Information

Around 90% of the electrical energy we use is from AC power.

AC stands for ‘alternating current’, which indicates the current constantly changes direction.

In the Uk, Mains electricity is about 230 volts on an AC supply.

It has a frequency of 50Hz (50 hertz), meaning it switches direction and back again 50 times a second.

AC is better for transporting electrical current over long lengths, so we use it to power our homes, offices and industrial machines.

AC Power is delivered in either a Single or Three Phase system.

What does ‘Phase’ in Electricity mean?

In electricity, the term “Phase” refers to a fundamental characteristic of alternating current (AC) that quantifies the number of electrical cycles occurring within a single second. This measurement helps us understand the frequency of AC power.

To determine the phase of an AC system, we often divide its frequency into discrete parts. Consider the following examples:

• A standard AC power system in many parts of the world operates at 60 Hz. When we divide this frequency by itself (60 ÷ 60), the result is 1. This means that within each second, there are 60 complete electrical cycles or oscillations, transitioning back and forth from positive to negative voltage (or current) and back to zero.
• Alternatively, if we consider a system with a frequency of 120 Hz, dividing 120 by 120 also yields 1. In this case, 120 electrical cycles take place within each second.

A single-phase (1-phase) has less power, requiring two wires, while a three-phase (3-phase) requires more, including three or four wires.

What is Single Phase Power Supply?

Single-phase is the most familiar system used in homes.

In power distribution, a single-phase uses the Phase and neutral wires. The phase wire carries the current load, while the neutral wire provides a path where the current returns. It is distributed in which all the supply voltages vary in unison.

It creates a single sine wave (low voltage). The standard voltage for a single-phase power starts at 230V. Also, its frequency approximates to 50Hz.

Single Phase Supply Applications

The applications of single-phase supply include the following:

• It is used to supply power for homes and non-industrial businesses.
• Can run the motors up to about five horsepower (hp).

Single Phase Advantages And Disadvantages

Advantages

The advantages of choosing a single-phase supply include the following:

• It is the standard power supply for almost all residential properties as domestic devices such as lights, coolers, heaters, fans, small air conditioners etc.
• The design and operation are often simple.
• A single-phase supply is sufficient for loads up to 2500 Watts (Depending on the region) and is the most efficient AC power supply for up to 1000 watts.
• Fast installation of the single-phase distribution system
• It does not require the balancing of the load.
• A vast collection of applications uses

Disadvantages

The disadvantages of choosing a single-phase supply include the following:

• Low efficiency
• Poor power factor. Additionally, we have to install a capacitor bank.
• Frequent power failure and requires additional inverters to maintain the power failure
• Cannot run heavy loads.

What is Three-Phase Power Supply?

Three-phase electric power is an AC Power type commonly used in industrial and business settings.

 A three-phase supply is used to run the high loads, such as large induction motors, other electric motors, and other heavy loads.

A 3-phase system is a polyphase system with three power wires (or four, including an optional neutral return wire), each 120⁰ out of Phase with the other.

When a cycle of 360⁰ is completed, three phases of power peak in voltage twice.

The three-phase system can also be used as a single-phase system when using a low load by taking one phase and a neutral.

Three Phase Supply Applications

The applications of the three-phase supply include the following:

• Used in power grids, mobile towers, aircraft, shipboard, and other electronic loads larger than 1000 watts.
• Preferred power supply in industrial, manufacturing, and large businesses.
• High-density data centres.

Three Phase Advantages And Disadvantages

Advantages

The advantages of selecting a three-phase supply include the following:

• Less loss of power faults
• The efficiency of the Conductor is Greater.
• Facility to Run High Power Loads
• A three-phase power supply uses less wire than a single-phase power supply for the same power.
• To run commercial and industrial loads.
• Almost all the power is generated in three-phase power.
• The overall efficiency of the three-phase supply is better when compared to the same load on a single-phase power supply.

Disadvantages

The disadvantages of choosing a Three-Phase supply include the following:

• Cannot handle the overload, which may damage the equipment, resulting in higher costly repairs.
• Due to the high voltage, a three-phase power connection requires high insulation costs.

Single Vs Three Phase Power Supplies

Here are the essential differences between a single-phase and three-phase connection.

• In a single-phase, the flow of Electricity is through a single conductor, whereas a three-phase connection consists of three separate conductors.
• The voltage in a Single Phase may reach up to 230 Volts, while Three Phases can carry up to 415 Volts.
• Single-phase connection requires two separate wires. One represents the neutral wire, and the other represents a single phase. Three Phase requires one neutral and three-phase cables to complete the circuit.
• Single-phase connection has one phase wire, which means the complete power supply gets interrupted if anything happens to the network. However, if anything happens to a single-phase, the other phases still work in a three-phase power supply. As such, there is no power interruption.
• A three-phase supply needs fewer conductors than a single-phase power supply for the same circuit.

Uk Mains Voltage

The electrical supply we link to is delivered from a generating station or renewable power source through the National Grid. 

Electricity’s voltage is reduced through sub-stations as electricity moves through the grid.

It is eventually into the three Phase and single-phase power supplies we use.

The International Electrotechnical Commission groups the voltages (in IEC 60038) into the following categories:

• Low Voltage (LV) up to 1000Vac
• Medium Voltage (MV) from 1000V to 35kVac
• High Voltage (HV) from 35 to 230kVac
• Extremely High Voltage (-) above 230kVac

In 1995, electricity supply voltages in Western Europe were harmonised to 230Vac single Phase and 400Vac three Phase.

In the UK, the standard single-phase mains power supply voltage was 240Vac. The standard three-phase mains power supply voltage was 415Vac.

Difference between Single and Three Phase Power Table

Single Phase	Three Phase
The flow of Electricity is through a single conductor	The flow needs three separate conductors
Voltage may reach up to 230 Volts	Voltage can reach up to 415 Volts.
The two wires (conductors) in a single-phase system are called Phase and Neutral.	The three wires (conductors) in a three-phase system are called phases.
As there is only a single wire, there is only one AC Signal	All three wires carry an AC signal, and are 120° apart.
Power delivery in a single-phase supply is inconsistent due to peaks and dips in voltage.	The power delivery in a three-phase supply is always steady due to the peaks and dips being compensated by each other.
Less efficient than a three-phase supply for the same power delivery	More efficient as it can deliver three times the power than a single-phase power supply with just one additional wire
Served to residential and domestic needs	Served to large commercial centres and industries.
As there is only one phase, chance of fault is higher	Even if there is a fault in one or two phases, the remaining Phases will continue to deliver power

Electrical Services At Varlowe

Varlowe’s electrical engineers are well experienced in working with both single and three phase systems.

Our Electrical department delivers nationwide support for clients in both commercial and industrial sectors.

For more information, please visit our electrical service page, or call us on 01902 861042.

Renewable Energy Types

In 2019, the UK Government revealed it would end its contribution to global warming by 2050. 

It is the first major economy to pass such laws on the road to net zero. 

Reaching net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions will need changes across the economy. 

Owners of commercial buildings face more standards and rules to boost carbon reduction. 

One key area to work on is heating and hot water, as they create nearly a third (32%) of the total carbon emissions in the UK. A significant contributor to a building’s carbon footprint. 

Renewable energy is one of the many options available to work toward the new goal, such as- 

• Wind Farms 
• Solar Farms
• Hydroelectric Power Stations 
• Combined Heat And Power  
• Biomass Plants 
• Heat Pumps

Many are starting to turn to heat pumps as a green energy alternative. They can diminish your overall GHG emissions by up to 80%. 

Heat pumps can heat up to 165°C without emitting direct emissions to provide a comfortable working environment.  

The Energy Savings Trust estimate that a ground source heat pump could save around £3,000 per annum. 

The UK government also offers incentives to support businesses switching to sustainable heat generation, such as the Industrial Energy Transformation Fund.

You can see why they are becoming a popular, cost-effective answer to net-zero ambitions.

There are many things to consider when looking to implement on-site, sustainable heat generation. 

Before we go into the various types available, let’s go over the basics.

What Is A Heat Pump?

A heat pump is a standalone device that uses refrigeration technology and electricity to provide heating and cooling.

Most heating systems burn fuel, such as Gas, to create heat. But heat pumps don’t generate heat.

Instead, they move existing heat energy from outside into your building.

Heat pumps provide more heat energy than the electrical power they consume, making them more efficient than other heating methods.

We can also combine with other renewable systems such as solar panels to supply the electricity needed to run the heat pump.

They also do not burn fossil fuels which makes them more environmentally friendly.

However, they are costly to install.

Prices depend on the system, building type and size, but will inevitably be more than a gas boiler.

Heat pumps can significantly save your fuel bills despite the initial cost.

21% of the UK’s carbon emissions are from Gas heating. The government have announced that no new gas boilers will be sold after 2035.

How Do Heat Pumps Work?

Everything around us holds heat that naturally flows from a warmer place to a colder one.

A heat pump pulls the warmth from the ground, air or water, creating hot air and water.

They are able to heat a building more efficiently, while being better for the environment than traditional gas boilers.

But how does it work?

Let’s break down the process into steps:

1. The source of heat (extracted from air, ground or water) is either blown or pumped over the heat exchange surface of the outer part of the heat pump.
2. Although the air extracted is cool, it is warm enough to cause a special refrigerant liquid to evaporate and become a gas.
3. The heat pump uses electricity to squeeze this gas. When the pressure increases, the temperature rises (and vice versa for cooling).
4. The heat passed over the heat exchange surface is delivered around the building via ceiling and wall fans or transferred to a conventional central heating and hot water system.
5. The gas temperature drops as the heat passes through the exchanger, which returns it to a liquid state.
6. The refrigerant is cold enough to absorb more heat from outside and begin the process again until sufficient heat is passed into the building.

Benefit Of Having A Heat Pump?

Many financial and environmental benefits are associated with heat pump installations, which is why they have become very popular over the last decade.

Let us go over some of the significant benefits:

Lower Running Costs

They cost less to run than combustion-based systems. 

The more energy-efficient the systems are, the more significant long-term energy savings. 

Less Maintenance

They require very little maintenance. A once-a-year check is all it needs but will require a professional to check every three or five years.

Superior efficiency 

The average heat pump has an efficiency rating of 300%, while gas boilers have an average efficiency rating of around 90%.

Reduces Carbon Emissions

They have an efficient conversion rate of energy to heat while reducing your carbon emissions, as it burns no fossil fuels. 

Considering that around 40% of electricity generation in the UK is produced via renewables, it’s better for the environment than gas boilers.

And with the government’s legal obligation to reach carbon neutrality by 2050, this is likely to improve further.

Produces Warm & Cold Air

They can operate as both cooling and heating, saving you from needing two different units.

A heat pump is a suitable choice for an all-in-one HVAC system.

Long Life-Span

The working life of a heat pump varies depending on the model you have installed. They range from 15 to 20 years, much higher than a traditional combustion unit.

8 Years	The average lifespan of a boiler
15 Years	The average lifespan of an Air Source Heat Pump
20 years	The average lifespan of a Ground Source Heat Pump

Health Advantages

They improve air quality by filtering the air and dehumidifying your environment. 

Good indoor air quality is essential because it can help prevent sickness and health complications.

Eligible for RHI Scheme

The government provides two types of programs to install renewable heat systems, The Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (Domestic RHI) and the Non-domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (Non-Domestic RHI).

The Domestic RHI scheme addresses homeowners, social and private landlords, and self-builders. 

Non-Domestic RHI is available to the public sector.

The Downside Of Heat Pumps

Heat pumps have many benefits, but it doesn’t come without their list of cons.

Listed below are some drawbacks to consider.

High Upfront Cost

They will have a considerable upfront cost that can be overlooked when looking at operating costs, long-term savings, and reduced carbon emissions.

Difficult to Install

Air source heat pumps are straightforward, but ground sources are more complex.

If the pipework for your heat pump is installed horizontally, it will be around one to two metres below the surface. 

However, for a horizontal system to be installed, you need around 200 to 400 m2 of land.

If space is restricted, A vertical system is needed, which goes up to 150 metres below the ground.

Research is also required to understand the movement of heat and local geology.

The cost of electricity is currently much higher than gas, meaning it has a high running economy. If misused or in a building with poor thermal efficiency, the running costs can be extremely high, especially in comparison to the gas. For example, electricity costs 3-16p per kWh compared to gas’ 3-4 per kWh.

Questionable Sustainability

Some of the used fluids are of questionable sustainability, which has raised environmental concerns. 

However, you can switch out these fluids and opt to use biodegradable fluids.

Not Efficient When The Temperatures Drop

When temperatures fall to freezing outside, they can struggle to provide the heat source needed.  

Using a backup heating system to take over the heat pump in extreme conditions is possible but can raise your utility bills.

Moreover, at low temperatures, heat pumps can go into defrost mode quite often. The auxiliary heat takes centre stage during this cycle, reducing the overall efficiency by about 10%.

There are opportunities for an upgraded heat pump system to fix these issues. However, they cost significantly more.

Always check the Seasonal Performance Factor (SPF) of your unit.

Not Entirely Carbon Neutral

Heat pumps rely on electricity to operate, making it difficult to be entirely carbon neutral. However, they generally have a high Coefficient of Performance (COP), which means they’re more efficient as the outside air gets cooler.

Planning Permissions Required

You will need special planning permissions In Wales and Northern Ireland to install a heat pump. 

In England and Scotland, it depends on the area and overall size of your building.

The Efficiency Of A Heat Pump

An essential benefit of a heat pump is the energy-efficient heating procedure.

Ground and air source units can exceed efficiencies of 300% since they transfer heat rather than generate it.

However, holding this efficiency level is vital for heat pumps to be beneficial.

Efficiency is just one way to compare various heating systems.

Measuring Heat Pumps Efficiency

Measuring a heat pump’s efficiency can be done using several different methods.

These methods show how efficiently they can perform in cooling, heating, and overall energy output.

Below, you can find different efficiency terms related to heat pumps.

Coefficient of Performance (CoP)

The Coefficient of Performance (CoP) is one of the most common measurements to rate a heat pump.

It shows how efficiently heat pump systems can heat a building under the best possible conditions.

COP is the heating/cooling output ratio to the energy it takes to run the machine.

Heat pumps have no set CoP as they vary depending on multiple variables, but each will have a datasheet telling you what its measured CoP is.

A high COP over 1.0 means your heat pump performs at a high-efficiency level.

A heat pump is the only heating machine with a COP over 1.0.

In simple terms, the heat pumps can deliver 4 and 5 units of heat for every unit of electricity.

If we compare that to electric heaters, they operate at around 100% efficiency, which is 1 unit of electricity that delivers 1 unit of heat.

Commercial air source heat pumps can be as high as 4, and ground source heat pumps can reach 5.

Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCoP)

Heat pumps can experience temperature variations throughout the year due to rising and falling throughout the seasons. 

This means the CoP is not always practical in understanding the cost of running the heat pump.

Seasonal Performance Factor (SPF), or The Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCoP), is a year-round and more realistic measurement based on CoP under different conditions and a standardised climate.

It is a ratio between the annual heat energy output and the annual electric energy input. 

The SPF depends on the heat pump’s efficiency, COP, the local climatic conditions, and the integration of the heat pump into the building.

The SPF will give you a better representation of what to expect in terms of operating costs and efficiency than the CoP figure.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER)

SEER is the rating used to indicate the unit’s cooling output during a cooling season. 

When estimating the EER, energy experts generally factor in static outdoor and indoor temperatures and 50% relative humidity. 

An energy-efficient heat pump will typically be somewhere between 11 and 14 EER.

With a higher EER, the system’s efficiency is better, lowering your carbon footprint.

The EER rating helps consumers determine the air conditioning ability of a heat pump. The government also sets minimum averages for how well a heat pump should perform air conditioning functions.

Cooling energy is always measured in British thermal units (BTU) and represents the amount of energy needed to raise the temperature. 

To calculate SEER you must take the total cooling provided, BTU, divided by the total amount of electricity used, Watts, over the same period.

The Heating Seasonal Performance Factor 

HSPF is the same efficiency measure as the SEER but in heating mode.

Very low temperatures can cause heat pumps to perform less effectively. 

The HSPF score will show you which heat pumps are your best bet during the most chilly winter days. It will allow you to plan your backup heating solution accordingly. 

Comparing Efficiency To Non-Renewable Sources

For comparison, other kinds of heat generation have the subsequent efficiencies:

• Conventional gas/oil boiler: 70-80% efficiency
• Condensing gas/oil boiler: 90-96% efficiency
• Direct electric heating: 35-45% efficiency (with losses in generation and distribution)

How Long Do Heat Pumps Last?

Heat pumps are typically long-lasting if there are maintained and serviced correctly. 

Older models of heat pumps had an average life expectancy of around 15 years. 

Thanks to several technological evolutions, modern heat pumps last around 20-25 years before they need replacing.

Usually, the first thing to fail is the compressor due to burnout, as the component rarely stands idle. 

A faulty compressor raises the temperature of the refrigerant within the heat pump. 

Depending on the age of the heat pump, it might be more economical to replace the entire system or just the compressor itself.

Different Types of Heat Pumps

Heat Pumps help organisations to lower their carbon emissions and energy spending. 

But how do you choose between air, ground or water? 

Let’s take a look at each:

Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP)

The most familiar type of heat pump is the air-source heat pump.

The fan-powered unit extracts warmth from the outside air using a small amount of electricity. The extracted air runs through a compressor (also known as a heat exchanger), which raises the temperature. 

The pump needs electricity to operate but uses less than the heat it delivers. Because of this, it reduces the overall carbon emissions.

The amount of heat they can create relies on the size of the unit. Most commercial ASHP can be set up in a cascade configuration to provide on-demand space heating, hot water and active cooling.

Overall, ASHP is up to 300% efficient. A commercial gas boiler typically sits around 90 to 100%.

Advantages and Disadvantages of ASHP 

Advantages

• Currently eligible for government grants (RHI)
• High SCOP
• Space heating and hot water
• Air sources can be used for heating and cooling
• Long lifespan
• Low maintenance and maintenance costs
• Easier installation
• Possible to improve efficiency by using the waste heat
• Potential to incorporate heat storage

Disadvantages

• Efficiency is highly dependent on ambient conditions.
• Reduced thermal energy management
• Low efficiency of the system can impact the business case.
• Most insufficient lifetime carbon savings of all heat pump source options
• ASHP’ can be noisy

Ground Source Heat Pumps

The outside air isn’t the only place to draw valuable heat to warm our houses.

Ground Source heat pumps can utilise the solar energy stored in the ground via heat pipes buried into the earth.

Also called geothermal heat pumps, they use water and antifreeze pumped into the ground.

The constant temperature of the ground continuously warms up the antifreeze mixture.

The fluid feeds into a heat exchanger, and the energy absorbed is transferred to a refrigerant.

The refrigerant boils at a low temperature until it turns into a gas.

The gas is compressed, which raises the temperature.

GSHP have higher efficiencies than air-sourced heat pumps as the temperatures in the ground are generally more constant.

With every kW of electricity the pump uses, around 3-4 kW of heat gets generated.

With that in mind, the GSHP has, on average, a Coefficient of Performance (COP) of 3.5 to 4.5.

The trade-off with greater efficiency is that they are usually more expensive to install. Most of the cost is the excavation work needed to lay the piping.

The piping can be applied in two different ways, Horizontal or Vertical.

Horizontal Ground Source Heat Pump

The most cost-effective way to pull warmth from the ground is through horizontal loops of plastic pipe.

The trenches in which the pipes sit are usually 1 meter deep, around 4 meters apart, and about 100-150 meters long.

Vertical Ground Source Heat Pump

Vertical GSHPs are more costly when there is not enough space to apply the pipes horizontally. 

This is due to the requirement of specialist equipment to create the borehole.

The boreholes must be at least 6m apart and range from 50 to 50 m deep. 

Open And Closed Loops Systems

An open-loop geothermal system pipes clean groundwater directly from a nearby aquifer to an indoor geothermal heat pump.

The water leaves and is expelled through a discharge well located a suitable distance from the first.

Depending on local regulations, the water may be directed into a local pond or approved drainage ditch.

Because open-loop systems utilise water on a “once-through” basis, they are often referred to as “pump and dump” systems.

A closed-loop geothermal method continuously distributes a heat transfer solution through the buried (or submerged if in water) plastic pipes.

These pipes connect to an indoor heat pump which provides heating and cooling.

Closed-loop systems are often cheaper to install because the loop only needs to be filled once. However, open-loop systems can achieve greater efficiencies.

Advantages and Disadvantages of GSHP 

Advantages

• Significantly increased seasonal performance over air-source
• A more significant reduction in associated carbon emissions
• The ground loop system enables seasonal thermal balancing.
• GSHPs require less maintenance than combustion-based heating systems.
• Low carbon emissions (no carbon emissions at all, if a renewable source of electricity is used to power them).

Disadvantages

• The process of drilling boreholes can be disruptive
• High installation costs
• More challenging to retrofit on a current site

Water Source Heat Pump (WSHP)

Water source heat pumps have been around since the late 1940s. 

They are often considered more efficient because heat transfers better in water.

Temperatures in water are generally more stable throughout the year. Therefore, water source heat pumps can reach reasonably high efficiencies of 300% to 600%. Air sources hit around 175% to 250% on cool days.

A WSHP can take two kilowatts of free heat from the water and one kilowatt of electricity to produce three kilowatts of heat. 

It uses a series of submerged pipes which contains a special fluid to absorb the heat from a river, lake, large pond or borehole. 

Advantages and Disadvantages of WSHP 

Advantages

• Seasonal performance can be better than ground-source
• A larger reduction in carbon emissions
• Works well with other heating systems
• Retrofitted
• Can use the water source to supply ‘free cooling.’

Disadvantages

• Must be near a sustainable source of water
• Special planning permissions needed

Heat Pump Maintenance

Commercial Heat pumps are reliable and require minimum maintenance, offering maximum peace of mind.

A well-installed, good-quality ground or air source heat pump will typically come with 25 years’ worth of performance, with no loss of efficiency.

Compared to the average boiler, they can lose up to 2% efficiency per year, with a life span of 12 years [Which? 2015]).

Your supplier/installer should provide details about your heat pump’s exact maintenance requirements and how it can be optimised.

As a general rule of thumb, to ensure proper functionality, you should have your installation checked annually by a qualified engineer.

Most ground and air source heat pumps come with a standard five to ten-year warranty on labour and parts.

Air Source Heat Pump Maintenance

Air Source Heat Pumps don’t need much ongoing maintenance. 

While each ASHP is different, there aren’t many maintenance differences. 

Manufacturers still advise owners about what their systems require regarding seasonal or annual maintenance.

Some maintenance tasks you can perform yourself to ensure that your system operates as intended:

• Clean fans and foils (if need be)
• Swap out or clean filters
• Clean the system’s supply
• Un-block Airflow debris (dust, leaves, etc.)
• Check and clean the fan blades

Before winter or summer, if you use your heat pump for cooling, it’s recommended to have it serviced by an expert. 

A qualified expert conducts a more comprehensive audit of the system’s components. The engineers can better pinpoint issues that could degrade a heat pump’s performance that users wouldn’t spot or diagnose.

These checks involve the following:

• Checking refrigerant pressure and levels
• Reviewing ducts and correcting them if required
• Measuring airflow
• Inspecting ducts, coils, filters and blowers for any debris that could impede airflow
• Checking for system leaks
• Examining electrical connections
• Lubricating motors
• Checking reverse cooling/heating controls and ensuring they’re operating as required
• Studying and testing thermostats under normal operating conditions

Unlike other types of renewable energy technologies, air source heat pumps generally don’t require the replacement of costly parts during their lifespan.

Ground Source Heat Pump Maintenance

Although ground source heat pumps require little maintenance, they still need yearly checkups by a professional. This is to ensure that they function within their tolerances.

Large commercial pumps are subject to stricter maintenance requirements.

Most GSHP will last for more than 25 years, with most continuing to operate without a hitch well beyond this period.

Although, an underperforming heat pump could lose up to 25 per cent of its efficiency in operating energy consumption.

If a ground source system’s thermostat is set very low, it can cause the system to use the costly auxiliary heater.

As a result, the unit will use more than the usual energy to operate.

The manufacturers will specify a unit’s recommended service and maintenance schedules in their documentation.

Here is an overview of the primary parts that need checking:

• The compressor – if it fails, the entire thing will have to be replaced as it’s a sealed unit
• The control equipment and electronics
• Above-ground pipes and connectors
• The water pump – which is the only movable part of the system
• The bleed system, radiators, and system fluid
• Coolant/antifreeze fluid in the ground array – it is advisable that you check if the chemical mixture is correct

It is worth noting that “F” gas certified engineers can only work on devices designed to contain or contain F-Gas refrigerants. 

Since ground source heat pumps have very few components making up the system, it is currently one of the most efficient heating methods.

Common FAQ’s

Varlowe’s Commercial Heating Service

Varlowe provides a nationwide Commercial Heating Service Based out of our head office in the West Midands.

Our commercial gas engineers can provide renewable heating solutions to help you reduce your carbon footprint and energy bills. They have the expertise to ensure you receive the highest service standards.

For more information, please visit our Commercial Heating Services page, or call us on 01902 861042.

We also have a blog post “Different types of commercial heating systems” if you want more information on heating types.

There are many Welding types, each with its advantages and disadvantages. 

It’s essential to learn each as each will be more suited to a particular job.

More than 30 different welding types exist, ranging from simple oxy-fuel to high-tech processes such as laser beam welding.

What Is Welding? 

Welding is a fabrication process that uses intense heat, pressure, or both to combine two materials, such as two pieces of pipe.

Various welding methods exist for different purposes and use varying techniques, weld positions and other methods.

For more information on Welding, please visit our blog post “What Is Welding?” which provides an in-depth explanation of each welding type.

Types Of Welding

There are multiple types of welding available today, from manual to fully automated. 

The four most common types used here at Varlowe are:

• Metal Inert Gas (MIG)
• Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)  
• Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG)
• Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW Or Stick)

Let’s look into each of them in more detail.

Metal Inert Gas (MIG or GMAW)

MIG welding is a popular and one of the most accessible welding types.

The semi-automated process developed in the 1940s is a subtype of GMAW (Gas metal arc welding).

MIG is one of several welding methods that use electricity to join metal together. It requires a Direct Current Positive Electrode (DCEP), also called Reverse Polarity.

It appeals to more people due to its more manageable learning curve. Once the correct settings to the torch and wire feeder are in place, it doesn’t need much to create clean joints.

How Does MIG Welding Work?

MIG is an arc welding process where a constant solid wire electrode feeds from a solid wire reel into a welding gun.

The solid wire is a metal wire that doesn’t contain any flux, meaning that you must use a shielding gas. The wire is coated in copper to help reduce oxidization and prevent rusting, but it may also include manganese, titanium, and silicon.

The wire serves a multi-purpose in the process. It is the heat source and the filler metal for the joint. Hence, MIG Welding can also be referred to as “wire welding”.

The wire feeds through a contact tube made of copper (the contact tip), which conducts current into the wire.

An arc forms between the wire electrode and the metal being worked on when the trigger gets pulled, forming the weld pool.

MIG welding uses a shielding gas to guard the filler material against environmental elements, depending on the welded material. A nozzle that surrounds the wire delivers the gas.

MIG welding is semi-automatic because a power source controls the wire fed rate and the arc length. The operator manually controls the speed of travel and the position of the wire.

What is MIG Welding Used For?

MIG is used for high production welding operations, such as in shops and factories. Its weld quality, long pass capability, speed and increased productivity make MIG welding a top choice. 

MIG welding is renowned for its great applicability to metals and alloys. Metals such as mild steel, stainless steel, aluminium and magnesium.

Indoor environments are ideal for MIG because it requires clean surfaces and windless conditions. Otherwise, the gas shielding will be disrupted, allowing reactions and imperfections in the weld. 

Typically, Mig welding machines are not very portable and more complex. In addition, shielding gas, electrodes, and replacement tips and nozzles for MIG welding can add up.

Advantages Of MIG Welding

• Higher Productivity
• Simple to Learn
• Excellent Welds
• Clean and Efficient
• Versatile
• Faster Welding Speed

Disadvantages Of MIG Welding

• Limited Positions
• Unsuitable for Outdoor Welding
• Unsuitable for Thick Metals
• Metal Preparation Time
• Can Be Costly

Alternate Names for MIG Welding

• Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW)
• Metal Active Gas (MAG) 
• Wire Welding

Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)  

FCAW is a variant of the MIG/MAG method. 

Both techniques use the same semi-automatic, continuous wire feed machines. Both methods have a very high production rate.

Although there are a lot of similarities, there are a lot of differences. Several things make each better than the other.

The main difference between flux-core and MIG welding is that flux-core does not need a shielding gas.

A flux-cored wire consists of a tubular filler metal with a powdered flux in the centre of the wire. The flux acts as shielding, allowing the operator to weld outdoors when it is windy.

How Does FCAW Work?

Flux-Cored uses the heat generated by an electric arc to fuse the metal.

The arc’s struck between the continuously fed consumable filler wire and the workpiece. The arc melts both the filler wire and the workpiece.

When this wire melts, it creates a gas that protects from oxygen, meaning a shielding gas isn’t required. Although, one can be used to offer more protection.

There are two FCAW operating modes:

• Gas-shielded – An external source supplies a shielding gas, such as a gas cylinder.
• Self-shielding – The shielding gas is from the internal flux within the wire.

What Is FCAW Used For?

FCAW is a highly productive and flexibly welding process.

It works well with a range of alloys, plain carbon, stainless and duplex steels and is also frequently used for surfacing and hard facing.

The high deposition rate provides high-quality welds with a good appearance even at high welding speed and can be used in all positions.

FCAW can also be readily performed outdoors, even in windy conditions, making it a popular method in the construction sector.

Advantages Of FCAW Welding

• High-Quality Welds
• It can be used at high speed due to improved arc stability
• FCAW is excellent for joining thicker metals
• Used in all positions
• Higher wire deposition rates
• It can be used outdoors
• Less pre-cleaning required
• Low porosity, if implemented correctly

Disadvantages Of FCAW Welding

• Produces noxious smoke
• Generates more smoke than other processes
• FCAW electrodes need better handling and storage practices
• The filler material can be more expensive
• Need to remove Slag
• Cant be used on materials thinner than 20 gauge. 

Alternate Names for FCAW Welding

• Dual Shield Welding

Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG or GTAW)

TIG Welding (Tungsten Inert Gas) is an arc-based welding process that produces the weld with a non-consumable tungsten electrode.

Developed in the 1940s, it quickly became a popular welding type when it joined magnesium and aluminium. Today it is commonly used for welding stainless steel and non-ferrous materials (e.g. aluminium, magnesium and copper alloys).

It is highly versatile, but it is also one of the more difficult welding techniques to learn.

TIG uses an inert gas shield instead to protect the weld pool. The process was a suitable replacement for gas and manual metal arc welding.

TIG has played a significant role in accepting aluminium for high-quality welding and structural applications.

How TIG Welding Works

TIG welding uses electricity to generate an arc via a tungsten-based electrode located in the welding torch. The arc creates heat which is required to join the metals.

The process also requires a shielding gas, generally Argon, to protect the weld metal from contamination. The welding torch also delivers the shielding gas.

The TIG process needs more experience as there are a lot of variables to control.

For example, You need to coordinate the interaction of a hand-held TIG torch with a filler rod and vary the electrical current. The electrode must be the correct distance from the weld, and both kept in the shielding gas.

This torch creates the heat and arc for welding most conventional metals, including aluminium, steel, nickel alloys, copper alloys, cobalt, and titanium.

A Non-Consumable Tungsten Electrode

The electrode used in TIG is tungsten or a tungsten alloy. The melting point of tungsten is 3,422 °C, the highest temperature among pure metals.

Unlike MIG welding, the high melting point of a TIG welding tungsten electrode signifies that it won’t melt during welding. Instead, the arc from the electrode melts the parent metal. 

At the same time, the arc also melts a welding rod of filler metal to form the weld bead.

Inert Shielding Gas

The job of the inert shielding gas is to protect the molten weld pool from atmospheric gases such as oxygen and nitrogen.

The atmospheric gases can cause defects, porosity and embrittlement if they contact the arc or welding metal.

The shielding gas can also help transfer heat from the electrode and helps to maintain a stable arc.

The gas is typically Argon or an argon mixture. Using Helium can provide faster welding under certain circumstances.

The welding machine provides the shielding gas to the TIG torch that holds the tungsten electrode. 

What Is TIG Welding Used For?

Many industries use TIG for welding thin workpieces, especially non-ferrous metals.

While you can use a TIG welder for carbon steel, it’s efficient for other metals like stainless steel, aluminium, and titanium. 

A well-executed TIG weld is exceptionally high-quality and robust.

TIG can weld fragile metal sections, but as a slower process compared to MIG or arc welding.

TIG is a common type of welding for pipefitters working with high-pressure carbon or stainless pipes, automotive, food production and aerospace applications.

Advantages Of TIG Welding

• Varying Metal Thicknesses.
• Clean Welds 
• Used In All Positions (Vertical, Horizontal, Overhead)
• Minimal Smoke
• Colourless Shielding Gas
• Extremely Ductile 
• TIG welding machines can also perform stick welding 

Disadvantages Of TIG Welding

• Slow 
• Complex with a steeper learning curve 
• Only used in a wind-free environment.
• TIG welders are expensive

Alternate Names for TIG Welding

• GTAW – Gas Tungsten Arc Welding.

Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW or Stick)

Stick welding is a manual arc welding method. It uses a consumable electrode covered with a flux to lay the weld.

It is the oldest welding type, developed in Russia back in 1800, and arguably the most widely. The coated electrode came out of Sweden in the early 1900s.

Stick is a popular welding method due to its simple setup, portability, and cost-effectiveness.

Stick welding is very versatile to weld iron, steel, aluminium, nickel, and copper alloys. 

How Does Stick Welding Work?

Stick Welding uses a combination of electricity and consumable rod-shaped electrodes (welding rods) coated in flux to create the welded joint.

The flux coating means a shielding gas is unnecessary, unlike MIG and TIG.

Stick Welders require an earthing clamp (which attaches to the workpiece) connected to a ground cable.

When the electrode is brought into contact with the workpiece, it completes the circuit.

An electrical arc that creates intense heat melts both the electrode and the metal, causing it to fuse with the base metal.

The flux covering on the electrode breaks down due to the arc, giving off protective vapours that secure the welding process.

Flux slag on top of the weld pool helps shield against contamination and can be chipped away once cooled. This then reveals the finished weld joint.

Although stick can use AC and DC currents, DC is the preferred polarity for more traditional rods.

This polarity provides a more stable, smoother arc and a higher penetration level into the metal.

Stick performs well outdoors due to its portable design and can create an effective bond on rusty or unclean surfaces.

What Is Stick Welding Used For?

Stick is frequently used for heavy-duty work, including industrial iron, cast iron, and carbon steel. Its also used with low and high alloy nickel and steel alloys.

It’s typical to see stick used in structural applications. Due to its portability, stick is ideal for welding plates and beams together in hard to reach places. 

Due to the solid shielding flux being right at the arc, It’s also practical for exterior structural welding. 

Although less common, you can use Stick for welding stainless steel, aluminium, nickel, and copper alloys. 

Advantages Of Stick Welding

• Stick welding is practical even when it’s windy or raining
• The equipment required is not very expensive
• Very portable
• It doesn’t need an external shielding gas
• It’s less liable to paint, corrosion and dirt
• It’s easy to change rods for different applications

Disadvantages Of Stick Welding

• Stick welding is slow
• Extra work and time to chip away the slag
• Challenging to weld thinner metals
• You have to replace welding rods more often than other types of welding
• There can be excessive spatter, rough surfaces, and porosity
• Very smokey, dirty, and the fumes are toxic

Alternate Names for Stick Welding

• Arc Welding
• Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW)
• Manual Metal Arc Welding (MMA or MMAW)
• Flux Shielded Arc

Other Types Of Welding?

There are many other types of welding used today, such as:

• Submerged Arc Welding (SAW)
• Energy Beam Welding (EBW)
• Atomic Hydrogen Welding (AHW)
• Plasma Arc Welding.
• Electroslag

Quick Look Pros and Cons Table

Name	Pros	Cons
MIG welding – Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW)	MIG is excellent for welding large materials quickly. It is a beginner-friendly welding type.	MIG welds are not as precise, firm, or clean not as TIG welds. The workpiece must be free of any scale or rust.
TIG welding – Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW)	TIG is highly precise and versatile, letting you join a broad range of materials. It is excellent for welding non-ferrous metals.	TIG is hard to learn, making it slower with longer lead times and higher production costs.
Stick Welding – Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW)	Stick welding is versatile, cheap to start and easy to learn. Used on a variety of metal alloys.	You have to replace consumable electrodes often. Slag must be removed after welding, making it a slower process.
Flux Welding – Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)	Flux welding does not use a shielding gas, which can be used outdoors and in windy conditions, and it can also be used on a variety of metal alloys.	The filler material is more expensive than other arc welding types, and it also generates more fumes and smoke than different types of arc welding.
Submerged Arc Welding (SAW)	Submerged arc welding produces less spatter and lower levels of UV radiation. Can weld thicker materials very quickly due to high deposition rates	The weld can only be performed horizontally due to a layer of granular flux covering the weld pool. Initial costs for equipment are substantially higher due to the level of automation required.
Energy Beam Welding (EBW)	Energy beam welding can weld metals with different melting points and conductivities. It is precise and gives the welder control over the process.	Welds can bend and crack after the material has cooled.
Atomic Hydrogen Welding (AHW)	Atomic hydrogen is able to reach temperatures of up to 4000 °C, which can weld tungsten. Hydrogen prevents oxidation and contamination of the materials, and this process does not require flux.	Atomic hydrogen welding is replaced by gas metal arc welding because of inexpensive inert gases.
Oxy-acetylene Welding	An oxy-acetylene torch is lightweight, compact, and quiet. They can easily cut through ferrous materials up to 8 inches thick. You can use oxy-acetylene gas to cut, braze, and weld steel.	Acetylene fuel is more expensive compared to other fuels.
Plasma Arc Welding	Plasma welding torches give you great control over the arc and high-quality welds. Welds are clean, smooth, and strong.	Plasma welding gear is pricey. It is a more technical welding process and requires more time to train.

Industrial Welding Company

Varlowe Industrial Services specialize in all forms of welding types.

We provide a complete in house welding service for any need. 

Our Class 1 Coded Welders offer services nationwide to the Industrial And commercial sectors. You can also read our article “What is the meaning of coded welding“.

For more information, please visit our “Welding Services” page or give us a call on 01902 861042.

Industrial Pipe Fitting

Pipefitters install, maintain and repair various piping systems using advanced technical expertise and highly specialised skills.

They create safe and stable systems to ensure leak-free transportation of liquids/gases from the source to the point of use.

These substances range from essential utilities to high-pressure steam, hydraulic fluid, and highly volatile chemicals.

Pipefitters work in industrial environments like refineries, factories, and energy plants. They also provide valuable support to critical settings such as hospitals.

A lot of skills are needed in pipefitting, including:

• Communication
• Critical Thinking
• Teamwork
• Planning & Logistics
• Estimation
• Heavy Lifting
• Endurance
• Safety Protocol Adherence
• Cutting, Threading And Bending Pipe
• Welding

What Does a Pipe Fitter Do?

Primarily working in commercial, industrial and manufacturing settings, Pipefitters are responsible for installing, assembling, maintaining, and repairing piping systems.

They often plan systems and use various methods to install the pipe according to required specifications, typically in carbon steel, stainless steel, and metal alloys.

The engineers will also perform troubleshooting and repairs to ensure the system is fit for use.

Pipefitters use many skills to assemble and repair pipes, such as:

• Cutting
• Threading
• Brazing
• Bending
• Soldering
• Grooving
• Fabricating
• Tubing
• Welding

The pipe fit process is often in live buildings, meaning they work closely with the site management to coordinate logistics and accommodate others. 

Pipe Fitter Duties

A pipefitters daily workload can differ depending on their speciality and where they work. 

A typical day could look like this:

• Read And Plan Based On Engineering Drawings
• Fabricate Pipe Spools In A Workshop
• Install Pipework
• Planned Maintenance Checks
• Find And Fix Faults
• Emergency Call-outs

Pipefitters work with cooling, fuel transport, heating, scorching water, hydraulics, steam, and ventilation.

When the project involves pipe installation and assembly, they may be expected to shape the correct metals to fit that specific industrial use. 

The engineers typically create a sketch of the pipe installation. The plan usually consists of pipe sizing and type.

Once completed, a pipefitter will do the initial work to organise the pipes for welding. 

This may include cutting, spacing, or grinding to provide smooth and even edges.

Then, a pipefitter skilled in pipe welding will join the pipes together.

Pipe Welding

Typically, pipe welders have some essential welding skills that help them install and repair pipes. However, highly specialised welders will perform more complicated welds.

Pipefitting and pipe welding are distinct career paths, but both need to understand how metals fit together. 

A pipe welder specialising in welding might put down the welds after a pipefitter has cut and prepared the joints. It all depends on the specific job. 

Types of Welds Used in Pipe Fitting

There are many different welding types used in pipe fitting today, such as:

• Arc Welding: Arc is the most fundamental type of welding used for heavy metals, including cast iron. Arc is also known as Stick Welding.

• MIG Welding: MIG uses metal inert gas and is the most common and quickest form of welding. Pipe Welders can use MIG on mild steel, stainless steel and aluminium.

• TIG Welding: TIG uses tungsten inert gas and is a more expert form of welding. Welders can use this welding type for metals such as alloys.

Pipe welders need to observe the proper welding procedure for each job. For example, preparing a joint for arc welding is not the same as preparing a joint for TIG welding.

For more information on Welding, please visit our Welding Services page.

Pipe Fitters Tools

Pipefitters use a variety of tools to shape, cut and connect pipes. 

Here are some of the more common tools used:

• Blow Torch – A blowtorch is a fuel-burning tool used for applying heat to various applications.
• Pipe Wrench/Stilson – Pipe wrenches are usually used in pairs to assemble or disassemble threaded pipe joints.
• Threading Machine – A threading machine cuts a standardised thread onto a pipe mechanically. Usually BSPT or NPT.
• Grinder – A power tool with a fast spinning abrasive disc. It is used for grinding, smoothing, and shaping metal.
• Pipefitters Square – This tool helps align pipes and is essential to fit pipes at uncommon angles.
• Measuring Tape – A tape measure is a flexible ruler used to measure size or distance.
• Pipe Bender – A pipe bender bends piping to form varied angles and curves.
• Pipe Wraps – Pipe wraps ensure that all the edges are aligned to help a pipefitter make a straight cut on a pipe.
• Flange Aligners – Flange aligners align joints before welding. Engineers also use them to check for joint misalignment.
• Welders Gauge – A welder’s gauge checks the preparation angle, alignment, fillet weld throat and fillet weld length.
• Welders (MIG, TIG, Stick) – Welding is a process where two or more parts are fused using heat or pressure (or both) to form a joint.

Important Skills For Pipe Fitting

These are some fundamental skills for pipefitters to have:

• Mathematics: Math plays an essential role to help calculate the proper placement of pipes and welds in piping systems. 
• Strength & Stamina: A pipe fitters day is usually spent on their feet, engaging in the heavy lifting of tools and pipework.
• Attention to detail: Pipefitters must have exceptional awareness to spot flaws in a system and fix them before they cause vast complications.
• Customer Service: When an issue arises in a project, the pipefitter needs to assure the client while helping them understand the situation.
• Work Under Pressure: Working with high-pressure systems demands you to be organised, relaxed and concentrated while adhering to safety protocols.

Pipe Fitting Work Environment

Pipefitters can work on various projects, meaning their work environment continually changes. Some projects may also mean travelling to different work sites throughout the day. 

They might work at the location where a piping system is being installed. Or they might be the team planning and fabricating the pipe needed for the site in the workshop.

Typically, pipefitters work in the industrial and manufacturing industries. They visit sites like: 

• Chemical Treatment Plans
• Construction Firms
• Gas Processing Plants
• Heating And Ventilation Companies
• Hospitals And Clinics
• Oil Refineries 
• Utility Companies

Pipefitters work with various specialised power tools, heavy equipment, and welding equipment, each with risk factors. 

Pipefitters are liable for providing the highest safety standards in the workplace according. 

Some of the gases and fluids they might encounter may be toxic. Therefore, wearing the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) is necessary.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

PPE is equipment designed to protect engineers against health and safety risks in the workplace. 

Safety is essential in any operation but is crucial in an industry such as fabrication. Welding alone presents a constant risk from heat, radiation, and ricochet.

There are many types of PPE that Pipefitters can use to provide safe working, such as:

• Hi-Vis Jackets
• Overalls
• Face shields
• Gloves
• Helmets
• Protective eyewear
• Respirators
• Steel-toed boots

Qualifications Required For Pipefitting

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role

College

You can do a college course, which may help you get a trainee pipefitters job. Courses include:

• Diploma in Engineering
• Certificate in Welding
• Diploma in Plumbing and Heating
• Diploma in Building Services Engineering
• T Level in Building Services Engineering for Construction

Entry requirements

You’ll usually need:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equal, for a level 2 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equal, for a level 3 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equal, including English and maths for a T level

City And Guilds offer courses for Pipefitters.

For more information, please visit the National Careers website.

Varlowe’s Pipe Fitters

Varlowe Industrial Services has a talented team of on-site pipefitters. We cover everything from minor pipe changes to complete pipework restructures nationwide. 

We are able to pre-fabricate most pipework at our workshop. As a result, it can keep site disruption low.

Please call us on 01902 861042 or visit our Pipefitter page for more information. 

Heating a commercial building is essential for creating a comfortable environment. It can be divided into different offices or units, each with additional heating and cooling requirements.

Commercial heating systems are separate from household ones because they can spread across a much larger area. Meaning they are bigger and more complex than your traditional domestic systems.

Modern commercial heating systems have developed massively over the years. Systems such as an HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) unit helps create a comfortable environment by providing cool or warm air depending on your climate needs. They can also manage indoor air quality by preventing condensation, mould growth and much more.

In this post, we will go over some of the most common Commercial Heating systems you can buy today.

Types of Heating System

There are a few choices for heating a sizeable commercial area. The following will explain the different types of systems in more detail.

Warm Air Heating Systems (Heat Exchanger)

A warm air heating system uses a fan to pull air across a heat exchanger. This air transfers heat between two or more fluids, and thus, it heats the air evenly in the space. 

Warm air heating makes it ideal for constant temperature throughout the building. 

The heat source for the warm air can be electric, water or a gas-fired burner.

Warm Air Heating offers a few different configurations depending on the room’s layout and the floor area available. The heaters can be wall-mounted, stood on the floor, or suspended above.

Floor-standing models are flexible due to the arrangeable configurations. 

• They can use vents to direct the heat within the immediate area. 

• They can be connected to ductwork to distribute the air across a larger size. 

Destratification heating

Destratification heating systems are designed to stir up the airflow in a space. It uses the process of thermal destratification to mix all the air within the building.

In any area, heat will rise. So ceiling temperature layers or ‘strata’ are different from ground level, where conventional thermostats are usually placed. The results of this are wasted energy, with cold and uncomfortable settings.

The solution is to use destratification fans, forcing the warmer air back down to ground level and breaking up the temperature strata. The fans are usually mixed with warm air heating to ensure that warm air doesn’t sit in the ceiling. Because of this, it produces a more constant temperature throughout.

Air Rotation Heating

Air rotation heating is ideal for large distribution centres and warehouses. It excels at frost protection or constant background temperatures.

Cooler air is steadily pulled through the unit, causing destratification and even temperatures. As a result, destratification fans are not needed as the air is already circulated. 

The installation cost is low because there is no need for a duct system. They are also efficient due to the fuel saved by using heat trapped in the ceiling. 

Radiant Heating

Radiant heat transfer is the distribution of heat directly via infrared radiation. This is delivered via Radiant tubes or radiant plaque heaters suspended from a roof or ceiling in a commercial environment. 

Infrared radiation warms people and objects without directly heating the air. The people and objects act as secondary heaters to raise the temperature further. 

Although the air temperature is lower than in a warm air heated space, people will feel warm as long as they are directly in line with the heat source.

If people are shielded from the heat source by equipment, or walls, they will no longer feel the benefit of the heat. This forces limitations on the layout as it can’t be changed later. 

The main advantage of radiant heating is the reduced heat loss in areas where doors are opened regularly, such as loading bays. This is because objects heated by radiant heating stay warm even after opening a door.

Heat Pumps 

A heat pump uses a small amount of electricity and refrigerant to move heat from one location to another.

The heat pump takes air from outside your home and moves it to a refrigeration coolant. The coolant is then compressed, which increases the temperature significantly. It is moved to the heat pump’s indoor unit, passing the air over the hot coolant. As a result, the air’s temperature rises to provide the thermostatic call for heat inside the home.

There are three principal heat pumps: 

• Air-To-Air – Generates heat from using air.
• Water Source – Generates heat from the water
• Geothermal – Generates heat from the ground outside

You can read more about heat pumps on in our blog post “What are heat pumps“.

Boilers

Boilers are generally more common in older buildings, but they are still present in many types of commercial heating systems. 

Steam boilers use a heating mechanism to evaporate water into high-pressure steam. The steam rises and is tightly concentrated. It is then delivered through the building pipe network, warming each room. 

A critical difference between boilers is how they heat the water. Fire Tube and Water tube boilers create steam but are virtually opposite in operation.

Fire Tube and Water Tube

A fire-tube boiler is where fire/hot gases pass through multiple tubes running within a sealed water container. The heat of the tubes is transferred through the walls by thermal conduction, which in turn heats the water and creates steam.

A water tube boiler is where water travels in tubes that are heated externally by a fire inside the furnace. The fire creates hot gas and boils the water in the steam-generating tubes.

Both of these systems have their pros and cons list. Their decision is essentially up to personal preference rather than quality or cost.

Commercial Heating Engineers

There isn’t a heating system that will be best suited for every environment. Each type of building will benefit from a different setup.

Whether you’re looking at heating solutions for an office, school, restaurant, shop, gym or leisure centre, Varlowe Industrial Services can provide you with the support to make the right choice.

Our expert contract managers and commercial gas engineers will be with you from start to finish. For more information, please visit our Commercial Heating Services page.

Give us a call on 01902 861042 or email Lee@varlowe.co.uk for more information.