As the heating industry embraces low-temperature systems like heat pumps, the role of heating engineers becomes even more vital.
Stewart Clements, director of the Manufacturers’ Association of Radiators and Convectors (MARC), explains how radiators and engineers are adapting to the future of heating.
“Heating engineers have a vital role to play – advising consumers on how important it is to insulate their homes to increase the efficiency of low-temperature heating systems, such as heat pumps,” says Clements.
With the shift towards greener energy, engineers are guiding customers on making their current radiators more efficient, even if they aren’t ready for heat pumps just yet.
Futureproofing homes for heat pumps
According to Clements, after necessary home insulation and heat loss calculations, radiators in homes with traditional gas boilers can still be optimised to run at lower temperatures, improving both energy and cost efficiency.
“This means that their radiators, even while still on a gas boiler heating system, can be run at a lower temperature and are more energy and cost efficient. And, if they are not yet in a position to move to a heat pump, their heating system is futureproofed and ready for when they want to make the switch,” he adds.
The MARC website provides a valuable heat calculation tool for heating engineers, helping them specify the right radiator for their customers.
There’s also a helpful consumer guide to support homeowners in choosing the best radiators for their home.
Certified quality for the heating industry
When installing new radiators or replacing old ones, engineers should check that products carry the CE mark, which confirms they meet the European Standard BS-EN442.
This ensures the radiators have been independently tested and meet legal requirements, allowing for a fair comparison of heat outputs between different products.
“Manufacturers who are members of MARC are committed to providing products that are CE marked and include the correct heat output for all the products they advertise,” Clements said.
“These standards are essential for ensuring that radiators deliver the expected performance and quality, making the choice easier for engineers, specifiers, architects, and consumers alike.
Radiators are central to efficient heating
With the heating industry evolving, heating engineers play a key role in educating consumers about energy efficiency. As more homes transition to low-temperature heating systems, radiators will continue to be a critical part of the equation.
Radiators may often go unnoticed, but they are crucial to delivering warmth, comfort, and efficiency in our homes.
“Radiators play a massive role, and MARC members are committed to providing certified, high-quality products to meet those needs. So, even if it’s only for this one day, let’s shine a spotlight on our radiators!” concludes Clements.
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