Heating systems for golf clubhouses – air source heat pumps vs air-to-air systems

UK golf clubs are under pressure to reduce their carbon footprint, driven by both environmental concerns and rising energy costs. Government initiatives, although not always directly applicable to private clubs, have increased awareness of low-carbon heating technologies. While the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS) primarily supports public buildings, it highlights the broader push towards decarbonisation.

Exploring alternative funding sources for golf clubs

While not all government schemes apply directly to private golf clubs, there are several alternative funding options that can support energy efficiency improvements:

1. Local council grants – many local authorities offer grants for energy efficiency improvements to businesses.
2. Energy efficiency loans – commercial loans specifically designed for energy-saving projects.
3. Industry-specific initiatives – organisations like England Golf are increasingly focusing on sustainability and may offer guidance or resources. (England Golf – Sustainability).

Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) – promise vs. reality in older clubhouses

The theory
ASHPs extract heat from the outside air and transfer it indoors. They are significantly more energy-efficient than traditional fossil fuel systems, leading to lower carbon emissions and, under ideal conditions, lower running costs.

The challenges in older buildings

Many UK golf clubhouses are older structures with characteristics that make ASHPs less effective:

Poor insulation
Older buildings often have inadequate insulation, leading to significant heat loss. This forces ASHPs to work harder, reducing efficiency and increasing energy bills. The National Audit Office report on achieving net zero highlights the crucial role of building fabric in decarbonisation. (National Audit Office – Achieving Net Zero).

Undersized radiators
Existing radiator systems are typically designed for the high-temperature output of traditional boilers. ASHPs operate at lower temperatures, requiring larger radiators or underfloor heating for effective heat distribution.

High retrofit costs
Adapting an older clubhouse for an ASHP can involve significant costs, including:

• Replacing radiators with larger, low-temperature models.
• Improving insulation (walls, roof, windows).
• Potentially installing underfloor heating.
• Upgrading electrical systems to handle the ASHP’s power requirements.
• Complex installation and maintenance – ASHPs are more complex than traditional systems, requiring specialist installers and ongoing maintenance.
• Insufficient hot water supply – many clubhouses may need additional hot water solutions alongside ASHPs.

Are Air-to-air heat exchange systems a viable alternative?

How air-to-air heat exchange systems work
Air-to-air systems transfer heat directly between indoor and outdoor air streams. They are often modular, allowing for targeted heating and cooling of specific clubhouse areas (e.g., bar, restaurant, pro shop, changing rooms).

Advantages for older clubhouses
Higher efficiency (SCOP) – in retrofit scenarios, air-to-air systems often achieve a higher seasonal coefficient of performance (SCOP) than ASHPs connected to existing radiator systems. SCOP measures overall heating efficiency. A report by BESA highlights significant energy savings with air-to-air systems, especially when combined with mechanical ventilation. (BESA – Indoor Air Quality and Ventilation).

Less disruptive installation
Air-to-air systems typically require less extensive building work compared to a full ASHP retrofit with radiator replacements.

• Modular approach – clubs can install units in specific areas, phasing the investment and targeting the areas of greatest need.
• Heating and cooling – many air-to-air systems provide both heating and cooling.
• Ease of maintenance – these systems are generally simpler to maintain compared to ASHPs.

Recommendations for UK golf clubs

Consider a phased approach
Install air-to-air units in key areas (e.g., bar, restaurant) and gradually expand the system over time.

Prioritise long-term value
Don’t solely focus on upfront costs. Consider long-term running costs, maintenance requirements, and potential disruption of each system.

Conclusion
While ASHPs are a valuable technology for decarbonising heating, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. For many older UK golf clubhouses, air-to-air heat exchange systems may offer a more practical, efficient, and cost-effective pathway to reducing carbon emissions and improving comfort.

A thorough, evidence-based approach, considering the specific characteristics of each clubhouse, is crucial for making the right investment decision.