Innovative new heating system set to turbocharge switch to heat pumps
The design for a new heating system which could turbocharge the uptake of heat pumps in the UK has been revealed.
Nusku’s patent-pending concept combines a water cylinder with a heat pump all in one unit, to sit outside a home, meaning it’s significantly quicker and easier to install than traditional heat pumps.
It was showcased for the first time at The Heat Pump Show, the UK’s only dedicated heat event, and is set to be the only heating system of its kind in the UK when it comes to market next year.
By moving the water cylinder outside, people will no longer face losing valuable storage space and disruption during installation is minimal.
Another major benefit is that the system is able to deliver heat at a high temperature, meaning people are less likely to need to replace their radiators, making the switch from a gas boiler to a heat pump much cheaper and easier than at present.
Russell Murchie, CEO and co-founder of Nusku, said the goal from the outset was to remove many of the barriers to adoption currently faced by homeowners, landlords and housing associations.
Russell said: “We know many people are deterred by the fact they need to find space inside their home for a water cylinder as it means losing valuable storage space. The prospect of installing new radiators and a lengthy and disruptive installation process is also a major barrier, along with the potential noise generated by the heat pump and misconceptions around cost and performance.
“Our design overcomes all these issues, which will make it quicker and easier for people to replace their gas boilers and switch to renewable energy with a heat pump that meets all their needs.
“It felt like a watershed moment showing our product to those working in the heating industry for the first time and to get such a positive response, reinforcing our belief that there’s a huge gap in the market for an innovative heating system like ours.”
The Nusku stand at the Heat Pump Show
A key selling point will be the fact it’s cheaper and quicker to install - taking a few days rather than over a week. This will specifically appeal to those whose existing gas boiler has broken and they want a hassle-free and environmentally friendly replacement.
Another key ambition is for the Nusku heating system to be the smartest, most connected, and easiest to use heat pump on the market. Built-in smart controls will allow the system to be monitored and controlled remotely, helping to optimise settings and reduce energy bills.
Targeting two and three-bedroom homes, Nusku’s product will support the Government’s ambition for 450,000 heat pumps to be installed per year by 2030, supported by the £7,500 grant available through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
The first Nusku heating system was tested at the University of Salford’s Energy House – a unique research and testing laboratory which comprises an early 20th century two-bedroom terraced house within an environmental chamber allowing an accurate and rapid assessment of energy efficient retro fit technologies.
Now prototypes are being trialled in homes across Bristol, with more widespread trials due to start in other cities soon before the product is officially launched next year.