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What is a Ground Source Heat Pump?

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:09:03 GMT

So, what is a Ground Source Heat Pump?

Ground source heat pumps require extensive digging to install

As we move away from our reliance on fossil fuels, we need to find new ways to heat our homes and businesses – and one way that can both reduce your carbon footprint and your energy bills is by installing a Ground Source Heat Pump. It has never been a better time to investigate it either, as thanks to the Government you could be entitled to a grant which can help pay for it.

Ground source heat pumps have been touted as a greener form of central heating, although it might not be the best possibility for everyone.

In this article, we will look at what exactly a ground source heat pump is, how it works, and how it needs to be installed. We will also examine some of the considerations you will have to make when you are deciding whether a ground source heat pump is right for you.

A ground source heat pump is designed to harness the natural heat from the ground, which is then transferred to your home in a similar way to a gas central heating system.

To make this happen, pipes need to be installed beneath the ground, either in trenches or in boreholes. Liquid is passed through this network of pipes, and then it is compressed using electricity to raise the temperature before that water is passed through the radiators or underfloor heating in your home.

The heated water that is left over is then stored in a hot water cylinder for use in hot taps, for showers, and for baths.

How Does a Ground Source Heat Pump Work?

As with other central heating systems, a ground source system is a closed loop system. Instead of a combustion event heating the water that goes to the radiators, it is the ambient heat generated from the ground that is compressed and then pumped around the house.

The pipes are filled with Thermic Transfer Fluid, also known as a ‘brine’, and this is a mixture of anti-freeze and water. As this passes through the network of pipes under the ground, it warms to the temperature around it – which can be much warmer than the air temperature.

The TTF solution is then compressed before going through the heat exchanger. This uses electricity, which can be made more environmentally friendly by choosing electricity from renewable sources. The compression raises the temperature of the water mixture, which can reach about 50° – just about 10° lower than the temperature tends to be in a gas boiler (but at a fraction of the cost).

After the compression, the mixture is then sent around all the radiators and through the underfloor heating to heat the house, while the rest is stored safely in the hot water cylinder, ready to be used for your shower or bath.

Things to Think About When Considering a Ground Source Heat Pump

There are a couple of things that you need to consider when you are comparing heating systems, and especially with ground source heat pumps.

Space

Although it might sound obvious, the more ground area that the network of pipes can cover, the better it will work. The pipes are usually laid in trenches close to the house, and a 3 or 4-bed new build house with good insulation would need at least two trenches dug, at 30-40m in length.

This means that to get the most out of ground source heating, you need a lot of outside space that can be dug up.

Another possibility is to create a borehole and dig down instead of along. This choice takes up less room and usually provides more heat (the earth is warmer the deeper you go), but they are more costly to install.

Access

Initial installation requires access to your (large) garden for digging machinery, whether you are going to make trenches or boreholes.

Upgrading and Insulation

The better insulated your home is, the less work the heat pump must do. In many cases, it is worth installing the ground source heat pump during the building stage or if you are already planning to renovate the property.

Experts recommend using a ground source heat pump on a new build house that has plenty of garden space, because then you can install underfloor heating and ensure that you have the best insulation possible.

Cost

There is no simple way to put this – but the biggest obstacle for most people when it comes to installing a ground source heat pump is the cost.

At the moment, the cost of installing a ground source heat pump is about £28,000 for trenches and £57,000 for the boreholes.

Many people consider this an investment and expect to recoup some of the costs through savings in energy bills.

However, it can be difficult to accurately predict what the payback period is because it depends on several factors, including:

System efficiency
Insulation
Type of system replaced.
Using the controls properly
How you are using the heat produced

While ground source heat pumps are more expensive to install, they are considered to be more efficient than air source heat pumps – mainly because the soil temperature does not go below 5° throughout the year, which means there is less efficiency variance.

There are a few differences you might find when you are using a ground source heat pump.

Your home might take longer to heat up.
You might need to have the heating on for longer periods during the day.
If you have extra heating needs, or hot water needs, you might find you need an electric heater to meet demand.
The controls are not usually too intuitive, which means you need to ensure that the installer gives you a full demonstration and you keep the user manual handy.

What to Expect from a Ground Source Heat Pump

Are There Any Schemes to Help with the Installation Costs?

There are different ways that you can get some help towards the installation costs of a ground source heat pump. In England and Wales, this is through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) .

If you meet the criteria, you will be awarded a grant of £7.500 towards the cost of your installation . This will be claimed on your behalf by the installation team and the value taken off the invoice.

There are similar schemes available in Scotland and Ireland.

Is it Worth Installing a Ground Source Heat Pump?

This is where the decision really comes down to you. For many people, the lack of garden space and the cost of the installation are the deciding factors, but if you have acres of land and can afford to get the diggers in, you could find that it is way more efficient than other heating systems.

If you want to discuss your options, the best people to talk to are the Renewables team at GMS . We have the knowledge and experience you can rely on to help you make the right decision.

How Do You Choose the Best Central Heating System for Your Home?

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:09:02 GMT

What is Central Heating?

Recognised as one of the cheapest and most straightforward ways to heat a home, a gas central heating system requires connection to the national gas grid system. Of course, natural gas is considered to be a fossil fuel, so it is not the most sustainable option, and may even be completely phased out in the next decade or so.

It might not be future proof, but it is still the most popular way to heat your home.

Types of Central Heating

Central heating is the term used to describe the system that provides your home with warmth. This might incorporate a boiler, radiators, or even underfloor heating, and can also include the provision of hot water.

Most houses that we live in now will have some form of central heating system – a far cry from the houses of the recent past where heating came from the Aga in the kitchen or fireplaces downstairs.

While there are people looking to move away from fossil fuels and a reliance on the National Grid by harnessing renewable energy sources, the majority of people still heat their homes using natural gas. In fact, according to the Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy, 78% of homes in England, Wales, and Scotland have mains gas central heating.

If you are trying to decide which type of central heating system best suits you, there are a few things to consider. Before we get into that, let’s check out the different types of central heating systems that are already available.

Gas

a Worcester Bosch gas boiler

Oil

Less than 5% of homes in Scotland, England, and Wales are heated using oil, but it remains one of the most popular heating sources in Ireland.

Oil central heating is another ‘wet’ system, so the oil combusts to heat water which is pushed through radiators. These systems incorporate floor standing boilers, and can be used as a heating system only, or to provide hot water. Unlike most gas systems, hot water is stored in cylinder rather than delivered on demand.

An oil boiler requires an external tank (usually in the garden of the property), and oil is bought in bulk to fill it – usually on a yearly basis. An oil tanker will usually deliver this by road.

LPG

Gas central heating is known as a ‘wet’ system, which means that the heat produced is used to heat water, which is then passed through the radiators to heat them up. This is caused by combustion. Hot water created by this process may also be stored in a cylinder to provide heat to water used in the bath or shower, or when filling the sink to wash the dishes.

Gas is piped into the home from the grid as it is needed, and most people pay both a standing charge for this as well as a charge for the gas that they need. This can be paid monthly or quarterly, or even on a pay-as-you-go basis.

In some cases, the gas boiler system heats up the water on demand, while in others it is stored until it is needed.

Electric

Worcester Bosch Oil Tank, situated in the garden

Nearly every single home in the UK is on the electric grid, which means that electric heating is relatively cheap and simple to install and produces a much smaller carbon footprint than fossil fuel systems.

However, it can be expensive to run unless you have solar panels or the like to create your own green energy.

Again, oil is a fossil fuel, and one of the high-carbon systems that the government is looking to phase out – new homes that are not on the gas grid will not be able to be heated using oil when built after 2025.

Also known as direct electric heating, this is a system where every room has separate heaters that are controlled individually. While this can be expensive, it does mean that you can adjust which rooms are heated depending on their use.

These systems usually have a separate hot water system, usually heated via an electric boiler or an immersion heater.

Electric Radiators

Electric Central Heating

This is essentially an electric version of gas central heating, featuring an electric boiler that is connected to water-filled radiators via pipes. Instead of combustion, the electric boiler uses something similar to the element of a kettle to heat the water.

Electric boilers are small and relatively quiet, and they do not require a gas pipe or a flue.

Storage Heaters

Storage heaters are quite an old-fashioned way of heating your home. Storage heaters, as the name suggests, store heat inside and release it gradually through the day. They usually heat up at night when electricity prices are lower (off peak).

Many users of an older storage heating system will know that these can end up being quite cold in the evening, but newer models have much better heat retention and are generally more dependable.

Infrared Heating

This is a thoroughly modern form of direct electric heating, which radiates infrared heat into a room and warming people and objects rather than the air.

This works as the panel emits light, which vibrates when it comes into contact with an object, creating warmth. The heat produced at this contact can then spread into the room. Infrared systems are thin panels, and they can be installed into walls, ceilings, and floors – some people disguise them as artworks or using photographs.

Some of the more modern options can also be used like wallpaper – they are as thin and flexible as fabric, which means a much more streamlined and stylish finish to your room.

Secondary Electric Heating

Whether you have renewable heat sources, an oil or gas heater, or you are using an electrical system, you might need to add some sort of secondary electric heating to stay cosy. These can include the obvious things like heaters, but also things like plinth heaters and towel rails.

Bathrooms often rely on heated towel rails to provide warmth

In the UK, around 200,000 homes that are not on the gas grid use Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG). This is still a fossil fuel and has been the installation of choice for many new build properties in rural areas.

Similarly to oil, LPG is delivered by road – some properties will have it delivered into a communal tank where it is piped into the properties (much like natural gas), but other people will have it delivered in canisters that resemble the gas you might get for your barbecue.

An LPG Cylinder

Some people use LPG as the sole source of heat and hot water for their home, whereas others will use it as a back up for their solar powered heating system.

Renewables

With such a focus on removing fossil fuels and reducing our reliance on things like gas and oil that can cause such harm to the environment, it is important to consider what ‘greener,’ more renewable energy sources might be available for your heating system.

You might choose to refurbish your heating system using renewable energy if you want to reduce your carbon footprint, remove yourself from mains energy systems, or merely want to avoid dealing with the volatile prices associated with fossil fuels.

Air Source Heat Pumps

Air source heat pumps can replace your gas or oil systems by converting ambient air into heat through compression. This heat can be transferred into water if you have a wet system, and then pumped through the radiators. It can also be used to create warm air, which can be pumped into your home.

An air source heat pump is a central heating system that is energy efficient and ecologically aware

These systems have an external unit which collects ambient air, then compresses it. A heat exchanger changes the hot air into water, which then travels through the radiators.

Ground Source Heat Pumps

Similarly to an air source heat pump, ground source heat pumps do not rely on fossil fuels. Instead, they absorb the natural heat of the ground, compress it, and then transfer that heat into the central heating system.

Ground source heat pumps require a lot of room; to heat a typical 3–4-bedroom house, you would need to dig two trenches, each about 30 metres long to lay pipes. This means that not only will you need an extensive amount of outdoor space, but you will also need to ensure there is easy access for digging machinery.

Ground source heat pumps are definitely more expensive and cause more upheaval, but they do have the added benefit of cheaper running costs than almost all other options.

Biomass boilers are usually a good option for smaller homes that are not on the gas grid. This, as the name suggests, uses organic items to create energy. This is usually things like wood and plants in the form of chips, logs, pellets, or blocks.

Biomass boilers operate through combustion in a similar way to fossil fuel systems, but they have much less of a carbon footprint – releasing the same amount of carbon dioxide as the plants used.

Biomass Boilers

What is the Right Type of Heating System for You?

To choose what type of heating system will work best for you and your property is a very personal decision, but there are some things that you should consider.

Installation Cost

Whether you are installing a completely new system or you are upgrading your current central heating, there will be installation costs (and related upheaval) to consider.

Installation costs can vary widely, depending on a number of factors, from the size of the property through to the type of system you are looking to install.

Electric heating systems are usually the cheapest to install, and you will probably find that ground source heat pump systems are the most expensive.

Remember that if you are upgrading your inefficient fossil fuel system to a greener, more efficient type of renewable energy system, then you might qualify for a grant from the Government of up to £7,500 as part of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme .

Size of property

It might seem obvious, but the bigger the property, the more expensive the installation is likely to be.

Size of property can also affect ongoing costs as well as effectiveness in most systems.

If you want to install a ground source heat pump system, then you will need a big garden or land attached to place the trenches.

Underfloor heating might not work effectively enough in a big property to negate the need for additional heat sources like towel heaters or radiators.

Age of Property

Older properties come with their share of charms, but they also come with difficulties – especially when it comes to modernization options.

To improve the efficiency of your home in any case, you should consider insulation – in the roof at least, and in the walls too if you can manage it. This will make the new system work more effectively and reduce the amount of wasted energy, so that is a bonus for your bank balance.

Availability

While pretty much every house in the UK is on the electric grid, and most houses are on the natural gas grid, not all homes have access to these services.

Your choices may be limited to what your house is attached to, so this needs to be considered. Things like renewable energy sources (solar, biomass, air source and ground source heat pumps) are usually more widely available, but there may be limits depending on your location.

Ongoing Costs

This is the main reason why people decide to upgrade in the first place – to save money in the long run.

Measuring the cost savings is not simple, but if you are upgrading any system, you should be confident that it will run more efficiently, which means it should be more cost-effective.

Electric systems are known to have the most expenses ongoing expenses, and ground source heat pumps tend to be the cheapest, but there is a lot of middle ground there that is not covered.

The best thing you can do is get the advice of an expert . They will be able to give you accurate costings, help you plan for the unavoidable upheaval that a new central heating system will cause, and talk you through the pros and cons of each type of system, so you know you are choosing the best one to suit you. Our central heating team is made up of experts in all areas of heating, from gas and oil through to renewables, so you know you will be in safe hands. Call us today to find out more.

Simple Ways to Help You Understand Your New Gas Boiler

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:08:58 GMT

Components of a Gas Boiler

Other types of heating and hot water systems exist ; some more rural areas might use oil boilers or LPG. More modern homes, and those who want to reduce their carbon footprint, have moved away from fossil fuels, using ground or air heat pumps or biomass boilers to power their systems.

Gas boilers might not be the best choice environmentally, but the chances are you will have a gas central heating system in your home, so it is a good idea to understand as much as you can about it – from the names of the components to how it works. According to the ONS , 74% of homes in the UK use natural gas to heat their homes.

In this article, we will take you through the basics of the system that you have in your home or business, name some of the components, and discuss how this connects to your radiators and is controlled by your thermostats.

Many homes and businesses are connected to the natural gas grid and use this gas to heat their homes, produce hot water for taps, showers, and baths, and sometimes to cook with.

A Worcester gas boiler being installed on a wall

Let’s start by defining some of the components that are in your gas boiler.

Burner: Where the mixture of gas and air ignites to produce a flame
Pilot Light: Small flame that remains alight constantly and is used to ignite the main burner.
Heat Exchanger: Transfers heat from the flame into the water.
Pressure Gauge: Shows that the pressure of the system is in safe working parameters.
Flame Supervision Device: Monitors gas supply; cuts gas supply if flame goes out to prevent gas leaks.
Gas Valve: Controls the flow of gas into the burner.
Thermostat: Signals the boiler to turn on and off as needed based on temperature in room.

Common Gas Boiler Types

There are three different types of gas boiler, and it should be reasonably simple to work out which one you have in your home or business.

Regular/Standard Boiler

This is one of the older systems and consists of a heating and hot water system connected to a hot water cylinder. A regular gas boiler also needs a cold-water tank attached to maintain water levels and pressure.

System Boiler

In this system, you will have a gas boiler containing all the components and a separate hot water cylinder. These systems are designed to allow multiple taps to be in use at once without losing water pressure.

Combi Boiler

Potentially the most modern version of fossil fuel-based boilers, the combi boiler provides hot water on demand with no need for a cold water storage tank or a hot water cylinder. It is also considered to be highly efficient.

A boiler door opened to show the control panel

The heating system in your house probably has not changed much from the very earliest central heating systems – radiators and the boiler are connected on a closed loop, and the heating is provided using water. How that happens might seem like a bit of a mystery, but it is relatively simple.

Your boiler is designed to heat water steadily, which is then pumped around your home through each radiator.

To start with, the gas valve allows a certain amount of gas to travel into the burner from the mains supply. This then combusts with air thanks to the pilot light and creates a flame. In more modern boilers, combustion is achieved using an electric ignition switch.

The heat produced by the flame in the burner is then transferred to water using a heat exchanger. The water reaches a temperature of around 60°.

This heated water is then pumped through the system following a continuous circuit of pipe that joins every radiator in the system. Each radiator panel has part of this loop going back and forth (or up and down) through the radiator, which exposes the metal surface to more heat, making it easier to radiate heat into the room. The copper pipes behind the panel are bent at right angles, which produces the maximum area of heating surface.

After passing through all the radiators, the water returns to the boiler. At this point, it will have cooled down significantly, so will need to be reheated to be sent onward again.

The Heating Journey

Controlling Your Heating

Obviously, you don’t want to have your heating on all the time – your house would soon be unbearably hot, even in the winter, and that is not even considering the sky-high energy bills that this would create.

Controlling heating is therefore very important, and there are a few ways you can do this.

Thermostats

Thermostats are usually found on the wall of one of the rooms in your home. These can be used in one of three ways:

Manual on/off: Turn the heating off and on as you need it.
Temperature Based: The thermostat monitors the temperature of the room and turns the boiler on and off depending on what the sensors are saying.
Time Control: Thermometers with this feature will automatically turn the heating on or off, depending what times you have set on the system.

Smart Thermostats

As with other home appliances and systems, there are an increasing number of smart thermostat systems being created. With these, users can control their heating using an app or even through their mobile phone.

Thermostatic Radio Valves

Thermostatic Radio Valves (TRVs) are a great way to ensure that the temperature of each of the rooms in the house is correct. You can set a TRV to heat a radiator less in rooms that do not get much use, or to increase heat to radiators in rooms that need a boost.

Got a Gas Boiler Question?

Here at GMS, we have Gas Safe-registered engineers on hand who can help you arrange everything from annual services to emergency repairs. If you are looking to upgrade your central heating system, or you want to reduce the carbon footprint of your home, then you might want to speak to our Renewables team, who will be happy to discuss options for systems like Air Source Heat Pumps . You can contact us today via email or on the telephone.

What Makes an Eco Home?

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:08:56 GMT

Domestic emissions account for up to 16% of the UK’s carbon footprint.

Eco Homes rely on renewable energy sources like these solar panels.

(Photo by Pixabay: https://www.pexels.com/photo/blue-solar-panel-board-356036/)

The average three-bedroomed house in the UK produces 2.7 tonnes of CO2 in a year. In fact, when it comes to protecting the environment, residential emissions are the only type of emissions that have not fallen since 2014.

With this in mind, savvy homeowners are making the decision to move towards having a ‘greener’ home – and in this article, we are going to discuss what that looks like.

There is a lot going on in politics and the wider world regarding carbon emissions, with corporations and individuals making the effort to reduce the impact that they are having on the environment.

Of course, we can cut out unnecessary car journeys or stop travelling via air, but have you thought about the impact on the environment that your home has ?

Must-Haves for an Eco Home

In an ideal world, we would all be able to build our own homes, to our own specifications – that is why shows like Grand Designs remain so popular, and why locations like Graven Hill in Bicester, where the majority of properties are self-build, are a draw for homebuyers.

If you are designing and building your own property, you can implement eco-friendly options from the very beginning – choosing local suppliers, to reduce carbon emissions from travelling.

Other must-haves for an eco-home include:

Passive Design – a sustainable framework that uses both the natural climate and landscape as part of the design process. This might include having large, south facing windows to maximise heat and light, even in the winter. You may also want to consider planting, like a tree to block out the worst of the sun in the summer, but that drops leaves in the winter to allow more light in.
Underfloor heating – no unsightly radiator panels and a heat exchange system that is perfect for a more efficient, eco-friendly central heating system.
Heat Pumps – Passive collection of heat, compressed by electricity, then used to heat the home. More on this later.
Insulation and (at least) double glazing – heat loss through walls, the ceiling, and the windows can make heating less effective, so top notch insulation should be a no-brainer.
Recycled materials – saving building materials and even furniture from landfill is much more ecologically aware and may also be cheaper.
Smart Controls – adding things like smart thermostats and lighting controls, that can be adjusted with your voice or through your smartphone helps to save energy – avoiding heating an empty home, making sure that the lights are off when you are not in the room, and even controlling the temperature or brightness according to your personal specifications.

Retrofitting Options

If a self-build isn’t on the cards, maybe you might want to consider upgrading your current home.

Retrofitting ecologically friendly technology into your home might mean some initial outlay, but it makes sense in several ways.

Firstly, reducing your carbon footprint. Adding all the below changes could save as much as 5.17 tonnes of CO2 a year.

Then there is the cost savings option. With all these additions, you could be looking at as much as a £2000 saving on your energy bills each year.

Lastly, there is resale value. Studies have shown that houses with established eco-friendly technology have an increased value – up to 14%.

While completing all the upgrades listed below might cost around £35,000 – which is a rather large investment – there are several schemes that can help, like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme , as well as grants for installing solar panels.

Let’s check out some of the changes you might consider making to your home.

Roof Insulation

Did you know that 25% of the heat lost from your home goes through the roof? Loft insulation is one of the cheaper ways to improve efficiency and reduce your heating bills, coming out at an average price of less than £1k for a typical three-bed family home.

Cavity Wall Insulation

In most houses built within the last century, cavity walls (two walls with a void in between) have been the norm for construction, so chances are that you have this. Cavity walls are an easy insulation fix, although it can take some time and cost a little bit more.

A typical three-bedroom home will cost anywhere between £2.5k and £3k for an expert to come and fill the cavity with heat retaining material – but this will prevent you from losing up to 35% of the heat from your home.

Insulating your home in this way can reduce your heating bills by as much as 60% or even more.

Solar Panels

Solar panels are an obvious choice, especially if your house is positioned in such a way that you can make the most of available sunlight. Solar panels can cost as much as £8,000, but there are grants available to help you.

In a typical three bed house, this could reduce bills by up to 64% and it can be used to power appliances, like your Electric Vehicle charger and your underfloor heating.

Heat Pump

The government are looking to stop supporting fossil fuel-based heating systems in houses, starting with new builds – which means that if you are considering updating your boiler, you might want to think about installing a heat pump. These can be expensive to get installed, especially those that are ground sourced, but they are at least three times more efficient than a gas boiler.

An air source heat pump is a central heating system that is energy efficient and great for an eco home

While the costs of this are high, up to £35,000 or more, you can offset some of this with the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) , with a grant from the government.

Other alternative central heating systems can include air source heat pumps, solar hot water heaters, biomass boilers, and even electric boilers.

To make the most out of your solar panels, you should consider installing a solar battery to store the collected energy created from your panels.

This can cost around £4,500, but it will allow you to use up to 80% of the electricity you produce as opposed to the 50% that you would get access to without the battery. While the cost savings might be negligible, solar batteries further reduce your carbon footprint and your reliance on the National Grid.

Solar Battery

EV Charger

If you own an electric vehicle, you need to install a charger in your home. These cost around £1,000 (but there are many grants and special offers available that can help you reduce the cost). If you can power it by solar, for example, it’s really a no-brainer – especially if you consider that it will cost about 43% less to charge from your home.

Smart Thermostat

This might be the easiest way to make cost and energy savings in your home. It is also the cheapest change – costing around £225 for a typical three-bedroom home.

Smart thermostats are connected to your home Wi-Fi system, so you can switch it on and off, turn the heating up or down, and adjust for each room – all using your smartphone or your voice assistant. These smart thermostats are already in about 1.7 million homes in the UK, saving on average around 14% in heating bills.

Benefits of an Eco Home

There are several different benefits that upgrading using eco-friendly technology, including:

Cut energy bills by around 76%
Raise your property’s EPC rating
Less dependent on the gas and electric grid
Increase the value of your home by around 14%
Shrinks your carbon footprint

The team at GMS are happy to help you discover more about how you can upgrade your home to be more efficient, more effective, and more ecologically friendly – contact us to find out more.

Technology in Your Bathroom

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:08:54 GMT

Smart Toilet Technology

With the Internet of Things (IoT) and technology becoming a firm fixture in many of our homes, so-called ‘smart’ versions of appliances and installations are fast becoming the norm.

In our connected homes, we can use voice assistants like Google Nest and Alexa to do everything from telling us the weather to controlling the lights and the heating. Our fridges can show us exactly what is inside and when it will go out of date, and even our kettles can be preprogrammed to prepare water at exactly the right temperature for our morning coffee.

It’s no surprise, then, that bathrooms are also getting the smart treatment. People like you are choosing to make their bathrooms more technological – not only for things like touch-free simplicity, but also to help with reducing waste and costs, and for safety. There is also the addition of sensor technology that can warn of leaks and other potential problems, saving time and money in the long run.

One of the best things about upgrading your bathroom to something a bit more innovative and technical is that not only will you be bang on trend (and increasing the value of your home by each installation), but you don’t need to do a whole bathroom refurb – these items can be retrofitted in most cases, reducing the mess and fuss.

The bathroom of the future is already here, and it is easier to complete than you might think. Below are just some of the amazing tech-boosted additions you could make to your bathroom.

We probably have Japanese culture to thank for smart toilets, but that isn’t to say that they aren’t a great addition to your bathroom.

Smart toilets can do everything from heating the seat (a real boon, especially on cold winter nights) to providing bidet functions, and they can also be completely touch-free too. Antibacterial rims, male and female settings, automatic flushing, and even music and lighting – all from what looks like a normal toilet.

These smart toilets might be bursting with innovation, but they are also smaller than a traditional toilet and are designed to be more water and energy-efficient.

We’ve come a long way from toilet sheds in the garden in the Western World.

(Photo by Pixabay: https://www.pexels.com/photo/green-door-and-green-leafed-plants-277552/)

Smart Showers

In a similar vein, the smart shower can have presets which allow you to control everything from the temperature and the flow to the amount of time you can spend showering. Not only is this excellent as a water and energy saving device, but it can also provide better safety for elderly or very young people – temperatures cannot be accidentally set too high.

Rain showers can be intense

(Photo by Polina Kovaleva: https://www.pexels.com/photo/stainless-steel-shower-head-on-white-brick-wall-5644300/)

In combination with new and improved shower heads, a smart shower can introduce you to more thorough cleaning with less water, or even the best spa experience with a rain or droplet shower.

Smart Baths

A decade or so ago, the most luxurious baths were the spa baths, with hydro jets and bubbles galore. Today, the ultimate in bath technology is things like autofill, temperature selection, and depth set for each user’s preference.

Again, these measures are as much about safety (temperature and depth) as they are about convenience, and they can even help reduce your energy consumption.

Adjustable Privacy Glass

At the touch of a button (or through an app, or using your voice), you can change the opacity of your privacy glass in the bathroom.

Whether you want it completely clear (or completely opaque), adjustable privacy glass still lets in lots of glorious natural light but maintains your dignity. For those who enjoy a spot of entertainment in the shower, you can also connect these glass screens to your smartphone via Bluetooth and watch a movie or your favourite TV show.

Underfloor Heating in Your Bathroom

This might be the most luxurious feeling in the world – the warmth seeping from the floor as you enter your bathroom. While underfloor heating in bathrooms is nothing new, the sheer range of options that are available (including things like smart thermostats and programmable controls) make them a must for any modern bathroom where comfort is important.

Electric Underfloor Heating

Out of all the upgrades you could make in your bathroom, underfloor heating might cause the most upheaval, but it can mean that you won’t need any unsightly radiator panels in the room anymore.

Touch-Free Faucets

If you imagine a touch-free tap, you might be thinking of public restrooms or commercial kitchens – but they have had a designer makeover and could be the perfect addition to your smart bathroom.

Designed to not only reduce the number of touchpoints in your bathroom for health reasons, they can now also be programmed to recognize the user and provide a more personalized experience. Everything from flow to temperature can be altered to suit.

There is more to a sink than just taps

(Photo by julie aagaard: https://www.pexels.com/photo/white-sink-2207894/)

Responsive Lighting

These taps can also reduce unnecessary water usage and save both money and energy, too.

Getting up in the middle of the night and turning the bathroom light on can be disastrous. Not only are you more likely to waken up fully by doing this, but you might also even disturb your family, especially in an ensuite.

Responsive lighting can range from sensors that turn lights on as you walk into a room, to tiny little LEDs that look like landing strip lights at an airport so you can see your way to the facilities without the bright glare of fluorescent.

Low-level lighting can provide that soothing, dull constant glow, or you can hook up some chromatic lights to set the mood for your bathroom trip – soothing greens or bright, vibrant oranges, perhaps.

Smart Mirrors

A smart mirror can be almost anything you want it to be. From what is essentially a computer screen or a Heads-Up Display (HUD) you might recognize from a video game to a completely normal-looking mirror.

Smart mirrors can connect to your Wi-Fi, ready to provide you with things like the news headlines and the weather while you brush your teeth. You can watch TV on it through Bluetooth, or even have your skin analysed by AI to work on any blemishes.

They can be wireless chargers for your smartphone, watch, or ear buds, they can demist automatically so you can always see, and they could even run through your to-do list to ensure that you never miss an appointment.

Pipe Sensors

For most homeowners, the idea of a leak or some sort of plumbing or heating breakdown could be quite stressful – but modern pipe technology includes special sensors that are designed to monitor the integrity of the pipes through indicators like water pressure.

Early warning about potential problems is obviously going to help save money – and do better for the environment too.

If you want to discuss upgrading your bathroom using some of this smart, innovative technology, then our team can help – from design and planning right through to fitting, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.

What is the Average Carbon Footprint in the UK?

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:08:52 GMT

The Climate Change Act 2008.

Reducing Carbon Emissions is a shared goal

(Photo by Chris LeBoutillier: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-smokestack-emission-of-an-industrial-exhaust-pipes-6675078/)

According to the ONS, households have been the biggest emitter of Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) in the UK since 2015.

With a carbon output covering things like heating, food, travel, and even the Internet, the total household emissions of the UK in 2021 were 133 million tonnes – a staggering 40% of total emissions .

While the term ‘carbon footprint’ refers to the amount of carbon emitted as a result ofthe consumption of fossil fuels , there are actually seven main greenhouse gases that are contributing to environmental damage:

Carbon dioxide (CO2)
Methane (CH4)
Nitrous Oxide (N2O)
Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)
Perfluorocarbons (PFCs)
Nitrogen Trifluoride (NF3)
Sulphur Hexaflouride (SF6)

In this article, we will be focusing on carbon, our carbon footprint, and give some ideas about how we can reduce carbon emissions.

A growing worry about the long-term effect of the release of these gases into our atmosphere has been the driving force in many strands of government forces for change, but the legislation really started in 2008.

The government created this act to create a statutory target – reduce the GHG produced by the UK by at least 80% by 2050, compared to the levels in 1990. This represented an enormous undertaking – and one that is still in progress today.

In fact, an addendum to this Act in 2019 produced secondary legislation to reduce carbon emissions by at least 100%. This Net-Zero ideal is one that you will have heard of; many large businesses are basing their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) plans on similar targets, cars are being produced to be greener, and, of course, homes are under scrutiny too.

It is worth mentioning that if the Climate Change Act (updated) target is met, this means that the UK will completely stop contributing to global emissions by 2050.

Main Sources of Carbon Emissions in the Home

Heating

Domestic heating is, unsurprisingly, the biggest source of carbon emissions. Typically, people in the UK use their heating for about 34 weeks a year – although it can feel much longer – and around 85% of UK homes use natural gas.

According to Nesta , 38% of all gas use can be attributed to home heating systems.

The average gas boiler emits 2.2 tonnes of CO2 a year – which means that gas boilers in homes produce more than double the amount of carbon emissions from all the gas-fired power stations in the UK combined.

A boiler door opened to show the control panel

This massive contributor to the GHGs is the main reason that the government offers a grant towards a newer, renewable heating system through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS).

Electricity

Electricity might be cleaner in general than fossil fuels, but when it is gas or other fuels that are used to produce said energy, there is a carbon footprint to consider.

According to the government, each kWh of electricity emits 0.232g of carbon. Over a year, that equates to 1.1 tonnes.

As a whole, the UK spends £3.4 billion annually, which equates to 9,340 kWh per home for the year.

Transportation

Around 77% of people in the UK own a car, and they are responsible for approximately 55% of all emissions. 79% of all road vehicles are cars.

The more journeys you make, the more carbon you are emitting. Taking the bus or other public transport can help reduce that number down. Buying an electric vehicle (that you charge at home using solar panels), too.

Food

In 2019, carbon emissions from food made up about 35% of all UK emissions – about 160 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent. Aside from this hefty number, it is the sheer wastefulness we have regarding food that is concerning. UK households waste 4.5 million tonnes of food every year, which works out at a cost of about £700 per year for an average family.

Internet Use

This might shock you, but every time you perform a Google search, you are responsible for about 10g of carbon dioxide emissions. This figure combines the small amount of energy you are using to power your device of choice, as well as the energy cost for powering the enormous data centre at Google.

Emails are not much better – according to the BBC , sending an email with attachments, like pictures, can emit up to 50g of CO2.

It’s Not All Doom and Gloom

According to the data from the Committee on Climate Change, the average carbon footprint in the UK has reduced by 4.7 tonnes since 1990 – this equates to 47%. A further reduction of 3.6 tonnes by 2030 will keep us on track to hit that Net Zero by 2050, despite the slight increase we saw in emissions in 2020 (a 4% rise from 2019).

If you want to do your part in reducing emissions, you might want to consider upgrading your central heating. Renewable energy, like air source and ground source heat pumps can even be part funded by the government, if you meet the criteria. Our team is here to help you navigate your upgrade, completely green or not.

The History of Plumbing

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:08:47 GMT

Pre-civilisation Plumbing

Pipes that convey fluid? That’s plumbing.

Photo by jiawei cui: https://www.pexels.com/photo/chrome-pipe-lines-2310904/

Plumbing is a term used to describe a system that conveys fluids .

“The system of pipes, tanks, fittings, and other apparatus required for the water supply, heating, and sanitation in a building”

(Oxford English Dictionary)

Plumbing can also describe the action of repairing or replacing pipes, valves, tanks and other plumbing fixtures.

Usually, we use the term plumbing to cover systems like potable water delivery, waste removal, and heating/cooling. The infrastructure of plumbing is an essential part of sanitation and public health planning; without it, there would be serious problems.

The etymology of the word ‘plumbing’ is an example of the belief we have in the invention of plumbing coming from the Romans – the word derives from the Latin plumbum because the pipes used in fluid systems in the Roman Empire were made of lead.

However, the real history of plumbing extends way further back than the Romans, although they did have a hand in making things much more efficient.

Nomadic tribes would base their settlements around the provision of water, preferring to stay near places where there was plentiful surface water (like rivers or natural springs). It was in the Neolithic period that wells started to be dug, and water collected and transported by hand, with evidence of this dating back to 8500BCE in what is now Cyprus. These were the first water wells, but the first time we have uncovered evidence of what could be a two-channel freshwater/wastewater system indoors was in the houses of Skara Brae . Dating from around 3000BCE, this was a Neolithic settlement in the Orkney Islands in Scotland, where there was also evidence of a cell-like structure that could well have been the first indoor latrine.

Across all ancient civilizations, the beginnings of crude sanitation and water delivery systems were developing.

Ancient Mayans developed interconnected wells using underwater tunnels, and the Mesopotamians started using clay pipes in 4000BCE to both remove wastewater and to collect rainwater. These pipes were designed to have detachable segments, which meant they could be replaced or repaired, as well as just being easy to clean. The Mesopotamians seem to have been the first brick-built latrines (dating from 3200BCE).

In Ancient Egypt (about 2400BCE), pyramids were discovered to have a network of copper drainage pipes, while in Ancient China, is where we have found the earliest examples of deep-water wells being dug.

When it comes to public water supply and sanitation, it is the Indus Valley where we have the earliest evidence of shared plumbing. Both private and public baths and latrines were linked to open street drains, and then discharged into the docks – until sewage was transported underground.

The Ancient Greeks weren’t left behind with all this. Not only did they develop extensive and advanced underground clay pipe systems for both sanitation and water supply, but they were also the first ones to come up with a flush toilet, using clean water.

But What About the Romans?

There is a good reason why we credit the Romans for much of our infrastructure – and part of that is the innovation relating to plumbing.

To start with, let’s consider the Cloaca Maxima. One of the world’s earliest sewage systems, running from Fort Augustum into Ponte Rotto or Ponte Palatino on the River Tiber, public latrines were built over it, and it removed waste as well as draining the marshes.

Of course, they built aqueducts and the Noria (water wheels) to supply them, and these aqueducts and pipes would terminate in public wells, fountains, and even private residences (using lead pipes, of course).

Cultural Impact on Sanitation

In Islamic tradition, there is a lot of importance placed on cleanliness and personal hygiene, which means that regular washing and bathing is an important part of religious beliefs in Islamic countries. Islamic cities developed early water supply systems using hydraulics, but they did not really focus on sanitation, meaning that canals, waterways, and even streets were corrupted with things like corpses as well as human (and animal) waste.

In Medieval Europe, the Church urged followers to visit the public baths (separately based on gender, naturally). The urge for better sanitation and water supply did not leave Europe with the collapse of the Roman Empire, as is sometimes believed, but in fact bathhouses remained a popular fixture in bigger cities.

Into the High Middle Ages, little detail is known about plumbing – but we do know that unsanitary conditions were at least partially responsible for the multiple plagues like the Black Death which resulted in such high levels of mortality.

European Plumbing

Europe was really the home of plumbing in the early (modern) times. Most cities didn’t really have a functioning sewage system until the Industrial Era – instead, relying on either pail closets, outhouses and cesspits to collect human waste (or worse, letting it run into the streets and relying on rain showers to run it down the road.

In London, the contents of the outhouses were collected nightly by specially commissioned wagons to be delivered to nitrate beds. This created earth that was rich in minerals, especially saltpetre, which was an essential ingredient in gunpowder.

The Industrial Revolution

During the 18th Century, the rapidly growing population of London demonstrated that there was a need for private water supply networks – this became the infrastructure that we know today, developed over many centuries before (and after).

Treated water was seen as one of the most important parts of this, and the first instance of this came from James Simpson of the Chelsea Waterworks Company in 1829. The idea then become more mainstream after a cholera outbreak in 1854 in Broad Street, attributed to contaminated water.

Before modern sewerage systems, cesspools and other waster collectors were the answer to municipal sanitation – relying on gravity to discharge to surface waters and causing multiple outbreaks of diseases. Around 1900, the importance of treating these discharged waters became part of public health intervention, and drastically reduced incidences of water-borne diseases in the most crowded areas of London (which is attributed to increasing life expectancy).

A Note on Sewage Treatment

Sewage was used as fertilizer on agricultural land, until the demand was outstripped by the supply, and something needed to be done about it. In the 1840s, cotton mill owner James Smith created trials of sewerage farms, looking for ways to treat sewage before discharge to make it less damaging. He came up with flat-bottomed tanks as reservoirs (a patent later filled by William Higgs) and that lead to the idea that the waste could be chemically treated as well as relying on gravity and sedimentation to separate it.

Initially, the chemicals were employed to treat the odour, then drained, and the settled solids were removed. It wasn’t long before it was discovered that the addition of oxygen would also remove odours – this was the earliest experiments with aerobic and anaerobic biological treatments of waste.

The first septic tank was patented in 1895 as a bacterial version of a cesspool – and these are still in use today, particularly in rural areas that are not connected to the municipal sewage system.

Filtration, then, became the focal point of sewage treatment. Edwin Frankland discovered that by filtering it through porous gravel, he could create nitrified effluent that was then able to be oxidized on a ‘contact bed’ (usually an inert substance that could offer maximum surface area for bacterial growth, like stones and slate. This then produced what was described as activated sludge, a well-known current treatment for wastewater.

Drinking Water

Water treatment wasn’t just reserved for making wastewater more useful. The first public water supply in the world used a sand filter, and this soon became the regulation in London and the UK, and later across the wider European continent.

The addition of other minerals and extras to the water supply was something of a contentious subject, but it was Moritz Traube who suggested in 1894 that chloride of lime (calcium hypochlorite) be added to the water to help it remain ‘germ-free’. This idea was embraced by most, not least in Kent, where Maidstone became the first town to have its entire water supply treated in 1897. This became a permanent fixture across the UK by 1905.

Another recent human addition to our drinking water is fluoride. Trendley Dean studied the effects of fluoride on tooth decay and found that regular consumption would help prevent it, so that is what the governments did. This first-ever comes from the US, where in 1945, Grand Rapids became the first city in the world to fluoridate all its water (soon followed by almost everyone else).

When your plumbing goes wrong, or you are upgrading your existing system or parts, it is interesting to know a bit more about the history of plumbing – you can count yourself lucky that you have a proper system and that your pipes are no longer made of lead!

Give us a call if you need some help with your plumbing – we might not be able to fix a Mesopotamian clay pipe system, but we definitely know our way around more modern options.

17 Ways to Save Money on Your Heating Bills

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:08:45 GMT

1. Adjust temperature down on milder days.

A Worcester gas boiler installed on a wall

Martin Lewis, the fabulous ‘Money Saving Expert’, shared the welcome news that there would be a 7% drop in the energy price cap in July on his website , but that isn’t necessarily the whole picture – especially as we are heading into the time of year where heating and even lighting is not as prevalent as it is in the dreary winter. It also doesn’t help when the best predictions suggest that just as we go into the autumn, there is likely to be another hike of at least 12%.

Perfect timing, then, for those of us who are being affected by the cost-of-living crisis.

If you want to find different ways to save money, then we have some tips that will make the most of your heating, making sure that it is running efficiently and working correctly.

The NHS advise that rooms in your home should be heated to a minimum of 18°C for healthy people, but most people will feel that about 20°C is more comfortable.

On milder days, you can afford to drop the temperature by a couple of degrees – you might not notice a difference in warmth, but it will make a difference in saving money on your bills.

For every degree that you raise the thermostat, it can add up to 10% on your bill, so think before you turn it on.

2. Make sure that there is space around your radiators.

Radiators work by convection; cold air is drawn in to the radiator and warmed before being raised into the air, allowing more cold air to be drawn in.

This process needs space to work, which means that if your radiators are blocked by things like clothes airers, furniture or even long curtains that will mean your heating will need to be on longer to reach the required temperature.

Avoid blocking radiators at all if you can help it, even radiator cabinets will interrupt the convection current and cost you more money eventually.

3. Check radiators are heating up equally.

When you are using your radiators, the whole of each radiator should be emitting heat – and every radiator should be heating up (unless you have TRVs installed – more about that later). If they aren’t, you will need to have your heating on for longer, and your boiler will have to work harder.

If you have cold areas in your radiators, that could indicate that they aren’t working effectively. Some common problems include:

Radiators need bleeding (cold at the top)
System needs a power flush (cold at the bottom)
Radiators not equally warm (system needs balancing)

Before you turn your heating on for the winter, make sure to bleed all the radiators – and while the upfront costs of things like balancing and a power flush might seem like an extra cost, the long-term money benefits make it worth considering.

4. Check your system pressure.

Pressure problems can affect your heating (and your bills), and it is something that you can monitor yourself. Most boiler systems work best at 1.0 – 2.0 bar pressure, so if there is a problem with low pressure, you can fix it yourself. A filling loop is usually the best way to do this – contact your user manual for more.

If the low pressure remains, you will need to call in a professional engineer.

5. Insulate your hot water cylinder and heating pipes.

Wasting heat and hot water is very inefficient – so anything you can do to prevent that is good. While some advice might be to turn the temperature down on your hot water cylinder, this is not a good idea unless you have support from a professional – hot water needs to stay at a certain temperature to avoid bacteria growth and things like Legionella.

One way that you can make a difference is to buy a jacket for the cylinder and lagging for the pipes. Water loses a lot of its heat in transit.

6. Check your boiler settings.

Boilers will have different settings that can be manipulated to give efficient and cheaper service – this will depend on the manufacturer and the ideal situation, of course, but there will be things that you can change.

If you have a combi boiler, then you can turn down the water temperature, even by a couple of degrees, you could save up to 8% on your heating bill.

7. Plug up draughts.

Preventing heat escaping from your home can save more than a third on your energy bills, and while insulating might be the best way to do this, little things that you can do to help make a difference.

Draught excluders along the bottom of doors, plugging keyholes, fitting letterboxes with draughtproof fixtures, and filling gaps around electrical outlets and pipes are relatively cheap fixes. You can take this even further by looking at threshold seals or using adhesive waterproof tape or thermoplastic rubber around doors and windows.

8. Wear extra clothing.

This might seem a bit obvious, but it is always cheaper to heat the person and not the room – so if you can layer up a bit when you are at home, you will feel warm without the added costs.

Of course, this is not always as simple as it sounds. It doesn’t necessarily work for the elderly, or those with small children or families with extra needs – so it might not be the answer for everyone.

9. Use electric heaters sparingly.

Electric heaters might seem like a good compromise, especially if you have a lower electricity tariff than gas, for example.

They work using convection, in a similar way to your radiators, and they can heat up small areas quickly. However, for larger rooms, or for more constant use, they are unlikely to be cost-effective.

Electric heaters are an excellent quick fix for a brief period of time or as a backup.

10. Keep curtains closed.

Radiators are often situated under windows, so keeping your curtains closed can be another way of insulating your room.

Choose curtains that are well lined, thermal if possible. Make sure that they don’t cover the radiator either so that the air can keep moving as much as possible.

11. Keep doors closed.

Like the windows, doors are another way that heat can escape. It might seem like a simple thing, but keeping all doors closed in the house will mean that each radiator is only heating the room it is in.

This means that the heating is not working too hard, saving you money.

12. Install TRVs.

Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs) are individual controllers that can be installed to each radiator, and they can control how much heat each radiator produces.

With TRVs, you can decide to turn the heating right down in rooms that are not used often, meaning that you are not spending the money heating areas where it doesn’t make a difference.

13. Invest in better heating controls.

The latest innovations for home include many smart controllers, as part of the Internet of Things. You probably have a voice-activated personal assistant like Alexa or Google Home already, and you can grow your control over your home by adding something like a smart thermostat.

These are readily available and reasonably cheap to install, and they can really be effective to the way you use your heating and electricity. Controlled using your home assistant or even your smartphone, you can change the temperature as well as turn on and off, even when you aren’t at home.

14. Get your boiler serviced (regularly).

You should already be getting your boiler serviced at least annually. This is not only to protect your warranty (and insurance, in some cases), but it also gives you the opportunity to spot potential issues before they grow and become even worse.

Annual boiler services might be an expense that you might consider doing without, but actually, they will save you money in the long term.

15. Spend money on insulation.

This begins the more expensive part of the list – but the long-term cost saving benefits would be worth it if you can stump up the initial costs.

First, it is insulation. Much of your heating will be lost through the roof and walls. Roof insulation or loft insulation is usually cheaper to install and can save around 30% on your energy bills.

Most houses built after 1930 are constructed with two layers of wall and a cavity between. Cavity wall insulation involves injecting thermal material into these gaps. This can cost a few thousand pounds, but again, will save around 30% of your energy bill.

16. Upgrade your windows.

Even if your home already has double glazing, you might be due an upgrade – and the newest window technology includes both uPVC and metal framed units, and even triple glazing.

If you cannot afford new windows, some experts suggest adding thermal film to the glass or even bubble wrap – there is limited data on whether this actually makes a difference, however. If you can spare the money, then new windows would be a better idea.

17. Check for grants and payment support.

Upgrading your central heating system, installing renewable energy generators, and other ways of saving money on your bills, come at a price – but that doesn’t mean you cannot get support.

The government provide a number of grants and other financial support, everything from the Boiler Upgrade Scheme to cold weather payments and the Winter Fuel Payment for those on low incomes.

As your local experts on everything from renewables to central heating systems, here at GMS we are ready to help you save money – especially if you are looking to get all this sorted before winter comes back.

5 Trends Revolutionising Plumbing

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:08:43 GMT

Smart Technology

Plumbing might be one of the oldest technologies in the world, but that doesn’t mean that innovation is not possible – in fact, there are several different ways that science, technology, and even ideology is improving our plumbing systems.

In this article we will look at what plumbers are going to be putting into our plumbing, everything from touchless faucets and smart showers through to ensuring that there are enough qualified plumbers available.

The Internet of Things (IoT) isn’t a new concept; in fact, connectivity (particularly in the home) is something that many people already have. These are the hubs like Alexa and Google Nest, for example, as well as connected fridges, smartphone-controlled washing machines, heating controls and obviously TVs.

For plumbing, many of the smart fixtures are about a combination of convenience, water saving, and even safety. Smart showers, for example, use less water and manage things like temperature, water pressure, and the length of time that you can spend. Touchless faucets, smart toilets, and smart baths are all available, too.

Smart technology in plumbing and throughout the home is the answer when customers are looking for more technology advanced homes and places to live where there is a real push for being more environmentally conscious.

Eco-Friendly Fixtures and Additions

As mentioned, part of the draw of these so-called smart tech fixtures is that they are actually better for the environment.

These include things like:

Pipes with built-in water leak detection technology.
Water recyclers to return greywater for non-potable purposes.
Low-flow faucets and reduced pressure in toilet flushing
Recycled materials (more about this later)
Solar water heaters – the market for these is predicted to expand by about 8% by 2035.

Integrating Plumbing Systems

While in the UK cooling systems are not as prevalent as they are in other places, more modern heating systems are more often being combined, especially with some of the more up-to-date modern and renewable systems.

Combining heating and cooling tends to be cheaper to install and cheaper to run, and just generally more efficient.

Integrating heat pumps and air conditioners, for example, makes better use of resources like water to transfer heating and cooling in a property.

The modern technology used in these combined systems includes things like improved heat exchangers, burners, and compressors, which, when combined with smart thermostats and humidity sensors, reduce energy consumption.

Finally, integrating these systems means that any repairs or servicing is much simpler and streamlined – with fewer service personnel involved and less loss of resources.

Materials and Techniques

The proliferation of 3D printing – and we are barely scratching the surface of what this technology can do – has made a real difference in the affordability of plumbing parts and fixtures. These can now be produced much faster and at a fraction of the cost, with more flexibility around the design. Even the most intricate designs can be brought to life without too much waste.

Recycled materials are as much about aesthetics as they are about being more environmentally aware. The escalating focus on sustainability has seen plastic pipes and fittings that have been created from recovered and recycled materials. Obviously, this reduces waste and promotes recycling – but there is also a drive to include other reclaimed materials like metal and glass.

Plumbing is all about modernity these days

(Photo by Max Vakhtbovycn: https://www.pexels.com/photo/lavatory-on-marbled-surface-8135411/)

Finally, plumbers are working on trenchless pipe repair – the idea that there are less invasive ways to make repairs that are actually more effective. Using techniques like pipe lining, pipe bursting, and pipe relining, there is no need for excavation which saves time, labour, and inconvenience.

The Skills Gap

This is not necessarily a positive trend in plumbing, but there has been a marked issue with attracting and retaining skilled workers. The current workforce is aging, and the younger generation seem to be lacking in interest in becoming a plumber.

What this means is that there is a real need to strategise – think of the best ways to not only attract new plumbers, but also ensure that they receive the right training to bridge the widening skills gap. These include things like apprenticeships and training programs that combine hands-on learning with working towards a recognised qualification – this will give a steady pipeline of skilled professionals.

The other part of this solution should be focusing on diversity, bringing underrepresented people into the workforce by making it more accessible to women and minorities. This widens the pool of potential plumbers and makes it easier to address the challenges of a widening skills gap.

Heating Health Check – Your Key to Confidence in Your Heating System from the Team at GMS

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:08:39 GMT

What Does the Heating Health Check Include?

Heat Source

Oil, air source heat pumps, gas, LPG, and ground source heat pumps may produce heat from different sources, but the end product should be the same – they should be creating sufficient heat to warm your home effectively.

Our well-trained, knowledgeable and professional engineers are specialists in different heat sources, and they bring that knowledge with them when they perform a health check. While this does not cover all the checks done as part of a service, it will ensure that the heat source is working, that it is switching on and off, and that the settings for the system are correct.

Pumps

A common issue that heating systems might face is that the motor for the pump may not be working efficiently. It might not be able to get to speed, it might not be able to maintain speed, and in some cases, it might not be able to start at all.

This check is designed to get the motor running smoothly and pick up on any problems that may cause an issue in the future.

Radiators and Valves

Your radiators have a huge part to play in heating your home.

This check is designed to make sure each radiator is working properly and that they are properly balanced throughout the property. We will also check that Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs) are in place and can be used to adjust the heat coming from the radiators so that you can prioritise heating in rooms you use the most.

Controls and Zone Values

Some properties rely on wall thermostats to control their heating, while others might have wireless or remote control options. Either way, this check will make sure the controllers are communicating with the system properly. This is also an opportunity for you to get to know your system a bit better.

We will also check the different heating zones in the property to make sure that each control and thermostat is working properly with the areas needed. This will include setting temperatures and timings if you need help with this.

Thermal Imaging

We use the latest thermal imaging cameras to check your system, from the boiler through the vessels and all the way through the radiators and pipes. This will show us where the heat is going and identify any cold spots which will be affecting the performance of your heating.

For example, if we find cold areas at the top of your radiators, then there is likely to be air in the system. Cold spots at the bottom might signify sludge is gathering.

Passive Vessel

The expansion vessel is pressurised, so this check on the passive vessel ensures that it is at the right pressure when not in use, and also when the heat demand is there.

Pressure drops often cause boilers to stop working, and is one of the most regular boiler-related breakdowns we have to fix. Spotting pressure issues early is definitely useful, and we can show you how to deal with an error code relating to a pressure drop in the future.

Water Quality

While the water that is in your heating system is not going to be clean enough to drink, we want to avoid any nasties being present such as the Legionella bacteria as well as iron oxide and other particles.

Iron oxide and rust can travel through the system and this can cause a buildup of sludge in the pipes and in the radiator panels – we can see the result of this with the thermal cameras when it has become a problem.

A water sample will be taken from the system to test for the presence of anything like this, and any abnormal results can be dealt with immediately.

The Bottom Line

Once your Heating Health Check is complete, you will receive a comprehensive report detailing the inspection, along with any recommendations that have been made. This might include a recommendation to upgrade your radiator valves for the more effective and efficient TRVs mentioned above, for example.

While we all know the importance of an annual service for your boiler – whether you are on mains gas, LPG, oil or a heat pump – there are many different parts of your heating system that should be checked for optimum performance.

The Heating Health Check is an inclusive inspection that takes in all parts of your heating system, a bespoke package that uses the latest technology to check the efficiency of the heating and hot water.

Common Boiler Problems – and How to Fix Them

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:08:37 GMT

My Boiler is Not Firing Up! Boiler Problems!

Boiler problems. Picture the scene… it is a lovely late autumn afternoon, and the temperature is just starting to drop enough that the heating needs to come on – but it isn’t.

Your radiators aren’t heating up, you don’t appear to have any hot water, and of course it’s the weekend so you know that getting an engineer out to look isn’t going to be the easiest option.

Now, before you get into panic mode, there are a few problems that your boiler might present you with that you can deal with yourself – but if you are in any doubt or unsure, then you can always call the experts at GMS for help and advice.

In this article, we will give you an idea of what could be causing the most common boiler problem. In almost all cases, the boiler will not work because it cannot fire up and create the combustion needed to heat the system. If your boiler is not firing, here are several problems that might be causing it, and an idea of what you can do for yourself to get it going again.

Let’s establish some of the main reasons that your boiler might not be starting properly. These are simple boiler problems that are regularly reported:

1. Frozen Condensate Pipe

If the temperature outside has been particularly low, and you notice gurgling sounds from the boiler when you try to use it, the condensate pipe outside might have frozen. Obviously, this is a boiler problem that will only occur in the wintertime, but you can fix it yourself relatively simply.

All you need to do is identify where the pipe is, and gently thaw it. It’s best to use hot (not boiling water) applied directly to the pipe, followed by some sort of hot compress – a hot water bottle works really well.

2. Thermostat Issues

If your boiler problems are that it seems to come on erratically or doesn’t come on when you are expecting it to, you might have an issue with the thermostat. This might be obvious if there is an error message or even a blank screen on your thermostat panel.

The first thing you should check is if the thermostat batteries need to be replaced. If this doesn’t solve the problem, then check to ensure that the timer settings don’t need adjusting – they can often go awry if there has been a power cut, for example.

Lastly, don’t forget to check the temperature setting. If the thermostat is assessing that the room is too warm, then the heating might not come on. For most people, a room temperature of between 18 and 21 degrees is perfect.

3. Boiler Lock Out

If the boiler won't fire and you notice the lock-out light (usually red) on your boiler keeps coming on, or there is an error code on your boiler control panel, then you might need to perform a reset.

Your boiler may just need a simple reset. There is usually a button for this on the panel, but you should refer to the handbook if you are unsure. Failing this, you can always switch it off and back on again.

Remember, as with many other boiler issues, if this is something that keeps happening, it might be a symptom of other (larger) problems, so contact a professional ( like GMS ) if it reoccurs often.

4. Low Pressure

If it feels like the radiators furthest from the boiler seem to be taking a long time to warm up, or the system seems to be making unusual banging noises, then you might have a low pressure problem.

There should be some sort of dial or meter that shows you the current pressure, and if that is reading below 1.0 bar then you need to top it up. Refer to your handbook to find out where your filling loop is, and fill until the pressure reaches 1.0 to 1.5 bar (this is usually the sweet spot for most boiler systems).

Once you have repressurized the system, you might need to reset the boiler for it to start working again.

5. Pilot Light has Gone Out

If you have an older boiler, you might be able to see the pilot light through a little window in the boiler itself – and if this goes out, the combustion process cannot happen.

The boiler will have instructions on how to relight the pilot light, but before you follow them check to make sure that there are no sooty marks on or around the boiler. If you notice any, don’t try to reignite the pilot light – instead, call the emergency gas line on 0800 111 999.

When to Call the Experts

One-off problems like the ones listed above are relatively simple to sort out and can usually be avoided if you keep up with annual boiler services. However, if any of the above issues become more frequent, you should call on a professional for help.

Below are some other signs that your boiler needs a little more TLC from a Gas Safe engineer :

Unusual Noises: boiler systems should be relatively quiet – if you hear new noises like whistling, banging, or gurgling, this might be a sign that something is not right.
Poor performance: if radiators are not heating fully, or some radiators are not heating at all.
Leaking or dripping: water pressure is important, and drips can cause long-term damage to your home – not to mention the danger from carbon monoxide leaks.
Increased energy bills
Age: older boilers will need more help to remain efficient

The best way to prevent boiler problems is to ensure that you keep up with a regular service schedule; we recommend at least annually for gas boilers. You can contact us today to arrange an annual service or speak to us about any problems that you might have with your boiler and central heating system.

What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)?

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:08:35 GMT

Who is Eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?

Available in England and Wales, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme is a government grant that can be paid to homeowners and business owners who want to upgrade their existing fossil fuel boiler to one that is considered to be more environmentally friendly.

Up to £7,500 is available for each installation of either a ground source heat pump, an air source heat pump, or a biomass boiler. There are some eligibility criteria that you must meet to be considered for the grant, but if successful, this could offset at least some of the cost of the installation.

This grant has been active for the last two years, and it represents the effort that the government are putting in to encourage homeowners (and small business owners) to make the change to a more environmentally friendly source of heating. This aim originally came from the Climate Change Act 2008, where the government pledged to reduce the greenhouse gases produced by the UK by at least 80% (compared to 1990 levels) by 2050.

Heating and other domestic energy use are responsible for almost 40% of the total emissions in the UK, according to data from the ONS in 2021, and this is something that definitely needs to change. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme, therefore, is designed to make upgrading and installing more cost-effective in the long run for normal, eligible households.

If you are interested in upgrading your central heating and hot water systems to something that is intended to not only reduce your carbon footprint but also save money on your energy bills, then you can speak to the Renewables team at GMS, who would be happy to discuss your options.

The BUS is available for homeowners and small business owners who match the following criteria:

Own the property where the upgrade is to take place.
Hold a valid EPC for the property.
The property has an installation capacity of up to 45kWTh.

Properties that are currently being built are not eligible, but completed new build properties are. The BUS grant cannot be used to replace existing low-carbon systems.

You can only access the BUS by using a Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) accredited installer.

How does the Boiler Upgrade Scheme Work?

If you are considering upgrading your system, then the first thing you need to do is discuss your options with an expert. Our Renewables team is a great place to start – we can visit your property and see which of the three options would be best for you.

For example, if you live in a large, detached property with acres of land, then you might want to consider a ground source heat pump. If you have a smaller rural property that is not on the gas grid, then a biomass boiler might be best. Without expert guidance, you might not understand all the options available to you.

Once you have made your decision, your installation team will agree on a quote for completing the work. This might include certain upgrades to your property, including improving the insulation or even installing underfloor heating to improve efficiency.

If you are happy with the quote, the MCS-certified installation team will apply for the grant on your behalf. The value will be taken off the final invoice amount.

The details above relate to the funding that is available for properties in England and Wales; other schemes are available in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

How much is available?

The grant amounts are below:

Ground Source and Air Source Heat Pumps – £7,500
Biomass Boilers – £5,000.

To find out more about the BUS and the options for reducing your carbon footprint while improving the efficiency of your heating system, contact us today.

What is an Air Source Heat Pump?

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:08:34 GMT

How Does an Air Source Heat Pump Work?

If you are looking for a renewable way to heat your home and produce hot water, you might want to consider installing an air source heat pump. In some cases, these can completely replace your existing central heating system on a like-for-like basis, or they can form part of a wider remodelling or retrofitting process.

They are also a popular consideration for new-build properties, especially as the government and homeowners are becoming more conscious about reducing carbon emissions and the impact of heating on the environment.

Essentially, an air source heat pump transfers heat from the air outside the property to the water in a central heating system. This is a method of providing heating and hot water that does not rely on burning fossil fuels, and when powered by renewable electricity, it can reduce your carbon footprint as well as your energy bills.

The heat pump unit resembles an air conditioning unit and is positioned on the outside of the property. This collects warmth from the air outside and heats up a liquid refrigerant, which is further heated through compression using electricity. This liquid is passed through radiators and underfloor heating systems to release the heat stored, and the excess is sent to be stored in a hot water cylinder to provide hot water for taps, showers, and baths.

While the external unit needs a little bit of space around it for air to properly circulate, it can be placed around the home in the most appropriate position. You can have a monobloc system, which is the typical setup that you might recognize, where the unit outside resembles an air conditioning unit; this sends hot water to the property, and you just need to add a hot water cylinder.

Some homeowners might choose a split system, which works best if there is some distance between the external unit and the property. With this system, you will also need an internal heat exchanger as well as a hot water cylinder.

Are Air Source Heat Pumps better than Ground Source Heat Pumps?

While both air source and ground source heat pumps are broadly similar in the way they heat your home (the only difference is where the heat comes from in the first place), for most people, air source heat pumps are the most appropriate renewable energy solution.

Ground source heat pumps are very costly to install, and they need a lot of space to work effectively. For a 3–4-bedroom house, you will need two trenches at least 30-40m long, which is just not feasible for most people.

However, the external (and even internal) units used in an air source heat pump installation are considerably smaller. They are also much less disruptive to install; no digging required, and you do not need to worry about allowing access for digging machinery.

The other difference is the cost of the installation. Most air source heat pump setups cost about £14,000 to complete – and you might be eligible for a £7,500 grant towards the cost of installation thanks to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) from the government.

The reason that people do still choose the ground source heat pump, however, is that it is more reliable in producing consistent amounts of heat without any of the fluctuations that you can get with an air source heat pump, especially in the winter. Remember, however, that the air source heat pump is designed to work with the great British weather.

How much does it cost to install an Air Source Heat Pump?

This cost will be offset by the savings you might make on your energy bills, although the exact figures will depend on a number of factors, including:

How well insulated your home is
Whether you are sending the heated fluid to radiators or underfloor heating systems

All things considered, for many people, installing an air source heat pump is a good replacement for outdated gas boilers and is a more economical option than a ground source heat pump. If you are still unsure or you would like to discuss your options, then don’t hesitate to get in touch with our Renewables team on 01280 822111 or by email at info@greenmechanical.co.uk .

What is Underfloor Heating?

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:08:29 GMT

When Should You Install Underfloor Heating?

Underfloor heating is a high-spec feature becoming increasingly popular, especially in new build homes where more thought is going in to making more sustainable energy choices.

Installation of an underfloor heating system is something that can cause considerable upheaval, especially if the floor needs to be raised – but the cost in time and money is usually considered to be worth it for the more efficient heating, the improved aesthetic, and reduced household energy bills.

There are two types of underfloor heating that you can have installed. Electric underfloor heating is usually cheaper and easier to fit, but might cost more to run depending on your electricity tariff. Underfloor water heating is usually more disruptive and expensive to fit, but it is considered to be more efficient and cheaper to run every day.

According to Which ? 53% of people choose to install underfloor heating in their bathrooms, while 50% of people prefer to install it in the kitchen. Underfloor heating is suitable for use in any room where you want to either provide a warm place for your feet or even to replace your radiators completely without compromising on warmth and comfort.

If you are undecided about which type of underfloor heating will be best for your home, the best thing you can do is talk to an expert, like our team at GMS. We will talk through what would work most effectively in your space, and what this would entail in terms of cost and time. We will look at:

Size and shape of the area
Does the existing floor need removing completely?
Is it a retrofitting or refurbishment project, or a new build under construction?
What central heating system is it connecting to? Gas or heat pumps for a wet system (water underfloor heating) or to the mains for an electrical system?

If you are a competent DIY enthusiast, you might even be able to fit your own underfloor heating – retailers sell mats with the wires attached off the shelf, which are relatively simple. However, these will still need to be connected to the mains by a qualified electrician.

Water-based systems definitely need to be installed by a professional.

Whether you are choosing an electric or water-based system, you will need to lift the existing flooring, and this means that it is likely to cause quite a bit of upheaval. We would always recommend that you try to tie in this sort of work with other refurbishments to try and minimize disruption to your everyday life. Of course, if you want the system to be installed in a new build property that is currently under construction or in a home that is not currently lived in.

Remember that, depending on the work that needs to be done, the process of retrofitting underfloor heating can include:

Removal of the existing floor
Floor height might need to be raised.
Door height might need to be reduced.
If the floor height change is drastic enough, you might have to install a half-step or a step in between rooms

Can Underfloor Heating Replace Radiators?

For most people, the addition of underfloor heating in rooms like bathrooms and kitchens is to remove the need for radiators – and this can work, even in larger spaces like living rooms.

You might want to remove radiators from the room to make more space or just to achieve a cleaner finish, but you do not want to run the risk of making yourself uncomfortably cold.

To make this work, you should ensure that the underfloor heating system offers at least 200W of power per square metre, and it covers about 80-90% of the total floor area.

You will also need to ensure that there are insulation boards installed underneath the heating system to prevent heat loss, and that whatever floor covering you are using on top has relatively low thermal resistance so that the heat can pass through easier.

Another consideration is insulation. More modern homes can have cavity wall insulation as well as loft insulation, and your installation team might recommend that you upgrade your insulation before putting the heating system in.

Even with all this, you might want to consider adding extra heat sources in the room – such as a heated towel rail or plinth heaters, just for the added reassurance of heat when you need it.

Remember that underfloor heating takes much longer to come to temperature, and it does not run as hot as a radiator-based system would – especially if it is running off a heat pump rather than a gas boiler, for example.

Alternatives to Underfloor Heating

There are some circumstances and situations where underfloor heating might not be the most appropriate solution, and the team at GMS will be happy to discuss alternatives or things to do to improve. These might include:

Less powerful or smaller heating system
Number of external walls to a room
The weather outside gets particularly cold.
Solid walls (usually found on much older buildings) with no insulation.
Single-glazed windows.

Speak to us to find out whether underfloor heating is the best option for you and your home.

Water Underfloor Heating – The Basics

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:08:28 GMT

What is Water Underfloor Heating?

Have you considered water underfloor heating? Underfloor heating is a relatively new way to heat parts of your home, and many people are retrofitting underfloor heating in their kitchens and bathrooms as part of a refurbishment project or even installing it as standard in their new build properties.

There are two main types of underfloor heating – water underfloor heating (or wet), and electric. The type of underfloor heating that you will choose for your home depends on many factors, including your central heating, the size and shape of the room, and whether you are expecting it to completely replace radiators. If you are unsure, then the experienced team at GMS will be able to help you make the right decision.

The water underfloor heating system consists of a series of pipes which run underneath the floor. These pipes carry hot water from the boiler, heating both the floor and the space above.

Water underfloor heating works with virtually all existing central heating systems, and it performs particularly well with solar water heating, ground source heat pumps, and air source heat pumps – underfloor heating runs at a much lower temperature than radiators, which is ideal for renewable energy. .

How is water underfloor heating installed?

Water underfloor heating systems can be installed in almost any room, but they are most likely to be found in the kitchen, bathroom, or living room. Firstly, the pipes are laid and fixed with fixing clips, and then they are connected to a manifold and then to a heat source. The manifold consists of two rows of taps and becomes bigger and more complex as the size of the room it is in increases.

Once it is all connected, the installation team will test it to ensure that it is working as it is meant to. An insulating screed is then poured around the pipes, working to not only hold them in place but also provide some insulation to increase efficiency. This screed is also essential to level out the floor.

It is worth mentioning that water underfloor heating is bulkier than the electric equivalent, and this means that once completed, the floor level might have to be raised. This can, in turn, lead to more adjustments being made, such as steps into rooms and changing the height of doors.

Is water underfloor heating expensive to install and run?

In essence, the main difference between the two comes down to expense and efficiency. Electric systems tend to be cheaper to install, but they can be less powerful and may be more expensive to run over the long term.

Water systems are more costly to install and are more labour-intensive, but they do tend to be cheaper to run in the long term and work particularly well with renewable energy sources like air and ground source heat pumps.

Although it is hard to quantify with any certainty because every home is different, water underfloor heating is considered to be more cost-effective than electric, and both are considered to be better options than traditional radiators.

If you wanted to replace your existing central heating system and all the radiators with a cleaner-looking underfloor heating system, then you need to take the advice of a professional.

The underfloor heating team at GMS will be able to advise you if the system will be suitable as a complete replacement or whether you need to make any adjustments, such as improving insulation.

Call us today to find out more about whether underfloor heating is right for you.

Electric Underfloor Heating – The Basics

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:08:27 GMT

What is Electric Underfloor Heating?

Underfloor heating is a relatively new way to provide heat to your home, and whether you are completing a refurb or directing a self-build, you might want to consider installing underfloor heating to help keep your toes warm or even completely replace your radiators.

Usually, underfloor heating is used in rooms like the bathroom and the kitchen, but it works in living rooms, hallways, and even bedrooms. There are two main types; electric and water – and if you are deciding which is best for you, then our team can help you make the choice based on your personal circumstances.

Electric underfloor heating consists of a series of electrical wires that are installed beneath the flooring of a room.

The wires are connected to the mains electricity and include a sensor to help regulate temperature as well as a thermostat so you can control when they are turned on and off.

Electric underfloor heating is usually installed on a layer of floor insulation, which prevents heat from leaking underneath. Electric underfloor heating can be installed anywhere with a mains electrical supply and tends to be put either inside a layer of screed or in suspended timber, with a floor covering above.

While you can buy off-the-shelf electric underfloor heating kits, we would always recommend that you speak to a qualified professional to install your system – they will not only be able to provide advice on how to complete the project in the most cost effective way, they will also be able to help you plan the layout, wire up the system, and complete the job with your preferred flooring.

A qualified electrician is also required to wire the new electric underfloor heating system into the mains so it is safe and ready for you to use. This is not something you should attempt for yourself – it is a health and safety issue, firstly, but faulty wiring could cause more expense in the long run.

How is it installed?

Is it expensive to install and run?

One of the main differences between electric underfloor heating and water-based systems is the expense and the difficulty of installation.

Water underfloor heating tends to involve more upheaval and expense – the space needed to lay the heating can mean that floors need to be raised, doors need to be shorter, and you may even have to install a step.

Electric underfloor heating is much more straightforward to install, which makes it considerably cheaper in the first instance. It is also less likely to cause as many problems – although you will need to lift the floor to get it in, it’s smaller and takes up less room.

In terms of running costs, electric underfloor heating is known for being more costly as it runs directly from the electric supply. However, you can mitigate this cost through the use of renewable energies like solar power, which makes it a much greener way to heat your home.

What else do I need to know about electric underfloor heating?

Electric underfloor heating needs to be controlled via a thermostat. These are usually wall-mounted, and one thermostat is needed for each room that has underfloor heating, which means that you can control them separately.

Underfloor heating usually works well with manual, programmable, and even smart thermostats, which means you can set the on/off times and adjust the temperature from your smartphone.

It is important to note that underfloor heating tends to run at a lower temperature than traditional radiators, and it will take a bit longer to heat up.

For a professional opinion as to whether your home would be suitable for electric underfloor heating, contact our professional team today .

10 Steps to Plan the Perfect Bathroom

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:08:23 GMT

1. Assess Perfect Bathroom Needs

Whether you are looking to refresh your bathroom, you’ve just bought a new home, or you are completely remodelling your house, getting the opportunity to design your perfect bathroom can be a dream come true.

Bathrooms are one of those necessities that we might not really think about, but the difference a well-planned space can make on the way you view your home might surprise you.

However, getting the project off the ground means really getting grips with the details – and in this list, we will hit on some of the most important considerations you should be making before you get started.

Not all bathrooms are the same. The functions that your perfect bathroom needs to provide will go a long way in the planning – an ensuite bathroom for the master bedroom will be very different in layout and contents than the family bathroom, for example.

Aside from the obvious basics like a toilet and washbasin, what else does your bathroom need to provide? A walk-in shower? A shower over the bath? A complete spa experience including a rain shower, marble-covered surfaces and a wet room finish?

Knowing exactly what you want your bathroom to do for you will make the rest of the planning much easier.

2. Design Inspiration

There are plenty of places where you can get design inspiration, both online and in person.

Hardware and home improvement stores will still carry bathroom fixtures and fittings, and specialist bathroom shops will even have full displays that you can check out, to see the designs in person and get a feel for how they will look in your home.

Another option is to look for inspiration online . You don’t have to search very far to see some outstanding examples of completed perfect bathrooms, and these should provide a good starting point for establishing your own ideas.

Look at things like colour schemes, tile preferences, and even some of the finishing touches like handles, art, and ornaments, too.

3. Measure

This is an important thing to consider when you are planning – measurements. While we would all love a spa bathroom with a slipper or a roll top bath, not many homes in the UK will have the floor space for such extravagance, especially when you consider that the average footprint of a British bathroom is the same size as a king-sized bed.

Measuring accurately and producing scale models that show where all the plumbing and pipes are connected, will help you to visualize what the finished room could look like – and you’ll be able to fully understand the space, too.

4. Ask the Experts

This is where GMS comes into the equation. Our full-service bespoke bathroom packages help you every step of the way in your quest for a new perfect bathroom, starting with planning and design and working all the way through to completion.

Our bathroom installation team use the latest in CAD technology to bring your design and planning ideas to life, and this makes it so much easier for you to make the right decisions on everything from the depth of the bath to the right design on your tiles.

Choosing the right experts can be difficult, but at GMS, we provide the right people at the right time to help you get the job done perfectly, fast.

5. Be Realistic

Related to the point about measurements, it is important that you set your expectations according to not only the space you have available, but also to your budget. For most people, this will mean giving your bathroom a refresh rather than completely rearranging it. Relocating waste pipes and other plumbing issues can make the costs (and time taken) on your project soar, so it is worth being realistic about what you can achieve with the time and money that you have available.

Reputable bathroom installation teams will ensure that you are aware of the costs before work starts, when possible, so you can feel comfortable.

6. Storage

This is something that older bathrooms might lack, and yet the recent trend for minimalism in bathrooms often create more storage problems than they solved. Almost everyone will want to keep their perfect bathroom surfaces clutter free, and that means having plenty of space to store not only toiletries, but also things like spare toilet rolls and extra towels.

This might mean some sort of unit with drawers, or it might mean a cupboard surrounding the base of your toilet.

Some people, particularly those who are touching up their ensuite, might want to consider creating recessed shelves within the wall of the shower. This makes for a discreet yet accessible storage location for shampoo and shower gel.

7. Lighting

There are a few ways you can choose to light your bathroom, but it is probably a good idea to consider where it will be situated and who will be using it before you decide.

In most cases, using a low light (or at least one less bright than a typical overhead light) would be beneficial; this is less likely to cause disturbance for late-night visits to the bathroom and might even prevent you from waking up completely.

You will probably want to have the option of a brighter light in the room when it is needed, though, for example, for doing makeup or completing your nightly facecare routine. This can be achieved by a dimmer switch or by installing lights around the mirror or some other focused light.

8. Ventilation

Bathrooms tend to be wet places, and they tend to remain wet for lengthy periods. When this means for you is that they can make damp an issue, especially on walls that are connecting to other rooms, like your bedroom, for example.

The best way to prevent damp problems from occurring is to ensure proper ventilation. If you are lucky this will include a big window, but you will also need to install some type of fan or similar ventilation system for the best results.

Just remember, you don’t want to have your fan switch tied into your light switch so you can decide when to turn it on.

9. Theme, Decoration, and Tiling

This is the part where you get to choose the overall look of the perfect bathroom you are creating, and for most people this is the part that is the most fun.

Trends for bathrooms change almost as often as in clothing fashion, but you are probably not going to be able to remodel your bathroom every time there is a new hot look – so go for something a little more classic if you are focused on longevity.

Tiles are an excellent choice, especially around baths, showers, and sinks. However, you might want to consider the option of making your room look bigger by using tiles on the floor and the walls – and even on the ceiling.

While highly decorated tiles might be in right now, they will likely make the bathroom feel small and constricted and could get dated quickly.

Above all, make sure that the design you choose is one that you love and that works with your style.

10. Organise the Work

When you are completing a perfect bathroom overhaul, there are several different tradespeople that you need to deal with – and when you choose GMS, all that effort is taken out of your hands.

We arrange everything, from the initial consultation until the job is complete. We will ensure that your design ideas are brought to life using our innovative CAD systems, and then arrange for all the different tradespeople to complete every stage of the remodel, from plumbers to bathroom fitters and even removing all the waste.

Using GMS means that not only will you save time and effort, but you will also be able to take advantage of knowing exactly who is in your home, how long the project will take, and what the next steps are – and who doesn’t want the bathroom of their dreams without all the hassle?

If you are ready to build your perfect bathroom, then contact the Bathrooms team today and let our bespoke bathroom design and installation team make your dreams a reality.

What is a Power Flush and Should I Get One?

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:08:21 GMT

What to expect from a power flush?

A power flush is the process used to remove build-up of sludge and debris in your central heating system. During a flush, water is sent through the pipes and radiators under high pressure to dislodge the residue and improve the efficiency of the system, as well as increasing the lifespan of your central heating.

Power flushing should be completed on a semi-regular schedule and as part of your maintenance; most experts recommend that you have a power flush performed every five to ten years. This, alongside your annual boiler service and completing any repairs in a timely manner will help ensure that your central heating system operates efficiently and is less likely to develop faults.

A professional engineer should complete your power flush. Our team are experts in ensuring that your boiler is working efficiently and that your home remains cosy, all while keeping costs at a minimum.

When the engineer turns up to complete your power flush, they will follow the below procedure.

Set up of equipment. The engineer will use a ‘power station’ that comprises a number of hoses and a powerful unit that pushes water through the system at a high velocity, forcing the debris and sludge out.
The first hour and a half or so will be when the engineer completes the initial flush, using water and going in both directions.
Following this, they will then focus on any areas that are more difficult, especially the radiators that might be completely blocked.
If there are particularly heavy deposits, the engineer might use an ‘agitator’. This is a tough pad attached to a hammer action drill.
Once the engineer is satisfied that the flush has been successful, they will add a chemical neutralizer that will be flushed through, before testing the pH of the water. This is to ensure that it is not too acidic, as this can cause corrosion.
The final stage is the introduction of an inhibitor chemical, which is specifically chosen to prevent corrosion and help reduce sludgy build-up in the future.

Depending on the size of the property, the number of radiators, and the initial condition of the system, this process can take anything from a few hours to a full day.

Signs you might need a power flush.

While it is recommended to get a power flush every five years or so, you may notice some signs that you should organize one sooner. These include:

Cold strips at the bottom of the radiators, or only a small amount of heat at the top.
Black water in the system – you might notice this if you remove a radiator or need to get any repairs completed. This can also be seen if you are bleeding your radiators.
The radiators are struggling to heat or remain cold even though the pipes are hot.
The system seems to be working less efficiently.
Overflowing attic header tank.

It is also a good idea to get a flush done if you are getting a new boiler but keeping the existing radiators and pipework. Most installation teams will compete a ‘dynamic flush’ at the time of fitting, using just pressured mains water, but your engineer might suggest a power flush to get it as clean as possible.

When a power flush might not be the answer.

Although power flushing is an effective way to improve efficiency and make sure that your system is functioning as well as it can, it is not always the best idea.

For example, if you have anything that is broken in your system, like valves, then the pressure used in the power flush could cause more issues. It can also cause leaks by putting too much pressure on weak areas.

If you are struggling with low pressure errors or the boiler is failing to fire up , this could mean a simple repressuring job – or it could indicate a leak somewhere.

The other thing to consider is the age of the central heating system. A power flush is not going to give a new lease of life to older systems; it will be much more cost effective in the long run to replace the boiler, pipework, and radiators, even if you do it in stages.

Get the experts in to complete your power flush.

While there are some things that you can do yourself to help maintain the efficiency of your central heating system, a power flush needs to be completed by a Gas Safe engineer – and the team at GMS are experts.

Speak to us today to schedule both your annual service and your power flush, and let us help you keep warm and cosy this winter without breaking the bank.

When Should You Get Your Boiler Serviced?

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:08:19 GMT

Gas boiler service

If you have had a new boiler installed, you’ve just bought a new property, or you know you haven’t had your boiler looked at for a little while, then you might be thinking about arranging a service schedule.

It is recommended that you have your gas boiler serviced at least annually. This will help keep you and your family safe and warm, as well as save you money on your bills.

Annual boiler services might seem like yet another expense , which can be difficult to swallow as prices rise everywhere, but the smaller short-term cost is much outweighed by the risks of not getting a service.

Boiler servicing is the way to ensure that not only is your boiler working properly and efficiently, but that it is safe for you and your family. A ccording to the ONS , between 2010-2020 more than 100 people died each year because of accidental carbon monoxide poisoning in England and Wales .

Gas boilers are designed to be hardwearing, but realistically, they only have a lifespan of up to 10-15 years – and they are likely to begin to deteriorate in terms of performance before that.

Our Gas Safe-registered engineers are available to complete your boiler service, and you can contact us to create a new scheduled slot annually. We suggest you choose a service period in the summer if you can, as this is generally where the GMS Gas Safe engineers are more likely to have availability. A summertime service also means that you can go into the winter months confident that your boiler is working at its best.

If you are a homeowner, then you are likely to find that not only is an annual gas boiler service a part of the warranty service for the boiler, but it is also a requirement of your insurance, so it is not worth the risk.

If you are renting your property, annual gas safety checks are a legal requirement, and your landlord has to complete them. This check also includes boilers, hobs, fireplaces and flues that are part of the property when you started to rent, or have been added later.

Gas boiler services are just one of the many services we can provide at GMS , so get in contact with the team to find out more.

Oil boiler service

Much like gas boilers, oil boilers should be serviced at least annually. This includes a manual inspection of the system by an OFTEC-registered engineer, who can use their knowledge and experience to check for early signs of problems and remediate any wear and tear.

This includes checking for problems such as:

Water ingress
Debris
Impurities
Blockages
Soot deposits

Our engineers are OFTEC-registered, which means that we are qualified to work with oil-fired central heating systems – so call us today to arrange your service.

What is the Gas Safe Register and Why Does it Matter?

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:08:18 GMT

What Does the Gas Safe Register Do?

If you have gas central heating or you cook with gas, you need to get your boiler and appliances installed and serviced by an engineer who is Gas Safe registered . Not only is this essential for insurance and warranties, but it is also the best way to ensure that you and your family are safe. It is also a legal requirement that all engineers who work with gas are on the Gas Safe register.

The Gas Safe register is the official registration body covering the UK, the Isle of Man, and Guernsey, and it replaced CORGI as the official governing body in 2009-2010.

The stated purpose of the Gas Safe Register is to “protect the public from unsafe gas work.” In practice, this includes:

Ensuring the provided list of engineers deemed qualified and competent is kept up to date.
Inspecting the work completed by Gas Safe engineers to ensure it meets rigorous standards.
Investigating reports received about illegal gas works.
Creating public awareness campaigns around safe installations, servicing, and repairs to improve safety.

What Does an Engineer Have to do to Become Gas Safe Registered?

Engineers who wish to work with gas must become registered with the Gas Safe register. This is a legal requirement.

Not only do prospective engineers have to have completed a relevant qualification (Gas Safe only accepts ACS, NVQ, or SVQ qualifications). They also need to provide evidence of competence to be considered. All qualifications and proof of competence must be valid and current and have come about through study via a recognized route of training and assessment.

Gas Safe engineers need to renew their registration once a year and update their qualifications once every five years. All gas engineers must be aligned with a registered Gas Safe business.

Once an engineer is qualified and has demonstrated their competence, they can apply to become Gas Safe registered. This costs £269 before VAT. If accepted, the engineer must complete a three-month probationary period, where records and examples of work completed must be kept to be assessed during inspections.

Gas Safe engineers will only be able to move out of probation once the inspections have been completed and they have demonstrated competence.

Should You Choose a Gas Safe Engineer?

Any type of work that involves gas must be completed by a Gas Safe registered engineer. This is your responsibility to source, and you should be able to see the licence of the engineer before they get started on the project for you. You can also check the website of the company you have chosen; there will be a very obvious yellow triangle on display to show they are registered. You can even check yourself on the Gas Safe register website.

Installation, service, and repair work on gas systems can all be conducted by the Gas Safe engineers at GMS. By choosing us, not only will you know that the work will be carried out to the highest standards, but they will also be as safe as possible. Contact the team today to discuss your gas boiler system.

Another great Air Source Heat Pump Install Completed!

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:08:14 GMT

Finishing off the week with another Air-Source heat pump installation at a new local farm shop, great to see both Domestic and Commercial properties going Green! Have a great weekend everyone!

Air Source Heat Pump Install Completed

If you have any question, please feel free to contact us.