ICH Services successfully completed a comprehensive heating system upgrade for Waitrose Bracknell’s office and warehouse facilities. Moreover, the project modernised the old steam‑based system by installing a new, energy‑efficient solution that improves comfort and supports long-term sustainability. In addition, all works were managed carefully to maintain safe, uninterrupted operations throughout the building.
Before the heating system upgrade, the Waitrose Bracknell sites faced several key challenges:
Outdated and inefficient steam heat exchangers, which risked poor heating performance and higher energy costs.
Lack of targeted heating in certain areas, including the warehouse and welding bay, resulting in inconsistent comfort levels.
Complex integration with existing gas pipework and electrical systems, requiring careful adaptation and upgrades.
Building Management System (BMS) integration, combined with fire safety and compliance requirements, added further complexity.
Maintaining uninterrupted operations, as the upgrade had to be carefully scheduled to avoid disrupting warehouse or office activities.
To address these challenges, ICH Services delivered a carefully planned heating system upgrade package, executed in phases to minimise disruption. As a result, the facility benefited from enhanced heating performance and energy efficiency:
Installation of an Air-to-Water Heat Pump system: Replacing the obsolete steam infrastructure with modern, efficient technology that supports both office and warehouse heating.
Dedicated spot‑heating units: Used for the warehouse and welding bay areas to ensure targeted heating where required. Moreover, these units boost comfort and operational efficiency.
Modification and reconnection of gas pipework: Where needed to safely accommodate the new heating plant. Meanwhile, electrical systems and controls were updated to support the new setup.
Integration with Building Management System (BMS): Enabling simplified control, monitoring, and energy management across all heating zones.
Fire‑safety compliance coordination: In cooperation with fire‑alarm specialists (e.g., interface with fire‑safety contractors) to ensure full safety standards on completion.
The heating system upgrade delivered multiple, measurable benefits for Waitrose Bracknell:
Improved energy efficiency and system performance, lowering operational costs and reducing environmental impact.
Enhanced comfort and heating consistency across both office and warehouse spaces, including key zones like the welding bay.
Simplified building control and monitoring through BMS integration, increasing operational visibility and ease of maintenance.
Seamless delivery with minimal disruption, the facility remained fully operational throughout the works.
Compliance with fire safety and safety standards, ensuring occupant safety and regulatory adherence.
At ICH Services, we understand the importance of energy-efficient, safe, and modern heating systems, especially in live commercial environments. Moreover, we’re ready to help you achieve similar upgrades tailored to your needs. Visit our Projects page to explore more successful installations, or get in touch today to discuss your facility’s requirements.
