Heating interface unit in new build HIU

[Deleted User]

Here's another: http://www.moneysupermarket.com/community/forums/t/switch-2-40593.aspx ("SWITCH2" seems to be the best phrase to search).

Here's some on this forum with experiences of Switch 2:

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/4860714

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/4589421

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/3828063

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/2196017

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/2087621

From what people are saying I would be very very wary about moving into a building with such a system, everything Tony_MechEng has said appears to reflect the experiences of those at the mercy of such a system. High costs, warm water, limits on the temperature you can achieve... not good.

Also thanks to this topic I have now learned about something to look out for when looking at new build apartments, thank you! :-D

hlou

This is all a bit worrying - we are in a bit of a trap at the moment because we can only afford a new build because of the equity loan help to buy availability.

However, we can't really wait to buy anything because of wanting to start a family etc. The flats are perfect in every other way - great location, lovely flats, beautiful finishes. I don't know whether we should let this one thing stop us buying full stop, and potentially not being able to buy anything else.

Owain_Moneysaver

There must be other flats available, which have individual heating systems, either gas (low-rise) or electric storage heaters (mid- and high-rise buildings where gas is not run to individual flats).

Have a look at the financial pages on the energ-group website and you may come to the conclusion that residents can get tied into long term expensive leasing agreements but this saves the developer from putting the funding in up front for the system.

Tony_MechEng

ener-g/switch 2 are one of the bigger companies, they take over the management and billing of the residents system from the developer as an Esco (energy services company) and make their money by the energy they sell. They are regulated to a point and they do have to be 'reasonably' competitive but you do get tied in to having to use them due to the nature of the system. They renew thier gas contract yearly and should endeavour to seek the lowest energy costs which should get passed down. I'm sure you can ask for a breakdown of service charge etc to see how much is additional costs on top of usage for things such as planned maintenance and replacement.

I would not say its all bad, I would much rather a HIU system than electric storage heaters and will be cheaper at least on running costs. HIU don't have gas so a bit safer in this respect and they are cheaper than boilers to replace should they go wrong. The heat meters are very accurate so if you use little hws then you pay little, you are not paying for the standing heat loss from a cylinder sitting at high temp whilst your out all day.

If the flats are not tall tower blocks they are less likely to experience the warm cold water issues, and the rest often get sorted out if everyone clubs together to put pressure on the management team.

You won't be the first person to live in a flat and these systems go in 90% of new flats in London. Where is this flat? Constructed by who?

Any questions let me know :-)

hlou

It's constructed by Spenhill in London. There are only 3 floors so no, not a tower block. You have been really informative though, so thanks for all of your help and advice.

Lexie_M

you might be talking about the area where I live. Expect to pay double what you are paying now for heating and hot water. The admin charges are horrendous