What is a heat network?
A heat network supplies heat from a central source to consumers through a network of pipes carrying hot water, removing the need for individual heating systems within homes.
Using a central heat source to provide heating for multiple homes is typically more efficient than relying on individual heating systems. Heat networks also help to reduce carbon emissions by enabling the decarbonisation of heating across the city at scale.
As part of the council’s environmental strategy, we are exploring ways to significantly improve the performance of these networks and transition them to lower-carbon heating sources. This will help create a greener environment for our city while also improving the experience, comfort, and warmth of our tenants' homes.
What is the difference between communal and district heat networks?
There are two types of heat network:
- Communal heat networks supply heating and hot water to one building or a small group of buildings, such as a block of flats.
- District heat networks supply heating and hot water to several buildings across a larger area, such as a housing estate.
Is your home connected to a heat network?
You may be connected to a heat network if:
- you live at one of the locations below
- your home does not have its own boiler
- your home does not use its own electric heating system
- you receive heating charges from the council
If you are not sure, please contact us and we can help.
For more information about heating charges visit our Understanding your district heating charge page.
Locations with heat networks
- Alfred Nichols Court
- Alnwick Court
- Barnards Yard
- Black Horse Opening
- Bradecroft
- Brewer's Court
- Britannia Court
- Canterbury Place
- Devonshire Street
- Don Pratt Court
- Douro House
- Eleanor Road
- Fellowes Close
- Harry Perry Close
- Meadowsweet
- Melbourne Cottages
- Mile Cross
- Millers Lane
- Normandie Tower
- Rowland Court
- Ryrie Court
- Seabrook Court
- Silkfields
- Silver Birch Court
- Singer Court
- St James House
- Throckmorton Yard
- Waddington Court
- Winchester Tower
Reporting a problem
If your heating or hot water is not working properly, please check the following before reporting the issue:
- your thermostat or heating controls are set correctly
- radiator valves are open
- other radiators in your home are working
- your Heat Interface Unit (HIU) is working correctly (if you have one)
- your neighbours are experiencing the same issue
If the problem continues, report it.
If the problem is not resolved
If your problem with the heating system connected to our heat networks is not resolved, you can make a formal complaint through the council’s Corporate complaints policy.
Emergency repairs
An emergency repair is a problem that could put your safety at risk or make your home unsafe, such as a major leak, loss of heating or power, or serious damage to your home.
To report an emergency, call:
- Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm - 0344 980 3333#
- Out of hours - 01603 412180
If you smell gas report it immediately to Cadent on 0800 111 999, 24 hours a day.
When you have reported it, please also let us know on 0344 980 3333.
Call 999 immediately if there is:
- Immediate danger to life or property
- Fire, gas leak, or serious incident
