From temporary heating to a permanent Shadow Heritage solution
Plans to replace the church's ageing heating system became urgent when its wall-mounted gas heaters were condemned and disconnected following an inspection.
Without its main heating, the church faced difficult conditions during colder months. Temporary heaters provided some localised warmth, but coverage was limited, and the cold affected attendance among some older members of the congregation.
The church ordered ten Shadow 2.4kW Fatboy heaters as an interim measure while it worked towards securing funding and approvals for a permanent solution.
St Anne's needed a permanent heating solution that balanced comfort and running costs with the building's character and the church's environmental objectives. After exploring various options with diocesan net zero advisers, the diocesan architectural committee, architects and contractors, the church selected infrared heating.
The installation combines two Shadow Chandeliers with twelve Shadow Solace 24 heaters, providing radiant heating that complements the historic surroundings. Zoned control gives the church the flexibility to heat only the areas being used, whether for a small gathering or a larger service. This helps avoid unnecessary energy use while accommodating different congregation sizes and activities. The appearance of the new heaters was an important consideration. Early feedback highlighted how well they fitted the interior, complementing the existing suspended lighting and the gold tones within the church.
For St Anne's, the installation marks the transition from temporary heating to a permanent system designed to support the next chapter of worship and community activity within its historic building.
The permanent heating system at St Anne's combines two Shadow Chandeliers with twelve Shadow Solace 24 ceramic infrared heaters from the Shadow Heritage range.
Together, they provide a radiant heating solution designed to complement the church's Victorian interior. The suspended Shadow Chandeliers position heat above in the nave, while the Solace 24 units provide additional coverage throughout the church aisles.
By directing radiant warmth towards people and surrounding surfaces, the system reduces reliance on warming the entire volume of air within the high ceiling building.
The overall project included removing the former heaters and making good the affected areas before the new equipment could be installed. The church estimated that the overall work took around four to six weeks, including removal preparation, new lighting scheme, and the heating installation itself taking approximately two weeks once everything was ready. The existing three-phase electricity supply was retained.
The permanent installation comprises:
The installation uses the church's existing three-phase electricity supply. With limited spare capacity, the church received advice on managing other electrical loads when the heating is operating.
- Vicar - Andrew Jones, St Anne's Church
St Anne's Church has moved from temporary heating to a permanent infrared system designed around the needs of its congregation and the character of its building.
The combination of Shadow Chandeliers, Solace 24 heaters and zoned control gives the church greater flexibility to manage heating for worship, concerts and wider community activities. With the installation complete, the next step is to assess comfort and operating patterns through winter.
At Shadow Heating, we offer free, no-obligation quotes and expert guidance to help you find the right heating solution for your church or heritage building.
Start by completing our enquiry form, sharing details of your space, heating requirements and electrical supply. Our team will review your answers and contact you to discuss suitable options and the next steps towards your personalised quote.
Where a site survey is appropriate and your electrical supply is suitable for the proposed system, we'll arrange a complimentary visit. Using our advanced 3D imaging camera, we can assess heater positioning and prepare a detailed layout plan to accompany your comprehensive quote.
If you're unsure whether you have three-phase power, we're happy to help you understand what information is needed and guide you through the next steps.
We understand that making changes to churches and heritage buildings can be a complex and lengthy process. From your first enquiry to your final heating plan, we're here to support you at every stage.
.png)
