FAQ's - Technical

What should I do if I think there may be a problem with my heat meter?
If you suspect that your heat meter or in home display unit is faulty, you can contact us on 0330 324 0018 and ask us to look into your meter readings. We&#...
Fri, 14 Feb, 2020 at 1:59 PM
What is combined heat and power (also known as CHP)?
  CHP provides both electric power and thermal energy (heat) from a single fuel source, typically gas. CHP works by supplying high temperature heat from a...
Fri, 14 Feb, 2020 at 1:25 PM
How does the hot water stay warm in the pipes from the energy centre until it reaches my home?
The pipework that brings hot water from the energy centre to your home is extremely well insulated.  With very little heat able to escape, water in these pi...
Fri, 14 Feb, 2020 at 1:29 PM
What should I expect if an engineer needs to visit my home?
A visit from one of our engineer’s will most likely always be pre-arranged with you, so if you’re not expecting an engineer, ask to check their photo ID. If...
Thu, 11 Feb, 2021 at 4:26 PM
What is a heat meter?
In the same way as a gas and electricity meter measure how much gas and electricity you're using, a heat meter digitally records the amount of heat used...
Fri, 14 Feb, 2020 at 2:09 PM
What are the benefits of heat networks?
Heat networks are becoming more common across the UK because of the many benefits they offer. Some of the benefits include:  Consistent and reliable heati...
Fri, 14 Feb, 2020 at 3:23 PM
Why has a heat network been installed instead of individual gas boilers?
  Heat networks are a proven low carbon solution for delivering heat from a central energy centre through a network of highly insulated pipes to supply hea...
Fri, 14 Feb, 2020 at 3:37 PM
What is a Heat Interface Unit (or HIU)?
Instead of a boiler you'll have a Heat Interface Unit (HIU) in your home located in the cupboard in your hallway. The HIU controls the transfer of heat ...
Fri, 14 Feb, 2020 at 4:20 PM
Why does the heat supply cut off when there's a fire alarm?
  There’s a safety mechanism built into the building that cuts off all power when the fire alarm is activated. Without power we can’t operate the energy ce...
Fri, 14 Feb, 2020 at 4:27 PM
What heating equipment in my home are Watkins Energy responsible for?
We are responsible for the HIU, heat meter and in-home display (if you have one), which all belong to the heat network. If you have any problems with yo...
Fri, 14 Feb, 2020 at 4:38 PM