David Patrick, Head of Specification Marketing at Dimplex UK, reveals how different types of heat pump systems are already proving their value on UK building sites
As the UK moves towards net zero, the way we heat our homes is undergoing a major shift. Gas boilers are being phased out and new regulations such as the Future Homes Standard and updates to Part L are accelerating the change. For builders and developers, this means adopting technologies that not only cut carbon but also meet the expectations of increasingly sustainability-minded buyers. Heat pumps are playing a central role in this transition, offering a practical, energy-efficient solution for both heating and hot water.
Heat pump cylinders for low-demand homes
In many modern homes, especially highly insulated apartments and smaller dwellings, heating demand is low so the challenge shifts to delivering hot water efficiently and sustainably.
Hot water heat pumps such as the Dimplex Edel are perfectly suited to this scenario. These compact, all-in-one units extract energy from the air – either from inside or outside the home – to heat and store domestic hot water. Because they’re standalone and don’t require external pipework or gas supply, they offer straightforward installation, making them ideal for new build environments.
Edel also supports solar PV integration via an optimiser, allowing it to use self-generated electricity for water heating. This reduces reliance on the grid, lowers running costs, and contributes to improved EPC ratings – making them attractive to both developers and end users.
Complementary technologies
For space heating, modern electric systems work well alongside heat pump water heaters. Products like the Dimplex Q-Rad, provide fast, controllable heat with smart thermostatic management and low installation overheads. Without the need for wet systems or complex pipework, they simplify first fix and ongoing maintenance.
Where greater load-shifting or off-peak use is needed, High Heat Retention storage heaters like Quantum by Dimplex offer an additional advantage. By charging overnight and releasing heat during the day, they allow developers to make the most of time-of-use tariffs and help future-proof homes against rising energy costs.
Quantum is also compatible with smart tariffs, such as the British Gas Dimplex Quantum Tariff. These tariffs support residents by charging the heaters when grid energy is cheapest via 100% renewable electricity, lowering running costs while supporting the decarbonisation of the UK energy grid.
Heat pump innovation for larger schemes
For larger developments or multi-dwelling buildings, centralised low-temperature networks are emerging as a more efficient, future-ready approach.
The Dimplex Zeroth Energy System uses an ambient temperature loop to distribute low-carbon energy throughout a building. Individual in-apartment heat pumps then upgrade this to provide heating, hot water and in some cases, cooling. This decentralised system offers multiple benefits: improved energy efficiency, easier compliance with Part L and Part O, and the flexibility to serve different layouts and property types within a single infrastructure.
A clear example of this in action is the Harbour Lofts regeneration project – a boutique mixed-use development on Poole’s historic Quayside. The Zeroth Energy System was specified to deliver a compliant ambient temperature heat network despite the site’s spatial limitations and restrictions on external installations. Its innovative design enabled the development to meet on-site renewable energy requirements, comply with tightening carbon performance targets and navigate planning constraints, all while providing a comfortable, low-carbon solution designed to meet long-term regulatory and environmental demands.
Meeting expectations and regulations
Buyers are increasingly informed and sustainability conscious. They want homes that are affordable to run, comfortable to live in and compliant with future energy standards. Heat pumps help developers deliver on all three. From compact standalone units like Edel to integrated systems for larger projects, they reduce carbon, cut running costs, and simplify compliance with evolving regulations.
No longer a niche option, heat pumps are already being used on site. When paired with smart electric heating and hot water technologies, they enable the creation of homes designed for today’s needs and tomorrow’s demands.
For more information on any of the products detailed in this feature use the appropriate link
Dimplex Edel
Dimplex Q-Rad
Quantum RF HHR Storage Heater
Zeroth Energy System
