We’re investing £7.7m this financial year to modernise heating systems.
As part of our cyclical works programme, we are replacing old boilers and upgrading heating controls with smart technology, with the goal of improving thermal comfort for residents while also improving our energy efficiency ratings.
Many of our rental homes have old heating systems that, while still working, are inefficient and don't provide good temperature control.
Replacing old boilers alone doesn't significantly improve energy efficiency ratings. Many of the old boilers we replace are already A-rated, just old and unreliable.
However, upgrading the heating controls makes a huge difference. Installing modern controls with weather compensation and smart thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) can improve energy efficiency scores by up to 10 points. This is the difference between a property rated D or E moving up to a C rating.
The benefits for residents receiving these upgrades:
- Better comfort: Individual room temperature control means you can have bedrooms cooler and living rooms warmer.
- Lower bills: Weather compensation means the system only uses the energy needed based on actual weather, not guesswork.
- Easier to use: Modern digital controls are clearer than old mechanical timers.
- More reliable: New equipment means fewer breakdowns and repair callouts.
Our focus going forward
All new boiler installations include advanced controls. Every new boiler gets the full specification including weather compensation controls and smart TRVs as standard.
Targeting properties with old controls. We're working with our contractors to identify homes that have older basic controls, even if their boiler is relatively new, so we can upgrade the controls and achieve significant efficiency gains.
What this means for you
We will notify you if your home is to receive a new boiler and/or new heating controls. Some things to be aware of If you're receiving these upgrades:
- Installation can take longer. The new controls require electrical wiring work, which can take 3-4 hours depending on the property layout.
- Some disruption may be needed. In some cases, contractors may need to lift carpets or run cables to install the controls properly.
- Support will be offered to understand the new controls. The systems are more sophisticated than old timers, so you may need extra explanation from contractors.
- The benefits are significant. This isn't just a boiler swap; it's a genuine improvement to your home comfort and running costs.
Programme delivery
All installations include:
- New A-rated boilers where needed
- Weather compensation controls
- Secure smart TRV heads on radiators
- Full system commissioning and resident demonstration
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for every install
This work is being delivered by our three domestic heating contractors:
- BSW Heating
- Sureserve Group
- Watret and Co Ltd
Questions?
If your home is part of the replacement programme you will receive notification from our domestic heating team and relevant contractor when it’s time for the work to take place in your area. That correspondence will detail who to contact if you have questions.
