Zeroth Energy System
Combining a refrigerant-free low temperature network and in-apartment heat pumps to provide HVAC services to residential apartments



Zeroth Energy System
This innovative system has been designed in conjunction with leading industry developers, recognising the need for a new, highly efficient communal solution for residential apartments.
The Zeroth Energy System takes a compact, in-apartment water source heat pump, low temperature (or ambient) energy loop and central plant to offer heating, hot water and comfort cooling to apartment developments as a commercially advantageous solution.


Suitable for offsite prefabrication, including utility pods


Flexible choice of plant technology, apartment controls and hydronic emitters


Up to a 50% reduction in plant room footprint


Reduces overheating in communal areas and peak heat losses by up to 90%


Cost effective comfort cooling through a two-pipe system


System efficiency of greater than 300% when modelled with an air source heat pump in SAP 2012
In-apartment heat pumps provide efficient HVAC services
The advantages of heat pumps are available across multiple applications but are best placed in well-insulated buildings where the heat pump effects on furthering the building efficiency can be realised. Apartments can benefit from a system where all the heating, cooling and hot water supply is provided by an in-apartment heat pump.
A heat pump may also be integrated with a specific function, such as mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, to maximise the energy cycle. The system can work together with another energy source, such a traditional combustion boiler but also integrate with a fully renewable source like solar PV system. In addition to the primary function of a heat pump to deliver HVAC services, the excess energy generated can be discharged into thermal storage systems, or buffer tanks, to provide a more efficient on-demand service for heating and cooling without the need to short cycle the system when the demand is low. This creates a more efficient and sustainable communal energy network.
Product specification
The Zeroth unit is a water source heat pump, which connects to a low temperature (or ambient) water loop designed at 25°C. This loop is kept within operating temperatures by a central plant:
Product Range | Description | Nominal Rating at S25/W35* | Cylinder Size | Controller | Max Flow Temp |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Zeroth Energy System | A water-to-water in-apartment heat pump connecting to a low temperature network to provide heating, hot water and cooling services to residential apartments | 4 & 6.4kW | 172L | In-built user-friendly controls, with option for external inputs to third party controllers | 55°C heating |
*S25= Source temperature at 25°C / W35= water temperature 35°C |
Discover more about designing communal ambient networks
Technical Resources
For Zeroth Energy System BIM files, spec sheets and product information, alongside solution brochures and compliance guides, visit out technical resource page.
CPDs
To learn more, book a CPD on the benefits of low temperature networks or on the Future Homes Standard to see how it performs in upcoming regulatory changes.
Contact us
To discuss the Zeroth Energy System and how it can be applied to your project in more detail, get in contact to be put in touch with your regional specialist.