Temporary Heating at St Mary's, Staines
When the existing boiler at St Mary's Church unexpectedly failed shortly before Christmas, the church needed an effective temporary heating solution and quickly.
With only a few weeks remaining before its Christmas services, maintaining a comfortable and welcoming environment for the congregation was a priority. However, the church also needed time to carefully assess the practical, financial and electrical requirements of a permanent replacement system.
Four Shadow Solace infrared heaters were installed on freestanding supports within the nave, providing a flexible temporary heating solution without requiring permanent alterations to the historic building.
Finding the right long-term heating solution for St Mary's was not straightforward. The church needed to consider several factors, including:
Several options were considered, including a replacement oil boiler, an electric boiler, under-pew heating and suspended Shadow Chandelier heaters. Each presented different practical, financial and electrical considerations.
The immediate challenge was to provide sufficient warmth for the congregation while giving the church time to explore these options properly.
Despite the limitations of the existing electrical supply, the four Shadow Solace heaters made a noticeable difference during services. Members of the congregation could feel the benefit when seated or standing near the heaters, helping the church remain welcoming throughout the colder months.
The appearance of the heaters was also important. Their discreet, linear design complemented the character of the church, with no complaints about their visual impact.
Most importantly, the temporary system gave St Mary's valuable breathing space following the boiler failure. Rather than rushing into a major investment, the church could continue holding services while carefully considering the most appropriate permanent heating solution.
Four Shadow Solace infrared heaters were installed on freestanding supports within the nave.
The church's existing single-phase electrical supply limited the number of heaters that could be operated, with each unit needing to use a separate socket. The four-heater arrangement therefore provided a practical solution that worked within the available electrical capacity.
Unlike conventional heating systems that attempt to warm all the air within a large, high-ceilinged church, Shadow Solace heaters provide radiant warmth directly to people and surrounding surfaces. This made them particularly suitable for creating localised areas of comfort around the congregation.
The freestanding installation could be introduced quickly and did not require permanent alterations to the building. It also gave the church the flexibility to reposition the heaters when required.
The Shadow Solace uses advanced long-wave infrared technology to deliver gentle, comfortable radiant warmth with minimal warm-up time. Its modular, linear design makes it particularly well suited to churches, heritage properties and other architecturally sensitive interiors.
- A representative from St Mary's Church
The installation at St Mary's demonstrates how freestanding Shadow Solace heaters can provide a fast, flexible and visually sympathetic response when an existing church heating system unexpectedly fails.
Although intended as an interim measure, the system provided much-needed warmth during an important period while allowing the church to take the necessary time to evaluate its permanent heating options.
For churches facing a boiler failure or requiring temporary warmth while planning a larger heating project, freestanding infrared heaters can provide an effective solution without requiring immediate, permanent alterations to the building.
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.
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