Rowley Way heating system upgrade
We’re replacing and upgrading the estate-wide heating system. At present, a full-time engineer is required at Rowley Way because the system is so unreliable.
What we'll deliver
Works will include:
- new external pipes to carry heating and hot water around the estate
- new and upgraded riser pipes in each block
- new radiators and pipework in all homes
- fire safety upgrades, including bespoke fire-stopping where needed
- new ventilation systems that meet Building Regulations (Part F)
- safe removal of old heating and hot water systems
- asbestos checks and removal where needed, linked to heating and riser work
Thermal modelling
We’re committed to carrying out detailed thermal modelling so that you can be confident the design will be comfortable and reliable. This work is also aimed at addressing concerns about condensation and mould.
The results will help us make small improvements, such as adjusting the size or position of radiators. We’ll keep you updated as the modelling continues.
How we’ll decide where to install your radiators
Every home in Rowley Way has a different layout, so radiators will be installed in different places in different homes.
We’ll survey your home to work out the best location for your radiators. The project team will discuss the options. You can also visit the show flats to see examples of where radiators might go.
The number of radiators in each room is based on a heat-loss assessment by our heating consultant. This considers the size of each room and where your flat is in the block. We may make small changes if needed.
Replacing heating coils
We know that some of you have asked if heating coils can be left if they’re still working. We have considered this, but it does not make sense to connect new pipe work to coils that are over 40 years old. It’s likely that an increasing number of coils will fail as time progresses.
Options for renewable energy
We looked at renewable energy options for the estate. In the long term, our aim is to replace the existing boilers with heat pumps once they reach the end of their life.
The most suitable option for the estate would be solar panels on the roof. However, more than 70% of the roof is already occupied by water tanks and pipework, which cannot be removed because the building is in a conservation area. This leaves no room for solar panels, making the option neither practical nor cost-effective.
We also considered installing solar panels at ground level. But the area does not get enough sunlight because nearby buildings and trees block it. Ground-level panels would also risk damage, theft or interference with the greenery.
Future proofing
The new system enables us to switch over to a newer, greener heat source when the existing boilers need to be replaced. We anticipate this will be in 10 to 15 years.
This will not require any changes within your homes – just in the boiler house.
Stay informed
You can find out more about the:
Contact us
If you have any questions, email the project manager, Laoighse McCarthy, laoighse.mccarthy@camden.gov.uk.