The increasing cost of oil has prompted many house builders in off-gas network areas to consider the use of ground source heat pumps. Forthcoming grant support from the energy companies, as part of their Carbon Emission Reduction Targets (CERT) obligations, will encourage commercial housebuilders to adopt the technology even further. As a result, sales of heat pumps are predicted to increase at a phenomenal rate and there should be significant business opportunities for contractors able to provide an installation service.
- Ease of installation
All installation work is straightforward and supported by detailed documentation. A typical heat pump, linked to Slinkies, should be installed and commissioned within a day. The most awkward task is purging the Slinkies and Kensa can either provide a suitable pump or oversee that element of the initial installation. The integration of numerous probes and sensors into each appliance allows Kensa to commission over the telephone. As a consequence, you do not need to register with either the Low Carbon Buildings Programme, or the new Microgeneration Certification Scheme to gain access to the grant funding, since Kensa is an approved installer.
- The Widest Range and A Complete Package
Kensa offers the widest selection of products ranging from ‘affordable’ 4kW models to 75kW commercial plant. Kensa offers unique twin compressor models, can supply a 24kW single phase unit and offers models that can handle domestic hot water requirements. Not only does Kensa supply the heat pumps but it also offers pre-coiled Slinkies and pre-manufactured manifolds to save installation time.
- Competitive Prices, Generous Discounts and Access to Grant Funding
Kensa’s prices are very competitive and generous discounts are available. In addition, Kensa can offer referrals and access to exceptional pricing on underfloor heating systems via its approved partners.
Most importantly, Kensa installers can access the new CERT grant support, available via the energy companies, without paying the expensive registration fees to join the new BRE-managed MCS scheme. Kensa’s ability to commission its units over the telephone allows the company to take responsibility for the completed installation, thereby permitting grants from the energy companies to be offered. Kensa are now able to offer clients £1,200.00 CERT funding on domestic installations which are completed by the end of 2010. To find out more about this funding stream and to read more about the proposed Renewable Heating Incentive Scheme, which is another attractive funding stream currently out for consultation by the Government, click here.
- Installer Training
Kensa does not require potential installers to spend endless days training in a classroom environment. Simply speaking, there is no need. The installation process is straightforward. In a project where the heat pump serves the space heating, two pipes feed in from the ground arrays – via a pre-engineered Kensa manifold – to the heat pump and connect using John Guest Speedfit connections. Two pipes then feed out to the heat distribution system and, with a small amount of wiring, all supported by detailed drawings, the installation is complete. All work that requires no training.
Although the product does not require specialist training to install, Kensa do provide awareness training of heat pumps where the application (which is key) is discussed and it is recommend if you wish to specialise in renewables that you attend this course.
- Application and Technical Support
The more challenging element of any project is the ‘application engineering’ – matching the heat pump to the ground arrays (Slinkies in horizontal trenches or pipework in vertical boreholes) and the heating and DHW (if required) demands of the property.
As an engineering business, Kensa has unrivalled experience and expertise, having manufactured its first heat pump in 1999. Kensa can help ensure that the installation and integration of the heat pump runs smoothly.
