Halo Heating St. Chads Church, UK

This case study outlines how Herschel Halo heaters were selected as the new heating solution for St. Chad’s Church in Bradford. Previously, the church relied on gas and electric heating at a high cost, with running expenses in January 2021 totalling approximately $2,000 for the month. The gas boiler was condemned in April 2021, leaving the church without heating throughout 2022 and 2023.

The church sought a new heating system that would align with the Church of England’s sustainability goals.

“We are very pleased both with the heat from the Halos and with their appearance, which echoes the circular light fittings from 1915.”

The animation below illustrates a “Then and Now” comparison of St. Chad’s, before and after the Halo installation. The first image shows the church with pendant light fittings from the time it was built, while the second image highlights the Halo heaters, which complement the circular light fittings.

The church contacted Herschel to discuss their heating requirements for the Grade II listed building in Bradford, UK. Built between 1912 and 1914, the stunning interior of St. Chad’s is difficult to heat due to both its heritage features and scale, as well as the need to integrate heating discreetly within the historic architecture. Historic elements include decorative mosaic tiling, stained glass, and intricate craftsmanship in details such as door hardware.

In addition, the church sought a sustainable heating solution that would support the Church of England’s goal of reducing carbon emissions on the path to Net Zero.

In-depth discussions were held with the Herschel team to ensure all requirements were fully understood. St. Chad’s Church was subsequently specified with nine Halo 7.8 kW infrared heaters to heat the interior. The Halo heaters were installed in two rows of four, running from the Chancel to the rear of the Nave. They are controlled in side-by-side pairs to create the necessary heating zones for flexible operation. An additional Halo heater was installed in the Lady Chapel.

The Church of England’s Net Zero target is 2030, and it uses the Faculty system to review and approve any applications for new heating systems. To support this goal, approval is not granted for systems that rely on fossil fuels. For St. Chad’s, the Faculty was approved on December 12, 2023.

Quick Installation

Electriko, the company responsible for the installation, was ready to begin work as soon as permission was granted. The project was completed quickly, within a week, ensuring the heating system was fully operational in time for Christmas.

Running Costs

The Halo heaters have led to a significant reduction in energy costs compared to the previous system. For example, heating costs in January 2021 with the previous gas and electric system were approximately $2,000. By January 2024, heating the church with Halo cost just $600, a savings of roughly $1,400 on operating costs. A like-for-like comparison, taking into account current higher energy tariffs for gas, would result in an even greater saving if the previous system were still in use.

Switching to an all-electric heating solution has also helped the church reduce its carbon footprint, a key factor in selecting the Halo heating system.

Comfort Levels

During a visit to the church in February 2024 by a Herschel representative, feedback from the congregation on the warmth provided by the Halo heaters was overwhelmingly positive, particularly with outside temperatures around 39°F.

Listed Buildings

St. Chad’s Church is a Grade II listed building, and many other churches are likely similarly designated. Being a listed building adds complexity when seeking approval for heating upgrades. The team at St. Chad’s emphasized that:

“Herschel’s Halo heating system has an advantage over alternative systems in its suitability to work within the restrictions imposed by its listed status. These churches are also often old and poorly insulated, reducing the effectiveness of many alternatives. The Halo’s performance in such spaces is another advantage over other heating systems.” — Richard, St. Chad’s

The team at St. Chad’s has since organized visits for other parish councils to see the Halo heating system in action at the church. This also included an open day for multiple parishes to attend together.

To ensure our Halo heating solutions are designed to meet your exact requirements, our team will work with you throughout the specification process. They are happy to answer any questions, assist with necessary approvals, and provide recommendations for electricians to handle the installation.

Contact the Herschel Team today for a consultation and experience the future of church heating for yourself