Munday & Cramer supported Tiptree Heath Primary School to secure CIF funding to replace its life‑expired heating system, following a series of independent surveys that confirmed the boilers, pipework, emitters and controls were all beyond economical repair. Much of the system was over 50 years old, heavily corroded and operating below the required efficiency standards. The school had been managing frequent leaks, poor circulation and unreliable temperatures, all of which was increasing maintenance costs.

This CIF project delivered a complete renewal of the heating plant, distribution network and BMS controls, providing the school with a safe, efficient and sustainable system that supports long‑term operational resilience.

The Challenge

Prior to the works, the school’s heating system had reached a critical point. Mechanical engineers described the distribution network as “well beyond 50 years old, exceeding the CIBSE recommended economic service life”, with high levels of corrosion, leaks and uninsulated pipework contributing to significant heat loss and inefficiency. Many radiators were undersized or heavily corroded, and the absence of functioning TRVs meant classrooms regularly overheated or failed to reach the minimum recommended temperature of 16°C.

The boilers were obsolete, with replacement parts no longer available. A gas safety inspection formally classified the boiler plant as dangerous, highlighting the severity of the risk. The BMS was largely non‑functional, leaving the school with minimal control over heating zones and no ability to manage energy use effectively.

These issues created a cycle of continuous repairs, rising energy bills and inconsistent temperatures across the school. Staff frequently resorted to temporary electric heaters, increasing CO₂ emissions, increased electricity bills and creating fire and safety risks. The school risked partial or full closure if the system failed during colder months.

Our Approach

Munday & Cramer developed a comprehensive strategy that addressed the heating infrastructure from boilers, pipework, emitters and controls through to ensuring full compliance the latest standard.

Once funding was secured, we managed procurement, contractor appointment and all site operations. The works were carefully phased to take place primarily during school holidays, avoiding disruption to teaching and ensuring the system could be safely isolated and replaced.

The Solution

The project delivered a complete renewal of the school’s heating system. The obsolete boilers were replaced with energy efficient units capable of providing reliable heat output and stable performance. The distribution network, including all corroded pipework being removed and replaced with insulated, durable pipework to eliminate leaks and reduce heat loss.

New low surface temperature radiators were installed throughout the school, improving safety for pupils and ensuring consistent heat delivery. A modern BMS was set up to give the school full control over heating zones, timings and temperatures, significantly reducing wasted energy and improving comfort levels across all teaching spaces.

The new system provides a long‑term, maintainable solution reducing future repair costs and ensuring the school can operate efficiently for decades to come.

The Outcome

The completed project has delivered a safe, reliable and energy‑efficient heating system that has transformed the school’s internal environment. Classrooms now reach and maintain appropriate temperatures, supporting pupil wellbeing and improving the conditions for learning. The risk of leaks, bursts and emergency closures has been eliminated, and the school no longer relies on temporary electric heaters.

The new BMS gives staff precise control over energy use, helping the school reduce carbon emissions and align with its wider sustainability goals. Maintenance demands have fallen and the school now benefits from a system with a long service life and significantly lower running costs.

Most importantly, the project has given the school a safe, compliant system, ensuring a warm, stable and comfortable environment for pupils and staff throughout the year.

Building Surveying
Architectural Design
Planning and Building Regulations
Procurement
Project Management