Research project reveals gas heating alternative that runs for less than £2 a day

A Salford research project has revealed a gas heating alternative that can run for less than £2 a day.

The Future Homes study was conducted to find heating alternatives as the UK phases out gas boilers. Findings showed that air source heat pumps can provide energy efficient warmth to homes for only £1.84 per day.

The findings of the study will help homeowners and landlords understand the most efficient ways to heat homes.

The research involved simulating winter temperatures in the University’s Energy House 2.0. Energy House 2.0 is a specially built weather chamber that simulates a range of temperatures and types of weather. Tests were run between five degrees and minus five degrees to simulate a typical British winter.

Tests were run on a wide range of heating methods. These methods included air source heat pumps, infrared solar panels, underfloor heating, skirting board heating and traditional radiators.

Richard Fitton, Professor of Building Performance at the University, said: “Without the unique facilities we have here at Salford, it would take years to deliver these results”.

“These insights will be invaluable as we try to reduce the carbon emitted in heating our homes, whilst ensuring that people are warm and comfortable in their homes without paying too much on their bills.”

Each house inside the chamber was built by Bellway house, in partnership with Barratt Redrow and Saint-Gobain developments.

Barratt Redrow Director of Technical and Innovation, Oliver Novakovic, said: “The Energy House 2.0 research is one of the most important research and development projects Barratt Redrow has ever undertaken.”

This was echoed by Jamie Bursnell, Head of Technical and Innovation for Bellway, who added:”The heating tests at Energy House 2.0 have accelerated our understanding of how new homes can be heated through electric sources.

“We will now refine and test further, and the research will inform our work with new technologies on the live developments where these are already being trialled.”

Findings from the study also found that electric heating sources do not work well when used similarly to gas boilers.

UK residents are more likely to heat their house between 7am and 9:00am as well as 4pm and 11pm. The study tested this method of heating against  constant 24 hour heating. Consumers would have to adapt to heating their house in a more constant way to make it effective.