Housing associations

Developed and manufactured by industry leaders Mira Showers, the new Mira Advance Heatloop^TM is the first ever electric shower to be designed to work with Recoup waste water heat recovery for shower systems (WWHRS), revolutionising waste water efficiency and reducing energy wastage.

While showering represents around 50 to 75% of household hot water use, around 85% to 90% of the heat energy in shower water actually ends up going down the drain. With research from the Energy Saving Trust revealing that heating water at home also makes up about 5% of the UK’s carbon emissions, it’s never been more important to identify a way of reusing that lost heat to save energy and reduce energy bills for end users to support the decarbonisation of UK homes.

The need to introduce more energy efficient and cost-effective systems into the home is further exacerbated by the impact the cost-of-living crisis has had on peoples’ finances, especially those living in social housing. Even the slightest adjustment to everyday tasks, such as showering, and their resultant costs, could make a huge difference.

In an era where energy efficiency, tenant comfort, and sustainability are paramount concerns for Housing Associations across the UK, the role of high-quality windows in social housing cannot be overstated says Howard Trotter, Business Manager of Birmingham-based window and door manufacturer Shelforce.

Since this announcement in January 2022, major water companies have been developing plans to upgrade the UKs water supply and reduce current usage from 150 litres per person per day to 110.  

Smart meters are seen as a significant part of the solution to reducing domestic water usage.  Thames Water have recorded post installation savings of 12-17%1.  Following multiple trials, all water companies are now working on plans for Advanced metering infrastructure, where all new connections or meters use the latest generation of smart meters.

Housing associations are increasingly looking to deliver low carbon, energy efficient housing for tenants. As such, the refurbishment, retrofit or new build landscape for housing associations requires continual evaluation.

A combination of government net zero targets and the cost-of-living crisis, fuelled by high energy prices, means the pressure is on for social housing providers to find solutions to the growth of people living in fuel poverty. Yet, in doing so, the sector also needs to remain compliant with the changing legislation demands, which are designed to create a low carbon housing future for all.

James Clack, Sales Director of Victorian Sliders, makes the case for vertical sliding sash windows in housing association properties.

Howard Trotter, business manager of window and fire door manufacturer Shelforce, discusses stricter regulations and controls for property improvement and maintenance – and why landlords must meet them.

Howard Trotter, business manager of window and fire door manufacturer Shelforce, discusses whether housing associations are getting value for money for crucial products – and how they can successfully balance both cost and quality.

The social housing landscape is constantly evolving; but what is not, is a commitment to the safety and quality of life for residents.

As housing associations strive to provide comfortable and secure homes for their residents, a critical aspect involves the maintenance and enhancement of properties, with replacement windows and doors, including fire doors, essential components for both safety and energy efficiency.