High-efficiency models key to sustainability Wilo urges installers to swap old for new

With cold snaps causing breakdowns in old heating systems, Wilo has called on installers to take the opportunity to fit modern, efficient pumps to help homeowners save as much as 80% in energy and reduce their running costs.

Recent months have seen a significant drop in temperatures with peoples’ heating systems and pumps breaking down as a result of these dropping temperatures. The problem is more prominent in larger, older properties. It also impacts systems that have not been turned on for long periods of time, allowing sludge and debris to build up in pipes and components.

Wilo is now encouraging installers who are fixing or upgrading heating systems to avoid “like-for-like” fixedspeed pumps, and instead seek high-efficiency models to help their customers save energy this year and beyond.

For example, based on an approximate cost of 39 cent per KwH for electricity, and the heating being on 24 hours a day, an old, fixed-speed 100W pump could cost 98 cent to run. In comparison, a modern pump with an electronically commutated (EC) motor works from as low as 4W to a maximum of 40W, meaning a 60% reduction in electricity usage, and bringing running costs down significantly to approximately 38 cent per day. If the pump operates at a lower speed, these costs can be reduced even further, by as much as 80%.

Derek Elton, Managing Director, Wilo Ireland, said: “Many homeowners, especially those who live in older or larger houses, often find that their heating systems break down at extremely inconvenient times, such as the height of a cold snap.

“While this is an inconvenience, it is also a chance for installers to help homeowners upgrade their systems. There are many high-efficiency heating circulator pumps available on the market now, like those from our Yonos PICO range. These typically offer up to 80% better performance in terms of energy efficiency owing to EC motor technology. They also incorporate many smart features like working only on demand to save homeowners money.”

Along with helping homeowners in the cost-of-living crisis, it also helps them be more sustainable with energy usage. Choosing modern pumps can also help installers save time in both fitting, commissioning and maintenance.

“One of the big challenges that the plumbing and heating industry faces is that there just aren’t enough installers,” says Derek. “We know there is a skills gap and installers are some of the most time-poor trade professionals. Additionally, attending a call-out can also be unpredictable, as fitters won’t know what they’re facing in airing cupboards until they get to site.

“That’s why the choice of materials can really matter. Products like our Yonos PICO range have been designed with a small footprint to fit into tight spaces, with tool-free wiring for simple and faster connection. The range also houses innovative features like pictograms to make the commissioning stage much simpler and quicker. We also have plenty of stock across our entire portfolio so there is ready availability from all merchant stockists.”