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CASE STUDY 2

An eco-friendly solution to reduce energy bills and improve overall comfort in the home...
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1. Introduction

In 2023, the Bradleys purchased a historic 600-year-old cottage in Cookham High Street, which required extensive renovations to meet modern living standards. Given the building's listed status, the refurbishment needed to be sympathetic to its historical features while addressing significant energy inefficiencies.

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2. Context

Building Description:

  • Age and Significance: The cottage, dating back 600 years, is recognized for its historical value, necessitating careful planning and execution of any renovations.

  • Existing Heating Issues: The sole heating system - a poorly installed electric underfloor heating - was both ineffective and expensive, leading to damp issues in many walls.

 

3. Objectives

The Bradleys aimed to:

  • Install an eco-friendly heating solution.

  • Reduce energy bills and improve overall comfort in the home.

  • Ensure all renovations were compliant with preservation guidelines.

 

4. Methodology

Site Assessment:

  • Evaluated existing heating and insulation conditions.

  • Identified areas prone to damp and heat loss.

Planning and Design:

  • Selected breathable natural wool insulation to enhance thermal efficiency without compromising the building’s integrity.

  • Planned for bespoke fittings to allow for future maintenance of the system.

 

5. Implementation

Renovation Work:

  • Insulated all accessible areas of the cottage.

  • Restored all windows and fitted a new front door.

  • Reconfigured the airing cupboard to accommodate a 150-litre Vaillant Unistor pre-plumbed cylinder, ensuring future maintenance accessibility.

Heating Installation:

  • Installed a 5kW Vaillant Arotherm Plus air source heat pump in the garden, using Ecoflex Thermo Twin insulated piping buried underground to maintain garden aesthetics.

  • The installation was carried out by SLM Property Solutions Ltd. under the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, securing a grant of £7,500 with no VAT.

 

6. Results

  • Energy Efficiency: The Bradleys accessed a cheaper energy rate from Octopus Energy, significantly reducing their monthly bills by over 50%.

  • Electricity Consumption: Monthly electricity usage dropped from 1,200 kWh in October last year to 453.4 kWh this October.

 

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