Replacing an inefficient hot water system with a cost-effective solution at The Highway in Washington

Client:

Marston’s

Sector:

Leisure & Hospitality

Services:

Hot Water System Replacement, Gas Appliance Removal, System Survey

Replacing an inefficient hot water system with a cost-effective solution at The Highway in Washington

Marston's is a leading pub and hotel operator known for its diverse portfolio of venues, from traditional community pubs to contemporary food-led venues.With a commitment to providing excellent customer experiences, maintaining efficient and reliable infrastructure across their properties is paramount.

A modern Ideal hot water tank and a complex network of insulated pipes are installed against a brick wall.
A large, cylindrical "Andrews Water Heaters" tank, surrounded by copper pipes and a pump, against a brick wall.

The challenge

We were called to The Highway in Washington to assess the condition of its existing water heating systems. The pub required a reliable and energy-efficient solution to meet its modest hot water demand.

Following a scheduled site survey, our engineers identified a condemned gas-fired water heater as an immediate issue. This appliance was no longer safe to use and required urgent replacement.

The client also expressed interest in reducing ongoing maintenance costs where possible.

Key requirements

To meet the client’s needs, our team were responsible for:

  • Safely removing the unsafe and outdated gas water heater
  • Installing a suitable replacement tailored to the site’s low demand
  • Providing a system that minimises gas usage and maintenance requirements
  • Ensuring installation caused minimal disruption to business operations

Our solution

We supplied and installed a new 250-litre single-coil hot water cylinder – a modern, cost-effective replacement for the previous gas-fired system.

The new unit is heated via the existing central heating boiler and includes an electric immersion heater for back-up an advantage the previous system did not offer.

Given there is no kitchen on site and the accommodation above the pub is served by a separate system, this solution was more than sufficient to meet the site’s limited hot water demand.

Our approach

  • Initial site survey: Engineers carried out a full inspection of the mechanical systems and diagnosed the condemned appliance.
  • Tailored system design: The solution was specifically chosen based on the site’s low hot water demand and existing infrastructure.
  • Efficient installation: We ensured a seamless replacement with no impact on the venue’s day-to-day operations.
  • Full system check: As part of our visit, we also inspected the wider heating system and found it to be operating effectively. No changes were required to the heating emitters or distribution.

The impact

The new hot water system delivers a safer, more energy-efficient, and lower-maintenance solution. By integrating seamlessly into the existing infrastructure, the installation avoided costly additional works or downtime.

With the added flexibility of the back-up immersion heater, the venue is also better prepared for any future changes in demand or unexpected boiler issues.

Key outcomes

This project not only resolved a critical compliance issue but also highlighted the value of forward-thinking maintenance in busy hospitality settings.

By acting before failure caused disruption, the client avoided unplanned downtime and potential safety risks.

The upgrade also brought the site in line with wider brand standards – a scalable, practical solution that could easily be replicated across similar venues in the estate.

We work with hospitality operators to deliver no-fuss, future-proof building services that reduce risk, cut costs, and support long-term asset performance.

If you’re ready to modernise your systems, we’re here to help. Get in touch today.

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