Preparing for the Future Homes Standard
UK – The Future Homes Hub is encouraging housebuilders and their supply chains to use a range of practical guidance on heat pump design, installation and commissioning as the industry prepares for the implementation of the Future Homes Standard.
Coinciding with National Heat Pump Week (12–16 October), the initiative aims to share lessons from early adopters and help the housing sector prepare for the wider deployment of heat pumps in new build homes.
The publication of the Future Homes Standard, which will require low-carbon heating in new homes, is expected to accelerate heat pump adoption and increase the need for coordinated design, procurement and installation practices across the housebuilding industry.
Practical guidance for the supply chain
The Future Homes Hub has developed a series of resources through its Future Homes Standard Ready campaign, covering different stages of heat pump deployment.
The guidance includes:
- Delivering homes with heat pumps: practical advice for housebuilders on successful deployment.
- Integrating heat pumps: design guidance for architects and architectural technologists.
- Heating system procurement: advice on procuring heat pump systems for low-density new-build housing.
- Hints and tips for site managers: an online resource and printable checklist covering common installation issues and good practice.
- Heat pump commissioning: guidance on planning and carrying out commissioning in low-density housing developments.
The resources draw on experience from organisations already delivering homes with heat pumps, with an emphasis on identifying and addressing potential problems before they affect system performance.
Whole-system approach to installation
Daniel Neasham, Head of Sustainability and Performance at the Future Homes Hub, said successful heat pump deployment depends on coordination throughout the construction process.
“Heat pumps are a proven technology, but successful delivery requires a whole-system approach. The lessons emerging from successful early adopters are clear: early technical collaboration, integrated design development, robust installation controls, accurate commissioning and proactive customer support are essential.”
National Heat Pump Week webinar
As part of National Heat Pump Week, Future Homes Hub Strategic Advisor David Adams will participate in the Building Homes of the Future – Future Homes Standard webinar on 14 October. Registration is available here.
