At Energy House Labs, we’ve just completed the UK’s largest-ever study into heating systems, offering crucial insights into the future of home heating. Conducted at our state-of-the-art Energy House 2.0 facility, this research tested 14 different heating technologies to determine the most efficient, cost-effective solutions as the UK moves towards a gas-free future.
Funded by the Greater Manchester Innovation Accelerator Programme, the study explored the effectiveness of various systems, including Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs), infrared panels, underfloor heating, skirting board heaters, and traditional radiators. Our findings revealed that ASHPs are among the most energy-efficient solutions, costing as little as £1.84 per day to heat a home during winter, outperforming current gas boilers.
The research was conducted under controlled conditions that replicate a wide range of real-world climates, from typical winter temperatures to extreme cold. We tested heating systems using both constant heating patterns and the traditional approach many UK households use, heating their homes in the morning and evening. Our results showed that while ASHPs performed excellently under constant heating, consumers would need to adjust their usage habits for maximum efficiency compared to traditional gas systems.
In collaboration with partners like Bellway and Barratt Redrow, we also tested innovative heating solutions in real-world homes, such as the first roof-mounted ASHPs and mechanical heat recovery systems. This research not only supports the UK’s net-zero targets but also provides valuable insights that will help homeowners, builders, and policymakers plan for the future of home heating.