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
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition) March 2025
Free download covering statutory dutyholder roles under the Building Safety Act and much more.
Minister quizzed, as responsibility transfers to MHCLG and BSR publishes new building control guidance.
UK environmental regulations reform 2025
Amid wider new approaches to ensure regulators and regulation support growth.
BSRIA Statutory Compliance Inspection Checklist
BG80/2025 now significantly updated to include requirements related to important changes in legislation.