Bellway installs UK’s first roof-mounted air source heat pump at Energy House 2.0
Bellway has partnered with Worcester Bosch, the UK’s leading manufacturer of high efficiency heating and hot water systems, to trial a roof-mounted air source heat pump (ASHP) at The Future Home at the University of Salford.
The heat pump, which will be put to test in the experimental eco house, is the first of its kind to be installed in the UK, as Bellway explores new ways to incorporate low-carbon technology into new homes.
This trial is vital to the research project because, from 2025, air source heat pumps are expected to replace natural gas boilers in most homes.
This forms part of a research project run by the University of Salford with funding from the European Regional Development Fund.
Many new homes already have them installed; however, they are often positioned against or next to an exterior wall. This could obstruct valuable outdoor space and dominate the external appearance.
Bellway has engineered the house to support the 200kg air source heat pump within the roof space for a potentially ground-breaking result. For research comparisons, a second unit will be mounted on an exterior wall.
“Installing an air source heat pump within a loft space is a bold move. It is the first time Worcester Bosch has attempted this in the UK and we believe it could be an industry-first in this country."
Jamie Bursnell, Group Technical and Innovations Manager for Bellway, said: “Installing an air source heat pump within a loft space is a bold move. It is the first time Worcester Bosch has attempted this in the UK and we believe it could be an industry-first in this country.
“During the research period, we will have people living within the home to test the performance of the heat pump during real-life use. If the unit in the loft performs well, it could create a new way for homeowners to reduce their carbon footprint without compromising on space or aesthetics.”
“The eyes of the new homes industry are focused firmly on this trial but its impact could be much broader. The results could influence how householders make decisions as they replace their boilers in the coming years.”
Darran Burrage, UK New Build Director at Worcester Bosch, said: “We are delighted to be part of this innovative trial. It is one of many that we at Worcester are involved in to help introduce low carbon heating technology into UK homes.
“One barrier for existing properties to convert to a heat pump is size and location. By placing an air source heat pump in the loft of The Future Home, the trial will hopefully pave the way for an alternative location and if successful enable more homeowners to see the technology as a viable greener heating alternative in the future.”
Professor Will Swan, Director of Energy House Labs at the University of Salford, said: “The growing challenges of climate change and the cost-of-living crisis mean we need to consider how we build and operate our homes. Energy House Labs’ mission is to work with industry and policy makers to provide evidence for what works in meeting these challenges.
“Energy-efficient, high-performing homes can change people’s lives. The importance of this agenda is one of the main reasons behind the University of Salford’s major investment in Energy House 2.0, which is a critical piece of research infrastructure that can help us find solutions to these problems.”
Bellway’s Future Home is now in its final stages of build. Once complete it will be dressed by interior designers so it is ready to be occupied.
In the new year, selected guests will be invited to stay in the home so data can be collected on the effectiveness of each innovation. Experts at the university will analyse the results to help determine the most viable ways for the industry to move towards net zero.
