invisible heating systems - faq

Q. How do I compare competitors' quotes?
Q. What makes us different from our competitors?
Q. Do you install the systems you design?
Q. Does IHS supply to both domestic and commercial customers?

Q. How do I compare quotes between competitors?
Because competition for your business is intense, we're noticing a growing trend for some suppliers to undersize systems or offer what look like cheaper solutions to make the overall cost look lower.  You can assume as a rule of thumb that if you take or are offered short cuts at the outset, you'll pay for it later in higher running costs. 

We advise that you check the following:

• What is the quoted heat pump size?
• What is the quoted hot water tank size?  Does it requires an electric immerser to bring it up to temperature twice a day?  Has the company specifically referred to inclusion of a thermal store/buffer tank?  (They should; it's a key component).
• How much ground loop has been recommended relative to the heat pump size?  Is it a slinky system? (Stinginess with pipe means you pay later).
• Does the quote include the cost of all pipe, connections and fittings?  Watch out for hidden extras - costs that may be sprung on you mid-way through the job.
• Has the system been designed to be able to incorporate integration of further renewable/energy efficient features down the line (eg solar/wood-burning stove)?

Q. What makes us different from our competitors?
Experience and Knowledge - We've been designing heating systems for nearly fifteen years - longer than almost anybody else in the country -  and have built up a knowlege of our products and how they work that's hard to beat. 

Superior Products - we believe that our manifolds are probably the best on the market - designed to our specifications, they have the fastest response time of any comparable models, their lack of complexity (one unit, pre-assembled) makes them remarkably simple to install and they don't require balancing.  Our pipe is the only underfloor heating pipe that's got a CE mark for quality and is guaranteed for fifty years.  Our Hygienik Tanks (hot water storage tanks) are highly efficient; delivering fresh hot water with no requirement for an additional immerser; our heat pumps systems allow for complete control of temperature regulation in any zone throughout a building - unlike many systems on the market today. 

Total System Design - you don't have to go to other companies to incorporate separate elements such as underfloor heating, heat pump, solar collectors, domestic hot water.  And, unlike many other companies, we've been working on our designs for years now - and living with them.  We know how well they're integrated and we know what features will enhance system efficiency.  We are the only company in the UK to offer a full design-backed guarantee - if we design your heating system, we guarantee it.  Peace of mind that's second to none.

Design Excellence - Because we've been doing this for nearly fifteen years, we've built up a huge amount of knowledge and confidence in our ability to deliver to your requirements.  We put a huge amount of time and effort into each project from the earliest stages.  Each system is designed in-house and is supplied with a clear, easy to follow CAD design and full heat loss guarantee.  Every system we design is fully insurance-backed.

Q. Do you install the systems you design?
We specialise primarily in design and supply but we have a network of approved installers that we're always increasing.  On large commercial jobs, we design, supply and install (including screeding and insulation).  IHS always carry out heat pump system commissioning.  If your plumber or electrician is willing to carry out the installation, we will train them on site in Ullapool.

Q. Does IHS supply to both domestic and commercial customers?
Yes.  We design and supply energy efficient heating and cooling systems for buildings of all age, type and size to both the domestic and commercial sector.  We can supply one-room add-on underfloor heating kits or design full heating, cooling and hot water systems incorporating a range of renewables, fittings and systems into large-scale commercial units.