Installing Sunamp heat batteries in new build homes: A guide for housing developers

The way we heat and provide hot water in new homes is changing. With stricter building regulations, higher expectations from buyers, and the move towards low-carbon heating, housebuilders are looking for smarter ways to design efficient homes.

Traditional hot water cylinders have been used for decades, but they are often large, take up valuable cupboard space, and can limit how developers design modern, compact properties. This is where Sunamp heat batteries are becoming an increasingly popular solution.

Sunamp provides a compact, high-performance alternative to traditional hot water storage, helping developers create energy efficient homes without sacrificing space, comfort, or design flexibility.

What is a Sunamp heat battery?

A Sunamp heat battery is a compact thermal storage system that stores heat using advanced phase change material (PCM) technology.

Unlike a conventional hot water cylinder that stores a large volume of hot water, a Sunamp stores energy within a safe, stable material called Plentigrade. When heat is required, the stored energy is released to provide hot water on demand.

This means a Sunamp can deliver mains pressure hot water while taking up significantly less space than a traditional cylinder.

For developers, this opens up new possibilities when designing homes, especially apartments, smaller properties and high specification developments where every square metre matters.

Why are housebuilders choosing Sunamp?

One of the biggest challenges for modern developments is balancing energy efficiency with practical design.

A traditional cylinder often requires a dedicated airing cupboard or plant space. In smaller homes, this can mean losing valuable storage space or compromising on layouts.

Sunamp heat batteries are much smaller than conventional cylinders, meaning they can be installed in kitchens, utility rooms, or other areas where space is limited. This gives architects and developers more freedom when planning properties.

For apartment developments, where space is often at a premium, the compact size of Sunamp can be a major advantage.

Improving energy efficiency in new homes

New build homes are designed with energy efficiency in mind. Better insulation, airtightness and renewable technologies are becoming standard features, and hot water systems need to match these improvements.

Sunamp works particularly well alongside low carbon technologies such as solar PV, heat pumps, and off-peak energy tariffs.

A Sunamp can be charged when energy is cheapest or when renewable energy is available, then used later when hot water is needed.

For properties with solar panels, excess electricity generated during the day can be stored as heat rather than exported back to the grid. This helps homeowners make better use of their own renewable energy, and can improve the overall performance of the property.

A future-ready alternative to traditional cylinders

The energy market is changing rapidly. Developers are increasingly looking for solutions that will remain suitable for future homeowners as tariffs, regulations, and technology continue to evolve.

A Sunamp heat battery offers flexibility because it can be heated from multiple energy sources.

It can work with electricity, solar PV, and heat pumps, making it easier to create homes that are ready for future energy demands.

Rather than installing a system that is designed around today’s requirements only, developers can choose a solution that supports the transition towards smarter, more flexible homes.

Helping developments achieve sustainability targets

Sustainability is becoming a key consideration for both developers and buyers.

Energy efficient homes are not only better for the environment, they are also more attractive to buyers who want lower running costs and modern technology. Including technologies like Sunamp can help developments stand out by offering:

• More efficient hot water storage
• Reduced space requirements
• Compatibility with renewable energy
• Improved use of solar generation
• A modern alternative to traditional hot water systems

For developers working towards higher EPC ratings and low carbon targets, Sunamp can form an important part of the overall energy strategy.

Faster installation and simplified design

For large developments, installation time and consistency are important.

Sunamp systems are much more compact than traditional cylinders, and are very simple to install. Their modular design also allows developers to standardise hot water solutions across multiple properties.

A repeatable installation process and help reduce on-site complications, and improve efficiency for contractors.

Is Sunamp suitable for every new build?

Sunamp heat batteries are suitable for a huge range of property types, from apartments and smaller homes to larger properties.

The correct size will depend on the hot water requirements of the property and the number of occupants. We offer a range of sizes within the Thermino range, allowing developers to choose the right solution for each project.

For some properties, a traditional cylinder may still be suitable, but for developments where space, efficiency, and future readiness are priorities, a heat battery can offer significant advantages.

The future of hot water storage in housing developments

The homes being build today need to perform well for decades. Buyers expect comfort, efficiency, and technology that supports lower energy bills.

Sunamp heat batteries provide developers with a practical way to deliver modern hot water systems that save space and work alongside renewable energy.

As the UK continues moving towards electrification and lower carbon homes, solutions like Sunamp will become an increasingly important part of the future of housebuilding.

If you are a housing developer looking for a compact, efficient hot water solution for your next project, Sunamp could be the perfect choice.

Get in touch with our team on 01244 732705 to find out more and to obtain trade pricing.