The Almonry Kitchen, a Grade I listed café and event space within the grounds of Ely Cathedral, is reaping the benefits of a 27kW air source heat pump with a COP of 4.94.
The ECOMOD R290HT heat pump from Ideal Commercial Heating was selected for its ability to deliver high flow temperatures of up to 75°C for heating and hot water – making it particularly suitable for retrofit applications where existing heat emitters and pipework are being retained, the firm says.
Ely Cathedral secured funding to replace the existing gas boiler serving The Almonry Kitchen as part of a wider refurbishment programme designed to improve sustainability and to modernise the facility. The high flow temperature enabled the project team to introduce low carbon heating technology without compromising the building’s operational requirements or undertaking extensive alterations to the Grade I listed property, Ideal added.
The heat pump installed at The Almonry is capable of achieving a CoP (Coefficient of Performance) of up to 4.94 and incorporates an inverter-controlled compressor that continuously adjusts output to match demand, helping to optimise efficiency and minimise energy consumption.
The heat pump was commissioned through Ideal Commercial Heating’s free commissioning service, which is available across its commercial heat pump and condensing boiler ranges. The service ensures equipment is correctly configured and operating as intended from day one, while also activating a five-year warranty, the manufacturer said.
Richard Brown, Head of Specification at Ideal Commercial Heating, said
The Almonry Kitchen project demonstrates how modern heat pump technology can support the decarbonisation of heritage buildings, a sector often perceived as challenging due to planning constraints and the need to protect historic features. By replacing the previous gas-fired system with a high-efficiency air source heat pump, Ely Cathedral has taken a significant step towards reducing operational carbon emissions while maintaining comfort for visitors and staff.”
