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White Oak House: Oil boiler heating system

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The Brief

The property was set for a full refurbishment, which included the installation of a new mechanical plant room. Heathlands had the privilege of offering both technical expertise and installation services for the design and implementation of an oil-fired heating system, which fulfils the property’s heating and hot water needs. By collaborating closely with the building contractor and other trades, we successfully delivered a high-quality system that exceeded our client’s expectations.

The Solution

One of the initial tasks was to install the oil boiler, which presented challenges due to its location in the basement. After evaluating the safest method for installation, we brought in two 3-tonne A-frames. One was positioned on the ground floor, and the other in the basement. With precision and care, we maneuvered the boiler into place, ensuring it was situated to accommodate the installation of other essential equipment.

Once the boiler was in place, we began the plant room installation. Like the boiler, the remaining equipment was strategically positioned to ensure optimal performance and easy access for maintenance. Following this, we moved on to the pipework installation. All the pipework in the plant room was copper and was lagged after testing.

During the planning phase, we took into account the plant room’s unique shape, designing it so all equipment was placed around the perimeter. This allowed for full accessibility for future servicing or repairs.

Throughout the manor house, we installed Geberit Mepla pipework, chosen for its corrosion resistance, durability, and ease of handling compared to metal or plastic pipes.

During the project, we encountered some unexpected challenges, one of which involved the oil tank. After installation, the boiler wasn’t receiving sufficient oil flow due to the floor height differences between the tank and the boiler. We determined that the tank needed to be raised by 2 meters. After constructing a concrete platform, the tank was repositioned, reconnected, and tested, resolving the issue.

Given the rural location, oil was the only viable fuel option. The Viessmann Vitoradial 300-T oil boiler, with a heat output of 157kW, was installed to meet the property’s heating demands.

To ensure adequate water pressure and flow, we installed two break tanks supplying a Grundfos twin-headed booster set, maintaining a 6-bar pressure and 30 liters per minute flow to all outlets. A water softener system was also installed to protect the water services and plant equipment.

Considering the large number of bathrooms, kitchens, and utility rooms, we installed two 300L unvented hot water cylinders, each with dual 3kW immersion heaters. A secondary return pump was also fitted, ensuring hot water was available at any tap within two minutes.

To efficiently heat the property, which included 61 radiators, 14 towel rails, and 3 underfloor heating zones, we installed 4 Grundfos heating pumps. A dosing pot was added to the system to safely introduce chemicals, helping to protect the system from corrosion and limescale buildup.

The Result

Upon completing all installation work, we proceeded with testing throughout the property. The heating and hot water systems were controlled via a custom-made panel with remote access capabilities if needed. After commissioning the boiler and system, we dedicated a full day to guiding the client through the operation of the new heating system. All O&M manuals were stored in the plant room for future reference. Heathlands provides annual maintenance, including boiler servicing, system dosing, and general upkeep of all plant equipment.