Panasonic Delivers Sustainable Warmth to EPC A-rated Home in Bedfordshire
Bedfordshire. UK
2023
Aquarea air to water heat pump, Residential
Outdoor units: Aquarea Monobloc air-to-water heat pump
Indoor units:
Challenge
Solutions & Tech Applied
A new build bespoke property from Dovecote Homes integrates cutting-edge green technology featuring the Panasonic 12kW Aquarea Monobloc air-to-water heat pump, alongside solar panels and a battery storage unit. The stunning property has achieved the most-efficient EPC rating possible (A-rated) thanks to its thoughtful specification.
The heating and cooling system was supplied and designed by authorised Panasonic distributor Oceanair and installed by Danny Wakeman of Wakeman Heating & Renewables.
The centrepiece of this remarkable home is the Panasonic Aquarea 12kW T-Cap monobloc unit, expertly designed to provide optimal performance. Combining the eco-friendly heat pump with underfloor heating on the ground level and radiators on the upper floor results in unparalleled comfort throughout the property. The intelligent integration of solar panels and a battery storage unit further enhances the home's energy efficiency, minimising its environmental impact.
Dovecote Homes is a respected independent developer specialising in creating bespoke, luxury homes with a sustainable ethos. The company follows a unique approach, identifying prime plots of land and creating initial designs and foundations. Subsequently, they collaborate with their buyers during the planning phase to tailor each home to the buyer's preferences. Through the combination of green technologies, this home has achieved an extraordinary feat – earning an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of A, the highest possible rating for energy efficiency. It stands as a testament to the power of eco-conscious choices and advanced heating solutions to create a greener future.
Phil Ovenden, Managing Director of Dovecote Homes explains “Sustainability is a key priority to us and for our future homeowners, as energy efficiency of the heating system is top of our buyers’ agenda. This recent project exemplifies the perfect synergy between luxurious living and sustainable practices. By incorporating the Panasonic 12kW Aquarea Monobloc heat pump, solar panels, and battery storage, this home sets a standard for energy efficiency in the residential sector.”
The original manufacturer and installer initially specified for the heat pump units was unable to deliver and install the units within the required timeframe and Panasonic was recommended as a reliable and compliant option. Given the paramount importance of reliability and efficiency for the house's heating system, it was imperative to make the right choice.
Upon approaching Panasonic, Dovecote Homes was introduced to Panasonic Pro Partner, Danny at Wakeman Heating & Renewables, and Roland Gurner from Oceanair, an authorised Panasonic distributor. Their expertise in air source heat pumps and assurance of Panasonic's reliability ensured the project’s success. Roland Gurner, in collaboration with Danny, designed the new heating system for the house, offering valuable technical support throughout the installation process. Despite tight deadlines, the combined efforts of Panasonic and Oceanair ensured timely supply, seamless installation, and adherence to high-quality standards.
The Panasonic Aquarea T-Cap Mono-bloc is a single system to heat the home and produce hot water, thus solving a variety of problems while allowing occupants to enjoy greater comfort. The Mono-bloc range can be simply connected to underfloor heating, radiators, or fan coil units. The range boasts high energy efficiency, is rated A+++ at 35ºC and A++ at 55ºC plus has a high SCOP capacity. Furthermore, the impressive system can work under higher pressure and reach a 65ºC water flow temperature for the ultimate high performing unit.
Danny Wakeman of Wakeman Heating & Renewables is very knowledgeable and passionate about renewables and providing sustainable systems to futureproof homes. He comments: “Aquarea’s high SCOP figures at the design temperature mean low running costs for the homeowner, plus the outdoor unit housing a lot of the components frees up space which would otherwise be occupied within the property.”
The Panasonic Aquarea units were installed in October 2022, and therefore have seen a winter and homeowner Dave Love said, “We have been more than impressed with how the units keep their level of warmth and constant temperature through the whole house. Initially, we found the house too warm, but Danny was quick to help. He came round to explain the controls to us and helped us find the optimum level of comfort throughout the house – we have even had a facetime call with Danny when we first moved in. We have been impressed with the level of aftercare service we have received regarding the heating system. The sustainability of the home and energy efficient was a key part of the appeal and a factor in our decision to purchase the house in the first place, especially with the energy crisis at the time.”
Key Tech Features
EPC A-Rated
air-to-water heat pump
Capacity
12 kW