Tips for new build homes

Looking to install a new heating system as part of a new build development? Picking the right system for your property is incredibly important, as the efficiency and effectiveness of your home heating will be affected by this choice. If you install the wrong heating system, you could lose performance if it struggles to heat a larger home. Something also to bear in mind, the Future Homes Standard states that no new builds will use fossil fuels from 2025 onwards, so it’s worth carefully considering your choice today.

Fortunately, you can reduce your heating costs by installing a modern, economical heating system whilst making a significant contribution to climate protection.

Renewable energy is often the best choice when it comes to new build developments, as they are more energy efficient and provide more sustainable solutions to home heating. With that said, energy-efficient heating systems based on fossil fuels are reliable and trustworthy - they’ve been in use for a long time - and will certainly be an effective heating method. The fact is that not every type of heating system is suitable for every home.

The most popular renewable solutions are the following:

Each comes with benefits and drawbacks, though all are fantastic options for new builds where installation is possible. The following information will help you consider all key aspects.

Start the planning stage in good time

Deciding on the right type of heating system as early as possible when planning your new home is key as it allows you to carry out the necessary construction based on the system you choose. For example, if you were to opt for a ground, water or air source heat pump solution, having the foresight of the installation location can be incredibly beneficial.

For advice and guidance before deciding on your new system, consult an installer in your local area to ensure you choose the right heating system for your home.

Find an installer in your area

The output of your heating system

It’s crucial for your new heating system to meet the needs of your family and home size. It’s also equally as important to consider your hot water supply and the demand you expect to put on it day-to-day.

The vast majority of new systems available today are capable of ensuring hot water is available from any tap, at all times, as and when it’s needed. With that said, a larger home that will put a lot of pressure upon the system - multiple users consistently - could impact on performance. It’s important to consider what you need now along with what you may need in the future, so the ability to upgrade is an important consideration.

By selecting a heating system that can be upgraded, it means your requirements can always be met, even if they increase unexpectedly.

Energy consumption is a big consideration and understanding how efficient different systems are, can result in you minimising your heating costs in the long run. Be sure to review the provided information on products you’re reviewing to understand their efficiency and whether it’s the right fit for your new build.

Your heating and hot water needs

The number of people in your new home and the size of your property are the primary determiners for the amount of heat your system needs to generate. It's better to plan for slightly more than your maximum requirements, as this will ensure that you’re covered in the vast majority of circumstances.

A rule of thumb applies when calculating your energy requirements. The kilowatt hour (kWh) is the billing unit for energy delivered to consumers by electric utilities:

kW heating capacity (number of m² x 50 W/m²: 1,000)

+ kW hot water output (approx. 30% of the above value)

= kW rated heat output

According to this formula, for a low energy house with 130 m² living space the result is 8.5 to 9 kW rated heat output. The rated heat output is the maximum attainable power output of a heating system in continuous operation. You can find the output range for boiler systems in the specifications sheet.

Your independent Vaillant heating installers can help determine your exact requirements, based on your property, if you are unsure or require a professional opinion.

Hot water convenience: size and location

There are many different hot water and heating solutions available, for all sorts of requirements, whether it’s with space-saving in mind or immediate hot water supply, we have a solution that will meet your needs.

Choosing the right energy source

Choosing the right energy source for you is so important, whether it’s solar energy solutions or high efficiency technologies.

To find the perfect solution for your home, speak to your local Vaillant installer for further advice and support.

Where to locate your new heating system

Whether you want to place your heating system in the basement, kitchen or loft, we can supply the right solution for your home.

Modern heating systems are built with space in mind – maximising performance and using minimal space. When considering larger houses and commercial buildings with larger output gas boilers, hot water cylinders and heat pump systems are often stored in basements, garages, or purpose-built utility rooms to reduce footprint and maximise available living space.

Gas-fired condensing boilers are most commonly wall-mounted and come in a range of sizes and heating outputs - from small to large - to ensure they meet your requirements.

A good place for a gas-fired condensing boiler with solar support is in the loft, particularly when considering a compact Vaillant condensing boilder. This reduces the distance between the panel and boiler and therefore reduces heat loss.

Renewable solutions, such as the various heat pump methods, will require installation in the relevant outdoor location - in the ground, froma water source near your home, or outside the property - so may not be suitable for all types of new build.

Preferred heat distribution

The larger the heating surface is, the lower the temperature the new heating system must produce and the more efficiently it operates

From an energy point of view, underfloor heating is ideal for heating in new buildings. It saves space and provides heat at low temperatures. Underfloor heating is an excellent foundation for modern systems such as heat pumps or solar thermal heating.

We recommend considering which rooms you would need to prioritise having underfloor heating in. Many homeowners choose to install underfloor heating in their bathrooms, for example, or under solid flooring in living rooms to avoid getting cold feet during the winter months. Always consider your budget and prioritise the rooms you are in most often.

Financing and funding

You may qualify for government funding when purchasing a new heating system, also reducing your investment costs. For example, homes with renewable heating systems can claim against the Renewable Heating Initiative (RHI) to recover initial spend and make this a more attractive option long-term.

Learn more about available subsidies