Heat generator
According to the Non-domestic building services compliance guide, 2013 edition, published by HM Government, the term ‘heat generator’ refers to ‘…a device for converting fuel or electricity into heat – e.g. a boiler or radiant heater.’
Commonly used heat generators include:
- Gas, solid fuel or oil boilers.
- Solid fuel burners.
- Combined heat and power (CHP) plant.
- Direct electrical heaters .
- Direct gas heaters.
- Heat pumps.
For more information see: Building heating systems.
Heat generator efficiency is the ‘…useful fuel heat output divided by the energy input in the fuel (based on gross calorific value) or electricity delivered to the heat generator, as determined by the appropriate test methods for that type of heat generator.
Heat generator seasonal efficiency is ‘…the estimated seasonal heat output from the heat generator divided by the energy input. This will depend on the heat generator efficiency and the operating mode of the heat generator over the heating season. For example, in the case of boilers it is a ‘weighted’ average of the efficiencies of the boiler at 30% and 100% of the boiler output. For other technologies the heat generator seasonal efficiency may be the same as the heat generator efficiency.’
'Heat efficiency credits are awarded for the provision of additional measures, such as additional controls, that raise the energy efficiency of the system and go beyond recommended minimum standards. Different credits apply to the different measures that are available for heating and hot water technologies.’
'Effective heat generator seasonal efficiency is obtained by adding heating efficiency credits, where applicable to the heat generator seasonal efficiency:
'Effective heat generator seasonal efficiency = heat generator seasonal efficiency + heating efficiency credits.' |
See also: Heating appliance.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Building services compliance with the building regulations.
- Building services.
- Condensing boiler.
- Corrosion in heating and cooling systems.
- Domestic building services compliance guide.
- Gross calorific value.
- Heat pump.
- Heat recovery.
- Heat transfer.
- Heating.
- Heating appliance.
- Non-domestic building services compliance guide.
- Radiant heater seasonal efficiency
- Radiant heating.
- Space heating system.
- Thermal comfort.
- Underfloor heating.
Featured articles and news
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.