Plumb2u Analysis Reveals: Heating Controls Dominate UK Energy Upgrades as Winter Bills Soar

Leading UK heating supplier's data confirms government statistics showing 45% of energy efficiency installations are heating controls, not insulation

EPSOM, UK - 11 September 2025 - New analysis by Plumb2u, one of the UK's largest independent heating and plumbing suppliers, has revealed that heating controls have become the nation's most popular energy efficiency upgrade, accounting for nearly half of all government-supported installations in 2024.

The company's sales data, which tracks purchasing patterns across thousands of UK households, aligns perfectly with official Department for Energy Security and Net Zero statistics showing that heating controls represented 45% of all Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme installations last year-making them more popular than traditional measures like loft insulation or cavity wall upgrades.

"Our customers are voting with their wallets, and the message is clear: they want immediate control over their energy costs without the disruption of major building work," said a spokesperson for Plumb2u. "We're seeing unprecedented demand for heating controls as households prepare for another expensive winter."

Three Brands Lead the Winter Rush

Plumb2u's analysis of sales patterns reveals three brands consistently dominating customer demand as winter approaches:

1. Honeywell Home - Leading the smart thermostat market with advanced learning capabilities and smartphone integration
2. Salus - Popular for reliable, cost-effective programmable controls and wireless systems
3. EPH Controls - Gaining ground with competitively priced, professional-grade heating management solutions

"These aren't impulse purchases," explains the Plumb2u spokesperson. "Customers are researching extensively and choosing systems that offer both immediate savings and long-term value. With energy bills capped at £1,755 for a typical household this winter, a £550 investment in heating controls that can save £110 annually makes compelling financial sense."

The Smart Alternative to Expensive Retrofits

While government and industry campaigns have traditionally focused on insulation and fabric improvements, Plumb2u's market intelligence suggests UK households are taking a more pragmatic approach to energy efficiency.

The company's data shows that heating control upgrades offer several advantages over traditional energy efficiency measures:

Lower upfront costs: Full heating control systems typically cost £550 compared to £1,000+ for cavity wall insulation
Immediate installation: Most systems can be fitted in a single day without major disruption
Instant control: Homeowners gain immediate ability to manage energy consumption room-by-room
Future-ready: Smart systems can integrate with renewable technologies as they become more affordable

Market Intelligence Reveals Sophisticated Consumer Behaviour

Plumb2u's analysis reveals that UK consumers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their approach to energy efficiency. Rather than following traditional advice to "insulate first," many are prioritising control systems that allow them to optimise their existing heating infrastructure.

"We're seeing customers who've done their homework," notes the company spokesperson. "They understand that upgrading their heating system's 'brain' can deliver immediate results while they plan for bigger investments like heat pumps or comprehensive insulation projects."

The trend is particularly pronounced among landlords and property managers, who are using heating control upgrades to improve Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings ahead of new regulations requiring rental properties to achieve 'C' ratings for new tenancies from 2025.

Winter Preparation Drives Record Demand

As the UK prepares for another challenging winter energy season, Plumb2u reports that heating control sales have increased significantly compared to the same period last year. The company attributes this surge to a combination of factors:

Rising awareness of energy efficiency options
Improved technology making smart controls more accessible
Government schemes supporting heating upgrades
Proactive consumer behaviour ahead of winter price increases

"This isn't just about saving money-though that's obviously important," explains the Plumb2u spokesperson. "It's about giving people back control over their energy consumption. When you can adjust your heating room-by-room, schedule it around your lifestyle, and monitor usage in real-time, you're empowered to make informed decisions about your energy use."

For more information about heating controls and energy efficiency solutions, visit www.plumb2u.com or call 03300 535899.

Unit 6, Epsom Business Park
Kiln Lane, KT17 1JF
Epsom, Surrey
United Kingdom

About Plumb2u

Plumb2u is one of the UK's leading independent suppliers of heating, plumbing, and bathroom products, serving both trade professionals and homeowners across the country. Based in Epsom, Surrey, the company has built a reputation for competitive pricing, extensive product knowledge, and exceptional customer service. With thousands of products in stock and nationwide delivery, Plumb2u has become a trusted partner for heating engineers, plumbers, and homeowners seeking quality heating solutions.

This release was published on openPR.