Low-Carbon Heating & Air Source Heat Pump Installation, Maun Infant School, Ollerton, Nottinghamshire

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Low-carbon school heating system Nottinghamshire

Commercial Air Source Heat Pump Installation – Ollerton, Nottinghamshire

DCR was appointed to deliver a complete low-carbon heating solution for Maun Infant School in Ollerton, replacing an ageing heating system that was beyond economical repair, alongside failing hot water systems and an initial failure of the school's gas supply.

The project began with DCR providing a temporary plant room, heating and hot water solution while planning permission and the new electrical supply requirements were progressed with National Grid.

The completed project comprises eight Warmflow air source heat pumps, approximately 150 new heat pump-compatible radiators and individual heating zones throughout the school.

DCR's in-house Build Management Team acted as main contractor and Principal Designer, coordinating the complete project alongside our mechanical, electrical, civils, joinery and decorating teams.

The Challenge

Working within an existing school building presented a number of technical and logistical challenges. The new heating system had to be designed around the existing building while providing reliable, efficient heating across different areas of the school.

The project was also extremely time-sensitive, with all major works needing to be completed before the school reopened after the summer holidays.

With more than 40 workers on site, DCR had to coordinate multiple teams and trades within a condensed programme, while maintaining strict health and safety standards.

Additional requirements also arose during the project, including the installation of approximately 500 metres of safeguarding/security fencing and a further 200 metres of electrical cabling following changes to the National Grid requirements.

DCR's Solution

Using our experience in commercial heat pump design and low-carbon heating, DCR developed a bespoke system specifically for the school's requirements.

The eight Warmflow heat pumps operate as a cascade system, with individual classroom zones allowing heating times and temperatures to be controlled independently. This provides greater control over energy use and helps prevent unnecessary heating in unoccupied areas.

The project also included approximately 150 new heat pump-compatible radiators and heat emitters, replacing the school's original pre-1920 radiators. Stelrad Green radiators, manufactured using 100% recycled steel, were selected to support the project's wider low-carbon objectives.

DCR's ModX+ design was adapted specifically to overcome the challenges of working within the existing school building, incorporating zone-specific controls and hydraulic components to optimise system performance.

A new dedicated electrical supply, electrical distribution equipment and individual supplies to each heat pump were also incorporated into the project.

Commercial air source heat pump installation at Maun Infant School

The Result

DCR successfully delivered a complete low-carbon heating system for the school, from temporary heating and initial design through to installation, commissioning and handover.

The project demonstrates DCR's ability to manage complex commercial heat pump and decarbonisation projects within existing buildings, bringing design, project management, mechanical, electrical and construction expertise together under one roof.

The result is a modern heating system with individual classroom control, improved energy efficiency and a lower-carbon alternative to the school's former gas heating system.