Upgrading a historic heating system at St Andrew’s Church, Dalton-le-Dale

Client:

St Andrew's Church

Sector:

Heritage & Religious Buildings

Services:

Oil Heating System Upgrade, Boiler Installation, Radiator & Pipework Restoration, Remote Control Integration, Specialist Coatings

Upgrading a historic heating system at St Andrew’s Church, Dalton-le-Dale

St Andrew’s Church in Dalton-le-Dale is a Grade II* listed building with origins dating back to at least the early 9th century. The church has retained its Norman heritage, most notably in the semi-circular arch and chevron moulding of its North doorway. With such deep historical significance, any modern works needed to be handled with sensitivity, ensuring the fabric and character of the church remained intact.

The challenge

The church’s committee approached us seeking a reliable upgrade to their existing oil-fired heating system. The existing system was inefficient and difficult to operate, particularly as the boiler was located in the cellar, making access to controls problematic. In addition, the church required the restoration and refinishing of existing radiators and pipework to make sure they complemented the historic surroundings.

Key requirements

  • Install a cost-effective, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly heating solution suitable for a heritage building.
  • Ensure user-friendly operation through remote controls, given the boiler’s cellar location.
  • Restore and protect existing radiators and pipework with a durable, visually sympathetic finish.
  • Deliver all works in a way that respected the Grade II* listed status of the building.

Our solution

After careful consultation with the church committee and their appointed architect, we recommended and installed a Potterton Sirius 3 50kw boiler. This system offered both efficiency and practicality, being fully compatible with a Siemens remote control panel that mirrored the boiler’s hard-wired controls – improving ease of use without frequent cellar access.

Alongside the boiler installation, we carried out restoration works to the existing radiators and pipework, making certain they remained fit for purpose while meeting modern heating demands. All radiators and pipework were powder coated in a Saturn finish, providing a long-lasting, high-quality protective layer that also blended seamlessly with the church’s interior.

Our approach

  • Collaborative planning: We worked closely with the committee and architect to agree on a system that balanced modern efficiency with heritage sensitivity.
  • Tailored installation: Our team designed a boiler system with remote operation to overcome location challenges and improve usability.
  • Specialist finishes: Finally, we applied powder coating to radiators and pipework for both visual and protective benefits.

The impact

The upgraded heating system delivered a modern, efficient solution while respecting the church’s historic fabric. The Siemens remote control panel significantly improved ease of operation, allowing the system to be managed without disruption. Restored and refinished radiators and pipework enhanced both performance and appearance, contributing to the long-term preservation of this heritage site.

Key outcomes

  • Excellent energy-efficiency: New boiler system reduced energy consumption and running costs.
  • Upgraded usability: Remote control access made the heating system far more practical for daily use.
  • A heritage-sensitive solution: Careful restoration and powder coating of radiators and pipework provided durable protection in keeping with the church’s character.
  • A future-ready system: The Potterton Sirius 3 installation will deliver long-term reliability and sustainable heating for the congregation.

Looking to sensitively bring a heritage building of your own up to modern standards? Contact us today to find out how we can make it happen.

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