Radical modern makeover to upgrade 1970s home

A 1970s house in South Norfolk has been given a radical modern makeover including a new renewable heating system installed by heat pump expert Finn Geotherm.

Located in Shipdham, the detached house is undergoing a dramatic transformation throughout to create a four bedroom, three bathroom home complete with utility, laundry and family rooms. Built in 1973, the house was untouched when new owner Cheryl Watkins bought it. Having always wanted to do a self-build project, this property gave her the next best thing – the chance to completely redesign and reconfigure the home around her and her family’s needs.

The original oil central heating system was still in the house, comprising an internal boiler with unbunded oil tank. With no gas in the area, Cheryl began to look at other options. Cheryl explained:

“I couldn’t continue with the existing oil system – it was outdated, unsafe and unsuitable. I love the idea of being self-sufficient one day and with all the upgrades we’re making to create a modern home, it only seemed right to put in the latest green technology for our heating. Having made two gas boiler replacements in 12 years in my previous new build home, I wanted something that would last longer and cost less to run.”

Having consulted with Cheryl and reviewed her plans for the property, Finn Geotherm specified and installed a Panasonic Aquarea TCAP 12kW air source heat pump and 200 litre domestic hot water cylinder with 50 litre buffer tank. Finn Geotherm also supplied 12 new radiators which were installed by Cheryl’s plumber and flushed the entire heating system.

The air source heat pump qualifies for the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) a Government scheme currently in place for renewable heating which provides quarterly payments for seven years.

Cheryl said:

“The air source heat pump wasn’t the cheap option but it was definitely the right choice that fitted with all the other changes we were making to upgrade this property. The added benefit of the RHI means I will soon recoup the cost of the system. We’re still finishing off the house but since the installation, we haven’t been cold at all and there is always plenty of hot water. We’re looking forward to enjoying many big family gatherings here and having the heat pump just makes our heating totally hassle free.”