Renu Heating

Air Source Heat Pumps for Period & Listed Homes | Leicestershire

Can air source heat pumps be installed in period homes or listed buildings? Explore options for heritage properties in Leicester and Leicestershire.

Can Old Homes Go Green?

You might assume that renewable heating systems like air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are only suitable for modern builds. But that’s not true.
Many period properties and listed buildings across Leicester and Leicestershire can successfully switch to heat pumps—with careful planning.

This blog explores what’s possible, the challenges, and how to navigate permissions and insulation concerns.

What Counts as a Period or Listed Property?

In the UK, a period property typically refers to homes built before 1914 (Victorian, Edwardian, Georgian, etc.).
A listed building is one with special historical or architectural importance—meaning you’ll need Listed Building Consent (LBC) for many changes.

Common examples in Leicestershire include:
– Victorian terraces in Leicester city centre
– Georgian townhouses in Market Harborough
– Grade II cottages in villages like Quorn or Woodhouse Eaves

Can You Install an Air Source Heat Pump?

Yes, in most cases you can—but you’ll need to meet certain criteria and might require additional planning steps.

Key Considerations

1. Location of the Unit
– ASHPs are typically mounted outside. For listed homes, this may need to be at the rear or screened from public view.

2. Noise Regulations
– Heat pumps produce low-level noise. Ensure placement complies with noise regulations (especially near boundaries or shared walls).

3. Insulation & Heat Loss
– Older homes often lack cavity wall insulation. You may need to upgrade floors, roofs, and glazing to reduce heat loss.

4. Radiator Upgrades
– Existing radiators may not suit low-temperature heat output. Larger or more efficient models might be required.

Planning Permission & Listed Building Consent in Leicestershire

In non-listed properties, installing an air source heat pump usually falls under permitted development rights.

For listed buildings or conservation areas, you’ll likely need to:
– Apply for Listed Building Consent from your local planning authority
– Submit drawings showing placement and pipework
– Explain how historic fabric will be preserved

Renu Heating (https://renuheating.co.uk/) works with Leicestershire councils and conservation officers to support planning applications.

Heritage Home Tip: Combine with Fabric Upgrades

If you’re restoring a period home, now is the perfect time to combine ASHP installation with:
– Underfloor insulation
– Internal wall insulation
– Draught-proofing sash windows
– Secondary glazing

These changes improve comfort and reduce running costs.

Case Study: Listed Cottage in Leicestershire

Property: Grade II cottage, near Lutterworth
Challenge: No gas connection, conservation area
Solution:
– External ASHP mounted in hidden garden corner
– Insulation added to roof and underfloor
– Modern radiators installed
Result: Over £600/year saved compared to old oil system

– Air source heat pump listed building
– Period property heat pump Leicester
– Heritage home heating Leicestershire
– Low carbon heating for old homes
– https://renuheating.co.uk/

Coming Next Week

Do Air Source Heat Pumps Work in Winter?
We’ll explain how modern ASHPs perform in cold weather—even in rural parts of Leicestershire.