Case Study - Heating System Upgrade for a Historic Church
Client: The Priory Church of St Mary, Tutbury – Consecrated in AD 1089
The Challenge
This historic church, in continuous use as a place of worship since 1089, relied on a decades-old 250kWH gas boiler connected to an aging water distribution system—possibly pre-war. The boiler had become highly inefficient, with replacement parts increasingly difficult to source. Additionally, one of the three heating circuits had developed a leak and had to be isolated.
Facing
unsustainable gas usage, the Parochial Church Council (PCC) explored solutions based on recommendations from the Diocesan Heating Advisor. While an Air-Source Heat Pump was initially considered, it was deemed unsuitable due to its inability to provide sufficient heating for such a large space and its significantly higher installation cost (three times that of a gas boiler). A tender process was conducted to select the best contractor for a modern 120kWH gas boiler installation.
Why Harnce Heating & Plumbing?
The PCC sought three quotations from contractors experienced in working with churches. Despite all three contractors visiting the site, Harnce Heating and Plumbing were the only company to provide a quotation without estimates and exclusions. This gave the church confidence in both pricing transparency and project scope certainty, enabling them to move forward with diocesan approval.
The Process
From the outset, communication with Harnce Heating and Plumbing was straightforward and efficient. The team maintained regular contact with both the church office and on-site operatives, ensuring smooth project coordination.
Given the damp conditions and flood risk in the old boiler cellar, the new boiler was strategically placed in a vestry cupboard, requiring a complex rerouting of pipework. The replacement circuit was carefully installed through the body of the church, running under the stone-flagged floor in a dedicated duct. This presented significant challenges, but the Harnce team expertly navigated the constraints of the historic structure.
Following installation, there were minor post-completion issues related to programming the system for the church’s unique heating needs. However, these were promptly resolved at no extra cost.
The Solution & Impact
The church now benefits from a reliable and efficient heating system that meets its requirements. The new gas boiler has significantly improved operational efficiency, ensuring a warm and welcoming environment for the congregation while reducing energy waste.
Client Testimonial
“We would gladly provide a recommendation for Harnce Heating and Plumbing. Their expertise, flexibility in the face of challenges, and excellent communication made this complex project a success. The team worked with great care to preserve the historic fabric of our church while delivering a modern, reliable heating solution.” Philip Norris
This historic priory church now enjoys a stable and energy-efficient heating system, preserving its sacred space for future generations.
