About: Conor

At UKS, we pride ourselves on making things easy for our clients. We know how stressful managing commercial services can be, so we’ve worked hard to build processes that keep things smooth, efficient, and, most importantly, stress-free for you 

Proactive service planning 

We believe in getting ahead of the game when it comes to service planning. Instead of waiting for clients to reach out when service dates are approaching, we make sure everything is lined up in advance. We book our engineers well before service deadlines, so there’s never any last-minute scramble. This proactive approach ensures that everything is compliant, and that you don’t have to worry about anything slipping through the cracks. 

We also set up regular KPI review meetings with our clients to stay on top of what’s coming up, what’s in progress, and what’s been completed. These meetings help us track any outstanding jobs and make sure your needs are always being met. There’s no waiting around for you to prompt us; we’re on top of it every step of the way. 

Another way we stay ahead is by sending renewal quotes 3 to 6 months before services are due. Rather than waiting for you to remind us, we get those quotes to you in plenty of time. It’s just another way we take responsibility for the whole process, so you don’t have to think about it. 

Streamlined onboarding with mobilisation meetings 

Starting a new service partnership can sometimes feel like a lot of work, but we’ve got it down to a science to make it simple. At UKS, we have mobilisation meetings to kick things off, either via Teams or in person, so everyone’s clear on what needs to happen. These meetings are an opportunity for us to explain how we work, go over the process, and make sure we understand exactly what you’re looking for from us. 

One of the most important parts of onboarding is reviewing the asset list. We don’t just check off a few items; we go through everything, from model numbers to current condition, so we have a clear picture of what we’re dealing with. This transparency from the get-go means there won’t be any surprises later on. 

Asset management and compliance 

At UKS, we know how important it is to have accurate, up-to-date asset records. We make sure that your asset lists are always compliant and reflect the real condition of your equipment. If we see that there are outdated records or poorly maintained equipment, we help you get everything in order, so you’re always on top of your assets. 

We’ve helped plenty of clients who didn’t have the best asset management systems in place, and we’ve turned things around for them. Whether it’s getting records straight, identifying assets that need maintenance, or replacing outdated equipment, we’ve got you covered. By keeping everything organised, we help you stay on top of compliance and avoid any unnecessary downtime. 

How we handled a last-minute service request 

One of the best ways to show how our planning and flexibility works is of course through real-life examples! A client recently missed their scheduled maintenance and came to us with a last-minute request.  

Normally, this might have been tough to squeeze in, especially with a packed schedule. But thanks to our proactive service planning, we had the flexibility to fit them in. This is exactly why we always plan ahead. Because of the way we structure our services, we can adjust when unexpected things come up. 

Why UKS Is the right partner for you 

At the end of the day, our goal is simple: we want to make your life easier. We know there are a lot of moving parts in service contracts, and we’ve spent years fine-tuning our processes to keep everything running as smoothly as possible. From planning ahead to clear communication, we’ve got a system in place that allows us to stay on top of every detail, so you don’t have to. 

If you want a service partner who’s proactive, organised, and easy to work with, UKS is here for you. We’ve got the systems in place to ensure that things run without a hitch, leaving you to focus on what matters most; your business. 

Contact our friendly team to see how we could help you with your commercial heating and cooling needs. 

Accuracy is everything when it comes to managing your hot water, heating, and cooling systems. Whether you’re upgrading equipment, planning maintenance, or resolving system issues, having the right information upfront can save time, money, and frustration down the line. That’s where site surveys become invaluable. However, while site surveys are incredibly valuable, they’re not always practical for every client or site. 

In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of site surveys, the challenges they can present, and how we at UKS offer alternatives to help clients achieve accurate assessments even when a site visit isn’t possible. 

Why do site surveys matter? 

A site survey involves visiting your premises to gather detailed, on-the-ground information about your current equipment and the environment where new systems will be installed or existing ones maintained. 

The benefits of a site survey include: 

Accurate quotes 

By inspecting your site, we can accurately assess what’s needed like equipment specifications, pipework, cabling, drainage, and more. This results in much more precise quotations, reducing the likelihood of unexpected costs later on. 

Tailored solutions  

Every facility is unique, so a site survey allows us to understand your specific needs, layout, and operational challenges, ensuring that we recommend the best design options. 

Reduced surprises  

Site surveys help us identify potential issues like space constraints, unusual system configurations, or outdated infrastructure early on so they can be addressed in the planning phase. 

Extended lifespan  

It’s a fact that correctly matched and properly installed equipment performs better and lasts longer. A site survey ensures your systems are suited to their environment and usage. 

Enhanced confidence  

With a site survey, you know you’re getting advice rooted in real-world observations, giving you peace of mind you can rely on. 

The challenges of site surveys 

While site surveys offer clear advantages, we recognise that they aren’t always practical. Some common challenges include: 

Restricted access  

For large or high-security sites, gaining physical access for a survey can be complex. Security protocols, operational restrictions, or sensitive environments might limit our ability to inspect the premises. 

Inaccurate asset lists  

When site access isn’t possible, we often rely on asset lists provided by clients. Unfortunately, these lists can vary in detail and accuracy, leading to potential gaps in understanding the facility’s needs. 

Time constraints  

For facilities operating around the clock or on tight schedules, accommodating a survey might seem disruptive or inconvenient. 

What are the alternatives to site surveys? 

At UKS, we understand these challenges and offer alternatives to help you get the information you need, even if a site survey just isn’t possible. 

Educating clients 

We guide clients on how to gather essential information from their own records. If a site survey isn’t an option, an asset list becomes the foundation of any assessment. But it has to be accurate. 

What’s an asset list?  

An asset list is essentially an inventory of your current equipment. For example, this list could include hot water systems, HVAC units, pumps, and more. It provides basic details like make, model, age, and condition. 

How can we help?  

We’ll walk you through the process of creating or updating your asset list. Our expertise can help you identify the key details needed to ensure your list is as comprehensive as possible. 

Supporting facility staff 

Even if you’re not a system expert, we can help you gather the right information. Facility caretakers or in-house teams often have some knowledge of the equipment, and we’re here to bridge any gaps. 

What if I’m not sure what to look for?  

No problem! We provide straightforward guidance to help you gather the necessary data. Whether it’s identifying equipment labels, noting down pipe layouts, or spotting signs of wear, we’ll make it simple. 

Assisting third-party managers 

Third-party facility managers are often responsible for a variety of systems, from lifts to lighting, and may not specialise in heating or cooling equipment. We’re here to fill that expertise gap, ensuring they’re equipped to gather accurate information. 

The long-term benefits of accurate data 

Whilst putting together a good asset list may seem time consuming, taking the time to build a reliable asset list can really pay off in the long run: 

Smooth installations and maintenance  

A well-documented asset list ensures installations and maintenance go smoothly, with fewer surprises or delays. 

Better budget planning  

Accurate data helps prevent price increases in the future. For example, an incomplete asset list might lead to underestimated costs in year one, followed by unexpected uplifts in year two. 

Easier upgrades  

With a clear understanding of your equipment, planning for upgrades or replacements becomes much simpler and more predictable. 

Building partnerships that last 

At UKS, our ultimate goal is to be your trusted partner. Whether through a site survey or by helping you develop a thorough asset list, we’re committed to finding solutions that work for you and your facility. Our approach is grounded in collaboration, care, and technical expertise. From ensuring reliable hot water and heating to designing efficient cooling systems, we’ll help you get it right, every single time. 

Ready to learn more about our commercial heating and cooling services? Contact our team today!  

As the seasons shift, so too does the demand on our heating and cooling systems. It’s no surprise that given how unpredictable the UK weather is, ensuring that your equipment is ready for action whatever the temperature is very important. But timing is everything and knowing when to service your heating and cooling systems can save you a lot of time, money, and headaches. 

In this blog, we’re going to be sharing why we recommend proactive, seasonal heating servicing, and how planning ahead can make the colder months feel a little warmer — without burning through your budget! 

Preparing your commercial heating system for winter 

The importance of maintaining your commercial heating system cannot be overstated, as boilers, pumps, and other heating equipment are under significant strain when they’re called into action during the colder months. Without proper preparation, you risk encountering issues that can disrupt business operations. For example, boilers that haven’t been serviced or maintained properly may fail when temperatures plummet, leading to unexpected repair costs and potential downtime. 

The best time for servicing heating systems is generally late summer or early autumn. Getting your heating checked before the winter rush allows you to catch issues early and make necessary repairs before it starts getting chilly.  

Here’s a few reasons why we recommend scheduling maintenance ahead of the season: 

Avoid peak season rush 
Once the cold weather hits, everyone wants to get their heating systems checked. By scheduling your servicing before winter arrives, you’ll avoid the high demand and long wait times that come with peak heating season. You’ll also benefit from faster, more affordable service when it’s needed. 

Proactive problem solving 
During off-season servicing, engineers have the time to thoroughly inspect the system and catch potential issues — such as a faulty pressure valve or a cracked heat exchanger — before they turn into expensive repairs or a system breakdown during winter. This proactive approach can extend the life of your equipment and prevent unplanned downtime, which can be costly for any business. 

Lower operating costs 
A well-maintained heating system operates more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and lowering heating bills. Servicing your system before the cold weather sets in ensures that all components are running optimally, which can save you significant money over time. 

Don’t forget about cooling equipment 

It’s not just heating systems that need attention. For many commercial properties, air conditioning units also double as heating systems, especially in places that require a balance of both. To get the most out of your HVAC system, it’s essential to have your AC units checked and serviced before the summer season starts. 

While it might not seem like a priority in the winter months, ensuring your AC is ready for the warmer weather means your building can stay comfortable year-round. Neglecting your cooling equipment can lead to poor performance when temperatures rise, meaning you could face uncomfortably warm workspaces or costly repairs when you need the system the most. 

Getting your commercial heating system checked avoid emergencies  

There’s a clear benefit to planning ahead when it comes to heating maintenance, and that’s avoiding the stress and expense of emergency callouts. Once winter sets in, the likelihood of heating failures increases as systems work harder to keep up with the cold. Problems that could have been addressed in the off-season often escalate into larger, more expensive issues during peak times. Boilers that haven’t been turned off properly at the end of the season, or systems that weren’t shut down correctly in spring, can cause serious problems when restarted. 

By taking proactive steps, such as having your systems properly serviced and checked in the months leading up to winter, you minimise the risk of these preventable issues. And should an issue arise, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your heating company is already familiar with your equipment and ready to respond quickly. 

The importance of building long-term relationships 

One of the most efficient ways to stay ahead of your heating needs is to work with a trusted service provider over the long term. Building a relationship with a reliable heating company that understands the unique demands of your commercial property can make maintenance more seamless. It’s far more efficient to have a partner who knows your system inside out rather than having to start from scratch each year. 

A good example is St George’s University, where the contract manager has worked with us for years. This continuity ensures that there’s no loss of knowledge about the building’s heating systems, and the engineers can anticipate issues before they arise. When you work with a consistent team, you gain valuable insights into your heating system’s performance and longevity, enabling you to make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary expenses. 

Talk to our friendly team today to find out more about our commercial heating and cooling services.  

When it comes to maintaining and updating commercial heating and cooling systems, timing is everything – but perhaps not in the way you’d think. At UKS, we often encounter businesses waiting for that “perfect moment” to install new HVAC systems or schedule maintenance. Many people believe they can save by holding out until it’s absolutely necessary, but in reality, waiting can actually lead to higher costs, inefficiencies, and rushed decisions that could have been avoided with a proactive approach. 

Here’s why planning ahead is more valuable than ever and how it makes all the difference for your commercial heating and cooling needs.

Why planning ahead puts you in control 

Better availability of resources and service slots 

One of the biggest advantages of early planning is that it lets you book the best service slots and ensures that the necessary parts are available when you need them. As you’d expect, demand spikes for heating services in winter and cooling services in summer, making these peak times both costly and hectic. Scheduling your heating maintenance in the summer, or your cooling checks in the winter, allows for greater flexibility, faster service, and fewer delays. 

If your business needs a part replaced or machinery taken offline for maintenance, the impact on your team’s comfort is also minimised. Out-of-season servicing also means you don’t have to worry about your employees working in a too-hot or too-cold environment while repairs are underway. Early planning makes for happier workers, less downtime, and minimal disruption. 

Securing tender opportunities without last-minute stress 

In a competitive field, being ready to respond to tenders quickly is essential. However, businesses that delay planning may find themselves scrambling to meet last-minute tender deadlines. This can limit options and lead to rushed decisions – sometimes even resorting to third-party service providers that may not align with your company’s standards or budget. 

With a proactive approach, you’ll be better prepared to respond to tenders as they arise, allowing you to make clear-headed decisions with confidence. You’ll also reduce the risk of being pushed into using services that don’t fully meet your needs just to get something done in time. 

The cost of delayed decisions 

When you delay HVAC planning, it’s not just the service that becomes an issue – the price becomes a moving target, too. Quotes for installations, repairs, or part replacements aren’t indefinite. They’re based on current market costs, labour rates, and manufacturer prices, which are all subject to change. 

Quotes have a shelf life 

When you receive a quote, it reflects the costs at that specific moment. Manufacturers frequently update prices, and labour costs often fluctuate due to market demands. Waiting too long can mean that the original quote becomes invalid, requiring an updated quote that could come with a higher price tag. Additionally, if demand is high, you may even face increased labour costs as technicians are stretched across more projects. 

Planning ahead leads to better accuracy 

If you plan your maintenance and requirements early, you’re going to get more time to plan and prepare, and therefore better accuracy. Take, for instance, Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems. These are high-efficiency AC units that are popular in commercial spaces for their ability to serve multiple indoor units from a single outdoor system. VRF and Variable Refrigerant Volume (VRV) systems, while efficient, require careful planning and precise calculations to set up correctly.  

If we don’t have clear details about your needs in advance, it can delay installation, increase costs, and reduce efficiency. Planning in advance allows us to accurately assess requirements, ensuring the system is configured for optimal performance and minimising future maintenance needs. 

The importance of consistent annual maintenance 

Some companies defer annual maintenance, perhaps due to budget limitations or the belief that delaying by a few months won’t make much difference. However, this practice often leads to a slippery slope where every year, the maintenance schedule is pushed back just a bit more. A small delay may seem harmless, but over time, these incremental pushes can lead to serious inefficiencies, costly repairs, and reduced system lifespan. 

Regular, proactive servicing is an essential to prevent breakdowns and ensure that systems are running efficiently. When scheduled maintenance is pushed back, minor issues go undetected, which could lead to bigger problems down the line. Booking your HVAC servicing as part of an annual plan can ensure your system operates optimally, cuts down on energy costs, and provides you with peace of mind. 

How UKS helps you plan for success 

At UKS, we’re committed to making your HVAC experience as smooth as possible. We understand the importance of planning ahead, and our team is here to support you at every step. Whether it’s booking annual maintenance, arranging for new installations, or responding to tenders, we’ll work with you to create a plan that aligns with your needs and budget. 

By planning ahead, you can avoid the stress of last-minute installations, make the most of tender opportunities, and secure better pricing for your HVAC needs. Our expert team is always here to provide clear guidance and detailed quotes so you can make informed decisions at the right time – not just the “perfect” time. 

Want to have a chat about our commercial heating and cooling services or schedule maintenance? Contact our team today! 

The world is rapidly moving towards cleaner energy and reducing carbon emissions from heating systems is becoming more and more important. One technology that shows real promise in this area is hydrogen-ready boilers. These could play a big part in heating large facilities more sustainably in the future. While hydrogen isn’t quite ready for mainstream use just yet, these boilers offer a practical way to prepare for that greener future. 

So, how do hydrogen-ready boilers work, and when should facilities managers start thinking about them?  

What are hydrogen-ready boilers? 

Hydrogen-ready boilers are heating systems that can run on natural gas today but can switch over to hydrogen when it becomes more widely available. Think of them as a heating option that’s good for now but set up for a future when hydrogen is more common. 

Currently, boilers like the ones made by Baxi can operate on a mix of natural gas and up to 20% hydrogen. That might not sound like a lot, but it’s a step in the right direction. The goal is for these boilers to eventually run entirely on hydrogen, which would eliminate carbon emissions from heating. Instead of releasing CO2, burning hydrogen only produces water vapor and some nitrogen oxides (NOx), though work is being done to reduce those emissions too. 

Why hydrogen instead of electric heating? 

A big part of the push to lower carbon emissions has been the shift towards electric heating solutions, like heat pumps. But switching everything to electric isn’t always the best or most practical solution. This is especially true for large facilities like hospitals, factories, or big residential complexes that have a huge and constant need for heat. If everyone moved to electric heating at once, it could overload the power grid. 

That’s where hydrogen-ready boilers could be the solution. Since they don’t rely on electricity, they won’t add extra strain to the grid. This makes them a great option for larger buildings with big heating demands, where going all-electric might not be feasible. Instead of putting all your energy solutions into one basket, using a mix of electric heating and hydrogen-ready boilers could be a smarter, more balanced way forward. 

Baxi’s pilot project 

Baxi is making exciting strides in hydrogen boiler technology, with a 100% hydrogen boiler in a custom-built test house in Low Thornley, near Gateshead. This is part of the UK’s first hydrogen house, which is showing how hydrogen could heat homes in the future. 

While trials were initially planned for Redcar and Ellesmere Port in 2024, they’ve now been pushed back to 2026. In the meantime, Baxi’s real-world testing continues, showing that hydrogen heating isn’t just a distant idea — it’s being tested right now in real conditions.  

The goal is to make switching to hydrogen as smooth as possible. Instead of needing to replace entire heating systems, buildings with hydrogen-ready boilers will be able to switch to hydrogen once it becomes available. This kind of forward-thinking makes the transition to greener energy much simpler. 

What are the challenges of hydrogen boilers? 

While hydrogen-ready boilers sound promising, there are still a few challenges that need to be addressed before they become mainstream. One big issue is how we produce hydrogen. Right now, most hydrogen is made using fossil fuels, which isn’t exactly green. The goal is to produce “green hydrogen” by using renewable electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen (a process called electrolysis). The catch? This process takes a lot of electricity and costs can add up fast. 

So, while the boilers themselves won’t overload the power grid, producing enough green hydrogen to run them on a large scale will require a big increase in renewable energy sources. That’s why it’s going to take time before hydrogen is widely available for heating. 

There’s also the issue of nitrogen oxides (NOx). Hydrogen combustion doesn’t produce CO2, which is great, but it does create NOx, which can contribute to air pollution. Engineers are working on reducing these emissions, but it’s something that still needs to be tackled to make hydrogen a truly clean energy option. 

Mixing hydrogen with other solutions 

Given these challenges, hydrogen likely won’t be the only solution for decarbonising heating systems. Instead, a combination of different energy options might be the best way forward. In large facilities or housing developments, for instance, heat pumps could be used in areas where the heating demand isn’t too high, while hydrogen-ready boilers could handle spaces that require more intensive or consistent heating. This kind of hybrid approach would spread the energy load, easing pressure on the electricity grid while still cutting emissions.  

When should you start thinking about hydrogen-ready boilers? 

If you’re managing a facility or developing a new housing project, you might be wondering when the right time is to start thinking about hydrogen-ready boilers. The answer really depends on your long-term goals. If you’re planning a major heating upgrade in the near future, it could be a smart move to look into hydrogen-ready systems now. This allows you to run on natural gas for the time being but positions you to switch to hydrogen when it becomes more accessible. 

It’s also important to think about how hydrogen-ready boilers fit into a broader energy strategy. Rather than relying on a single solution, consider combining them with other green technologies like heat pumps or renewable energy sources to create a more efficient, sustainable heating system. 

Contact our friendly team today to find out more about commercial heating solutions designed specifically for your buildings.  

As businesses shift toward greener energy solutions, large facilities like hotels, factories, and office buildings are exploring new ways to reduce both energy consumption and environmental impact. Heat pumps, long a popular option for residential heating and cooling, are beginning to attract interest in larger commercial applications. However, this technology, while promising, brings with it several benefits and challenges when scaled up for industrial use. 

In this blog, we’ll look at the potential of heat pumps in large facilities, considering both the positives and the limitations, and assess whether they’re a practical investment for businesses aiming to reduce their carbon footprint. 

What are heat pumps? 

Heat pumps are a type of technology designed to transfer heat from one place to another, rather than generating it like traditional heating systems. They can pull heat from the air, ground, or water outside and move it inside to warm a building in the winter, and they can reverse the process to cool the building in the summer. This makes heat pumps versatile and energy efficient. 

For large facilities, air-source heat pumps, specifically Monobloc systems, are among the most commonly used. Monobloc heat pumps are self-contained units that absorb heat from the outside air, use electricity to power the system, and distribute that heat within the building. While the advantages are clear on paper, especially in residential settings, scaling this technology to fit the needs of large buildings presents a different set of challenges.  

The benefits of heat pumps in large facilities 

Reduction in carbon emissions 

One of the strongest arguments for using heat pumps is their potential to cut carbon emissions. Traditional gas boilers burn fossil fuels, releasing significant amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. By switching to heat pumps, which run on electricity, businesses can greatly reduce their reliance on natural gas and oil. If your facility also has access to renewable energy sources like solar power, you can reduce emissions even further. 

In a best-case scenario, a heat pump powered by on-site solar panels can drastically reduce a facility’s overall carbon footprint. This integration of solar energy and heat pumps is increasingly seen as an effective strategy for companies looking to reach net-zero carbon emissions. 

Energy efficiency 

Unlike gas boilers or electric heaters that generate heat, heat pumps transfer it, making them much more energy efficient. For large facilities where heating and cooling account for a substantial part of energy usage, this can lead to significant energy savings over time, especially during milder seasons when less heat is needed. 

Multi-functionality in one unit 

Heat pumps aren’t just for heating; they also function as air conditioners! For facilities that require both heating in winter and cooling in summer, a heat pump system can replace multiple, separate systems. This all-in-one solution offers flexibility and can help reduce the complexity of managing various HVAC systems, which can be particularly appealing for large businesses. 

Potential integration with renewable energy 

For businesses already invested in or considering renewable energy, heat pumps are an attractive option. Paired with solar panels, heat pumps can use electricity generated on-site, reducing the facility’s dependency on external power sources and fossil fuels. In some cases, facilities with sufficient solar capacity can even become energy self-sufficient, or “net positive,” producing more energy than they consume. This is a key benefit for companies aiming to lead in sustainability and reduce their reliance on traditional energy grids. 

The drawbacks of heat pumps in large facilities 

Lower heating temperatures 

A significant downside of heat pumps, especially in large buildings, is that they don’t always reach the high temperatures that gas boilers can achieve. While gas systems can easily heat water to temperatures exceeding 70°C, heat pumps typically max out at around 55°C. In buildings that rely on high-temperature heating systems or require large quantities of hot water (like hotels, industrial plants, or hospitals), this could mean additional units are required or alternative systems must be used to supplement the heat pump. This can drive up costs, both in terms of space and equipment. 

Increased space requirements 

Heat pumps require space, particularly outdoor units that need to be installed to absorb air or ground heat. Unlike compact gas boilers, which can often be tucked away in smaller areas, heat pumps take up more room and may require additional infrastructure for storage tanks and large pipes. For facilities in cities or older buildings where space may be limited, this can present a real challenge. 

High initial costs and slow ROI 

Though heat pumps can offer long-term savings on energy bills, the upfront installation costs are much higher compared to traditional systems. For many businesses, the payback period can be lengthy, especially in regions where electricity is expensive, or heating needs are high. Additionally, the cost savings in energy consumption may not always be dramatic enough to justify the investment purely from a financial perspective. 

For facilities focused on short-term cost reductions, the financial return on investment (ROI) from heat pumps may not look particularly appealing. However, for companies whose primary focus is reducing emissions and future-proofing their operations, the environmental benefits could outweigh the financial considerations. 

Dependency on electricity 

While heat pumps reduce reliance on fossil fuels, they increase dependence on electricity. If the local grid is powered primarily by non-renewable sources, the environmental benefits may not be as substantial. In areas where electricity costs are high or the grid infrastructure is outdated, the shift from gas to electric heating can also strain resources. Businesses need to carefully assess whether their electrical systems can handle the increased load, especially during winter when heat pumps will be working hardest. 

So, are heat pumps worth the investment? 

The decision to invest in heat pumps for a large facility depends heavily on your company’s long-term goals. If your business is committed to reducing emissions and becoming more sustainable, heat pumps offer a clear path to lowering your carbon footprint, especially when paired with renewable energy like solar panels.  

However, for businesses primarily focused on cutting costs, the high initial investment and the challenges of lower heating temperatures may make heat pumps a less attractive option for the time being. The savings on energy bills, may not deliver a fast ROI, particularly if your facility has complex or high-volume heating needs. 

Ultimately, heat pumps are a promising technology, but they aren’t yet the perfect fit for every large facility. With improvements in efficiency and cost, they could become more viable in the future, but for now, each business will need to weigh the pros and cons carefully, balancing their environmental commitments with financial realities. 

Talk to our friendly team today to find out more about our commercial heating and cooling services. 

It’ll come as no great shock that when it comes to managing large facilities, one of the most significant expenses is energy, particularly the energy consumed by heating systems. For many facilities, heating isn’t just a necessity during the colder months – it’s a constant requirement for maintaining comfortable environments for employees, clients, and/or processes.  

With rising energy costs, the efficiency of your heating system can make a substantial difference in your bottom line. One of the best ways to ensure that your heating system is operating at peak efficiency is through effective maintenance. 

The impact of poor maintenance on heating efficiency 

Heating systems, like any other machinery, require regular maintenance to stay ticking over at their very best. When maintenance is neglected, several things can go wrong. Dust and debris can build up in the system, filters can become clogged, and moving parts can wear out faster than they should. Over time, these issues force the system to work harder to produce the same amount of heat, leading to higher energy consumption and higher energy bills. 

A poorly maintained heating system can reduce efficiency by up to 30%, meaning a significant portion of the energy consumed is wasted. This inefficiency not only drives up costs but also places unnecessary strain on the system, potentially leading to breakdowns and repairs. Regular maintenance can help prevent these issues, ensuring that your heating system operates as efficiently as possible, saving you money in the longer term. 

How efficiency calculations can help 

When assessing the efficiency of your heating system, one of the most valuable tools in your metaphorical tool kit is efficiency calculations. These calculations can help you to work out whether it’s time to consider investing in a new, more efficient boiler or heating system. 

For example, let’s imagine your current boiler is 15 years old and works at 70% efficiency. A newer model might operate at 90% efficiency or even higher. By calculating the difference in energy consumption, you can estimate the potential savings and decide whether the investment in a new system will pay for itself, and over what period of time. 

Let’s say the installation of a new boiler costs £50,000. If the new system saves you £10,000 a year in energy costs, it would only be five years before the new boiler has paid for itself. Given that modern boilers can last 15 to 20 years with the right TLC, this investment could lead to some significant long-term savings. Plus, with energy prices likely to continue rising, the savings could be even greater. 

Trust the manufacturers  

When choosing a new heating system, manufacturers really know their stuff. They’ve put in a lot of time and money into research to make products that are efficient, reliable, and suitable for different settings. They’ve thought about everything from installation and space needs to noise levels, making sure their systems work well in all kinds of environments. 

Our job is to help businesses find the right heating system by using the detailed information that manufacturers provide. We look at your specific needs, like how much space you have, how quiet you need the system to be, and how efficient it should be, to suggest the best solution. By tapping into the manufacturer’s expertise, we make sure you get a heating system that fits your needs now and also saves you money in the long run. 

The manufacturers we work with have put a lot of effort into creating advanced heating solutions. We use their research to help businesses make smart choices about their heating systems. By understanding the details of each product, we can guide you through picking, installing, and maintaining a system that improves efficiency and cuts costs. 

Overcoming the challenges of limited visibility 

In many cases, the responsibility for heating system maintenance falls to facility management companies rather than the end-users. This can create challenges when making decisions about heating system upgrades or maintenance because facility managers often do not have direct access to energy bills or consumption data. Without this information, it can be difficult to accurately assess the system’s efficiency. 

Our business understands these challenges and is here to help. Even when we don’t have direct visibility into your energy bills or consumption data, we can still provide valuable guidance. We work closely with facility managers to suggest maintenance schedules, efficiency upgrades, and system improvements based on the specific conditions of the facility. Additionally, we can assist in creating messaging for the end business to make sure that they understand the potential benefits of efficiency upgrades, even when they don’t have all the data at hand. 

By conducting regular inspections, performing routine maintenance, and keeping detailed records of system performance, we can help facility managers identify potential issues before they become major problems. And by partnering with manufacturers and energy consultants, we ensure that the advice we provide is based on the latest industry insights and best practices. 

Communicating the benefits to clients and customers 

Understandably, sustainability is a huge priority for many businesses today. As companies focus on reducing their carbon footprint and working towards net zero, the efficiency of their heating systems becomes a really important component of their overall strategy. 

Our business not only helps you improve your heating efficiency but also assists in crafting effective messaging for your clients and customers. We understand the importance of communicating your commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability. By investing in efficient heating systems and using tools like carbon calculators, we can help you demonstrate your progress towards achieving sustainability goals.  

We work with you to develop clear, compelling messages that shine a light on your facility’s efforts to reduce energy consumption and lower carbon emissions. For instance, by sharing with your clients that your facility has taken the first steps towards net zero through the installation of a more efficient heating system, you can show that you’re serious about sustainability. This is a powerful message, especially as more companies seek to partner with businesses that share their commitment to the environment.  

Contact our friendly team today to find out more about commercial heating solutions designed specifically for your buildings. 

Managing a large facility often means grappling with operational expenses, and one of the largest can be the cost of cooling systems. Outdated air conditioning (AC) units can drive up these costs and consume excessive amounts of energy. Fortunately, there are effective strategies to improve cooling efficiency and reduce energy bills.  

The importance of AC energy efficiency  

Energy efficiency is an important element in controlling operational costs and reducing environmental impact. Efficient cooling systems require less energy to keep temperatures comfortable, which results in lower utility bills and a smaller carbon footprint – which we think we can all agree is a massive win! As energy costs continue to rise and environmental issues become more urgent, investing in energy-efficient AC systems is becoming increasingly essential. 

What is the cost of outdated AC systems? 

If you’ve got an older AC system this next bit may make you wince. Relying on older AC systems can be costly in more ways than one. These systems tend to use outdated technology that is less effective and consumes more electricity. This inefficiency can lead to higher energy bills, frequent repairs, and even impact the comfort of your facility. 

Older units may also struggle to maintain consistent temperatures, and their performance tends to decline as they age. This deterioration can result in even greater energy consumption and increased costs. In addition, older systems are often louder and less reliable, which can affect your team’s productivity and comfort, as well as rack up some big repair bills. 

What are the benefits of upgrading to modern AC units? 

Whilst it obviously comes with an upfront cost, investing in a modern, energy-efficient AC system can lead to great savings as well as improved performance. Today’s AC units come with several advanced features that really enhance efficiency, including: 

Inverter technology 

AC systems with inverter technology adjust the compressor speed based on the cooling demand, which helps reduce energy consumption compared to traditional on/off systems. 

Smart thermostats 

These devices offer precise temperature control and can be programmed to fit your facility’s cooling needs, optimising energy use and enhancing comfort. 

High-SEER ratings 

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings measure an AC unit’s efficiency. Higher SEER ratings indicate better energy efficiency, and investing in units with high SEER ratings can help you to get increased long-term savings. 

Keeping your AC unit safe and compliant: Leak checks and refrigerant regulations 

Regular maintenance is essential for maintaining cooling efficiency, and one important aspect of that is checking for refrigerant leaks. Refrigerant plays an important role in the cooling process, and leaks can lead to reduced efficiency and increased energy consumption. 

With the phase-out of R-407C by 2025, it’s a good idea to get prepared now. R-407C has a high global warming potential (GWP), and newer refrigerants like R-32 offer lower GWP and improved efficiency. While R-32 is not widely available yet, systems using it may need replacement if leaks occur. Staying proactive with leak checks and getting ahead by upgrading to compliant refrigerants can prevent issues and ensure your systems remain efficient and regulation compliant. 

Final thoughts 

Improving cooling efficiency in large facilities doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding the downsides of outdated AC systems, exploring modern, energy-efficient options, and prioritising regular maintenance, you can significantly reduce energy consumption and operational costs.  

Talk to our friendly team today to find out more about our commercial cooling services.