Transforming a cottage into a energy-efficient living space
Humphrey & Crockett were tasked with transforming a farm cottage in Wiltshire into a warm, energy-efficient, and comfortable living space. The project involved designing a new, low-temperature renewable central heating system tailored to the unique needs of the cottage and its rural location.
Project details
Location
Wiltshire
Products used
The project
The heating system featured a Grant heat pump, new fan-assisted radiators for maximum efficiency, high-output MHS colored towel rails, mains pressure hot water, a water softener, and a kitchen boiling tap. Given the exposed rural location of the farm cottage, an infrared top-up & boost was added, along with a Contura feature wood-burning stove in the lounge.
This project was part retrofit and part new installation, accommodating a major extension to the cottage. The system was designed to cover 100% of the heat loss, ensuring the home remained warm and comfortable.
The Numbers:
- Heat Loss: 7.62 kWh (calculated on a full MCS heating, fuel use, and eco energy assessment)
- Heated Area Footprint: 138.27 m²
- Heating Need: 47.66 W/m²
- Design Temperature: Capacity of 21°C throughout, 22°C in bathroom & ensuite @ -2.4°C minimum daytime outside temperature
- MCS Certified Efficiency: 4.11 COP
The results
Budget & Key Performance Metrics
- Total Heating Budget: £32.5K
- Key Performance Metrics:
- Heating Need: 47.66 W/m²
- Cost: £32.5K
- Annual Savings: £650 cheaper to run than oil (based on MCS warranty numbers)
Over two winters, the new system demonstrated significant cost savings and efficiency:
- Previous Annual Oil Use: £1,871
- MCS Certificate and Warranty for Heat Pump Fuel Use: £1,597
- Actual Electric Used for Heating and Hot Water: £1,150
- Annual Saving: £721 per year
The cottage now enjoys a consistent and comfortable temperature, ranging between 19°C and 20°C, thanks to the new heating system. The homeowners are highly satisfied with the results, appreciating the much warmer, slow, and steady heated house along with the new hot water system.
Our connection to Humphrey & Crockett arose from recommendations by trade exhibitors and manufacturers. Paul Humphrey stood out for his responsiveness, transparency, and detailed heating & eco energy assessment. Humphrey & Crockett provided us with both options and solutions tailored to our needs and the specifics of our house.
The result is a comfortable and warm home that meets all our needs. We are extremely happy with the outcome and highly recommend Humphrey & Crockett.
Homeowner
Wiltshire