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Uponor UK
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District Heating Networks

Environmentally friendly, cost-effective and more continuous heating.

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What are District Heat Networks in the UK?

Quite simply, a district heat network can be described as being "a network of pre-insulated pipes which supply hot water from an energy centre to an end users’ home, commercial property or any other multiple residency dwellings". The energy sources can vary, but they tend to be either a power station, biomass/biogas-fueled boilers or a heat pump.

A larger district heat network can supply hot water to a whole community in an energy-efficient way. For example, heat is not wasted along the network as supply can be directed towards an area in high demand. An overall network can be increased where necessary by adding more heat sources.

Uponor UK supplies Pre-insulated pipes for District Heat Networks

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Ecoflex

Ecoflex is our range of pre-insulated pipes, which provide a flexible method for supplying hot water within a district heating network. What's more, they offer up to a 40 % improvement in heat losses compared to alternatives.

Other benefits include:
  • Complete system: Source to building, heating & cooling.
  • Lightweight, flexible pipes ideal for central systems (above & below ground).
  • Works with any heat source (power plants, boilers, etc.).
  • Expert support: Training, design, delivery, on-site.
  • 30+ years, 35M+ meters installed globally.

Energy Plan provides a guide on how District Heating Schemes work

What are the benefits of District Heating Networks?

There are multiple benefits of District Heating Networks. Some of the key advantages are summarised below:

Cost

Overall savings can be achieved, as less electricity is required as a power source. Utilising Uponor UK's Ecoflex Pre-insulated pipes will also lead to cost savings in comparison to steel pipes for all parties.

Environmentally friendly

According to the ADE, heat networks can reduce carbon emissions in buildings by around 0.7m tonnes of CO2 each year. This is due to the fact that less heat is wasted.

Security of supply

As a district heating network utilises multiple energy sources, there is a greater continuity of supply and less risk of failure

Useful resources about District Heating Systems

ADE infographic on heat networks

ADE infographic on heat networks

Understand the heat network market and potential benefits

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ADE Market Report 2018

ADE Market Report 2018

The ADE provide a report into heat networks within the UK

PDF 2 MB
Download document

Connecting a Heat Interface Unit to a pre-insulated pipe within a home can result in further energy savings

Uponor combi port B10003P

Heat Interface Units

Find out more about how you can benefit from up to 40% energy savings in your home by installing a Heat Interface Unit.

HIU information

District Heating FAQs


Are district heating systems eco-friendly?

Yes, district heating can be more environmentally friendly than conventional boilers. By using CHP plants and other low-carbon heat sources, they can reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

What are the problems with district heat networks?

Past concerns include inefficiency due to poorly designed systems. Modern district heating networks address this by using well-insulated pipes and optimised heat production methods.

Will the heat be reliable?

Well-maintained district heating systems provide reliable heat. Some may argue they are more reliable than individual boilers which can break down unexpectedly.

Can I control the heat in my home with a district heating system?

Yes, individual heat interface units (HIUs) within homes allow you to control the temperature and hot water usage.