short, yes, but not for a good few years yet.

Why do we need to make the change and why Hydrogen?

When natural gas is burned it produces carbon dioxide which makes heating our homes one of the biggest contributors to climate change in the UK. Hydrogen is different in that the only by-product of burning hydrogen gas is water. There are also ways of making hydrogen gas that are very carbon efficient which makes it very promising as a low-carbon fuel. The government sees it as an essential way of reaching our goal of being net zero as a country by 2050.

Hydrogen boilers – what is the difference?

A hydrogen boiler is very similar to a natural gas boiler, the way it is constructed, and its functions work in much the same way.  Some components on the inside are slightly difference, for example the flame detector. 

Manufacturers are working on developing hydrogen boilers for a similar cost to gas boilers today. Did you know that most of the gas boilers we install today are already 20% hydrogen compatible? This  means they will take about one hour to convert from natural gas to hydrogen by changing a couple of components on the inside, which can be easily done by one of our engineers when the time is right.

When will the switch to Hydrogen happen?

Although the announcement has been made that it will happen there is no clear date for the switch although we expect to see the start of the switch over begin in 2026.

There are some parts of the UK that are trialing it already. It is still very much in a test stage.  But the introduction of the 20% hydrogen blend is happening now and means that most people will have updated to a hydrogen-ready boiler by the time the changeover happens, so adapting to the new type of gas should be fairly straightforward.

It’s important to note that the government’s plan to decarbonise the heating of UK homes is not just going to feature Hydrogen Boilers.  Heat pumps and other technologies are also part of its strategy in reaching their net zero goal and keeping everyone warm and cosy at home. You can read more about Heat Pumps here.

Will this be an expensive switch?

Good news! Manufacturers are confident that Hydrogen boilers won’t cost any more than their current boilers. As they work in a very similar way, there shouldn’t be any extra costs when it comes to installation and maintenance either.

When will Gas Boilers be banned?

There has been a lot in the press in recent months about gas boilers being banned from 2025, but that’s only targeted at new-build properties, and won’t affect existing homes and boilers.

Your current boiler or a new one you are installing this year, is forecast to use natural gas for all its working lifetime. It is only when you come to replace it again that you will be looking at Hydrogen Boilers or Heat Pumps.

We hope you have found this information helpful. Also this useful video (1minute watch) on the Worcester Bosch website is worth watching.

Photo credit Worcester Bosch.

The post What you need to know about Hydrogen boilers appeared first on Gregor Heating, Electrical & Renewable Energy.