Bungalow refurb - which green energy for heating?

babiebeany

We are completely refurbing a 1930s bungalow and want to save some cash (in the long run) on our heating, but just don't know what sort of heating system to go for.

I know there is ground source, air source, solar or conventional heating, but which would be the best value for money and give the best heating/hot water.

This little place is having everything done, rear ext, loft ext, heating, electrics, kitchens, bathrooms, damp proofing, so now at the planning stage seems the right time to try to decide on a new system.

There is a roof which faces south and it already has cavity wall insulation if that helps.

If anyone can point me in the right direction I would be very pleased!!

rogerblack

My advice would be not to concentrate on the heating.

First concentrate on significantly exceeding the current building regulations for new build in terms of insulation.

Draught sealing, actual designed air-exchange, possibly with a heat-recovery system rather than relying on leaks, replacement door, everything.

Once you've done this, the heating system both becomes cheaper to operate, and needs to be smaller - which may well mean lots cheaper.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passive_house

Step one is to do a detailed spreadsheet of all the losses in the building, and working out what is required under building regs - and what heat input this will require.

Now, work out where you can improve this.
Internal or external insulation on the walls can dramatically reduce your bills.
Similarly with floor insulation.
Windows - as long as they are airtight - are unlikely to be a significant heat leak.
The ceiling tends to be easy to insulate - if you have an attic.

Spending an extra 6K at this point can _dramatically_ slash your bills.

babiebeany

Thanks for that info, I have a starting point now.

I am going to look at triple glazed windows and thermally insulated doors, as well as underfloor insulation.

babiebeany

can you tell me the best way to undertake step 1?