A new report from Bellway has recognised Ambion’s infrared heat panel system as an ‘ideal solution for flats and maisonettes’. While heat pumps offer a viable alternative for some properties, they are not suitable for all housing types – particularly where space is a concern.
The Bellway report follows the findings from Energy House 2.0, a major new study from the University of Salford set to provide the blueprint for future low-carbon homes in the UK.
Key themes from the Energy House 2.0 and Bellway’s report include:
- Bellway recognised the ‘high levels of accuracy and control’ offered by Ambion’s unique computer-controlled system.
- The Bellway report also emphasised how Ambion’s unique control system can be used with solar PV and smart tariffs.
- Energy House 2.0. tests showed that the system delivers fast heat-up times, up to four times quicker than the air source heat pump.
- Test results also show Ambion’s heat panels provide high levels of accuracy in hitting and holding target temperature evenly across the room with the test home.
Flats, apartments and maisonettes house over 20% of households in the UK1. Addressing these critical issues with technology like Ambion’s heat panels will pave the way for decarbonising Britain’s housing stock, ultimately contributing to the UK’s net zero goals.
Bellway’s follow-up report says, “Radiant heating systems give a developer the option to transition to electrical heating without the need to locate an external ASHP unit – something which is particularly relevant for flats and maisonettes.”
Energy House 2.0
The Energy House 2.0 is a collaborative project between the University of Salford, Barratt Developments, Bellway Homes, and Saint-Gobain. The study analysed the performance of a variety of heating technologies in controlled temperature conditions. Ambion’s low-carbon heat panels and unique control technology were installed in Bellway’s ‘The Future Home’ (TFH), one of two homes at the Energy House 2.0 project.
Excellent comfort and control
The Ambion system tested in Bellway’s Future Home evidenced high levels of accuracy, as well as excellent comfort and responsiveness for the householder. The control system is specifically designed for infrared radiant heat and uses computer algorithms rather than thermostats for the precise control of input energy.
Ambion’s system also emerged with the fastest heat-up time of the system tested. The technology raised the room’s temperature by up to 1.55°C per hour, four times quicker than the air source heat pump at reaching the desired temperature.
This means that the householder enjoys consistent even temperatures rather than thermal fluctuations with no cold spots. This level of control and consistency together with the fast heat-up times not only enhances household comfort but also saves energy and reduces bills.
Ambion’s CEO, Oliver Baker, said: “We’re thrilled that Energy House 2.0 and Bellway have validated the exceptional heating performance of Ambion’s low-carbon system. Our system offers low upfront cost with an easy installation process which can be undertaken by any qualified electrician. It also provides superior compatibility with solar PV and smart tariffs further improving the affordability of a warm home.”
Future-proofing with renewable energy
The Bellway report emphasised how Ambion’s unique control system can be used with solar PV and smart tariffs, optimising the use of on-site renewable energy, reducing strain on the grid and lowering energy costs.
The Ambion system uses algorithms which spread the heat demand across the 24-hour period to provide a low and even load with no spikes, switching heaters on at different intervals to further reduce load. This makes the system ideal for solar and smart tariffs, which can provide typical savings of 50%, making heating even more affordable.
Baker further emphasises that ‘the study and subsequent report confirm that the Ambion system provides an effective, comfortable and controllable heating solution which is ideal for flats and smaller properties where heat pumps may be unsuitable. This helps fill the gap left by heat pumps, ensuring that smaller properties aren’t left behind in the transition to a cleaner energy future.’
Discover how Ambion’s unique heat panel technology works.