Kensa’s Shoebox NX uses networked ground source heat pump technology that is said to cost 20% less annually than air source heat pumps
The Kensa’s Shoebox NX ground source heat pump has been unvealed(Image credit: Kensa)
Kensa has released a new ground source heat pump in their latest advancement in heating systems that is claimed to be five times more efficient than a gas boiler — and small enough to fit inside a cupboard.
Kensa’s Shoebox NX is claimed to also be 20% cheaper to run annually than an air source heat pump.
They have also announced plans to make ground source heat pumps a more popular choice for homeowners in order to encourage "mass heat pump rollout" in the UK.
Five times more efficient than gas boilers
Kensa's Shoebox NX has a Coefficient of Performance (COP) of 4.36, making it five times more efficient than traditional gas boilers.
The ground source heat pump also has an A+++ energy efficiency rating and offers a longevity of 25 years. The system also eliminates the need for immersion heaters by heating water to temperatures exceeding 60°C.
Additionally, it presents a cost-effective solution for passive cooling as Kensa claim it can cool homes more efficiently during summer months compared to conventional air-conditioning methods.
Networked GSHPs 20% cheaper annually to ASHPs
The Kensa Shoebox NX ground source heat pump can fit inside a cupbaord(Image credit: Kensa)
Kensa's Shoebox NX works with existing networked ground source heat pumps (NGSHPs), which recent research reveals brings even more cost savings and advantages to air source heat pumps (ASHPs).
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The study by elementenergy found NGSHPs can be up to 20% cheaper to operate annually, with upfront installation costs coming in at 8% less when implemented on a larger scale within funded heat networks.
For the average 3-bedroom Victorian terraced house, the installation of an NGSHP could save homeowners £900 (8%) compared to an ASHP installation. This cost reduction is attributed to the smaller size of NGSHPs and the minimal external installation work required.
Another notable benefit highlighted by the study is that NGSHPs consume 40% less electricity to generate the same amount of heat as their ASHP counterparts. This not only translates to lower energy bills for consumers but also alleviates peak strain on the electrical grid.
Kensa reveal plans for 'mass heat pump rollout'
Kensa have also announced plans to achieve "mass heat pump rollout" across the UK with their new heat pump that they claim is suited to all seasons.
Tamsin Lishman, Kensa Heat Pumps CEO, said: “This is a game-changing heat pump designed for the UK. Until now, achieving mass heat pump rollout has been a complex challenge, but with the launch of our Shoebox NX, we’ve engineered a small, high-performance heat pump that’s ready to replace gas as the main home heating choice.
“When combined with our Networked Ground Source Heat Pumps solution, it unlocks cosy homes in the winter and cooler homes in the summer for almost anyone, and at low costs to the consumer."
John Bromley, Managing Director of Clean Energy Strategy & Investments at Legal and General Capital, said: “Housing requires some of the most substantial and immediate overhauls of any industry to improve standards, reduce running costs for consumers, and to reach net zero.
"The Kensa Group’s highly efficient, networked ground-source heating and cooling will play a key part in this transition."
News Editor Joseph has previously written for Today’s Media and Chambers & Partners, focusing on news for conveyancers and industry professionals. Joseph has just started his own self build project, building his own home on his family’s farm with planning permission for a timber frame, three-bedroom house in a one-acre field. The foundation work has already begun and he hopes to have the home built in the next year. Prior to this he renovated his family's home as well as doing several DIY projects, including installing a shower, building sheds, and livestock fences and shelters for the farm’s animals. Outside of homebuilding, Joseph loves rugby and has written for Rugby World, the world’s largest rugby magazine.
