Heat Networks and Heat Interface Units

This free online CPD course from BESA Academy is presented by BESA Affiliate Ideal Heating Commercial Products and provides targeted training on heat network and HIU design and specification. The course covers the fundamental principles of heat networks, their advantages, and in-depth knowledge of HIU components and functionalities, including control systems, metering, approvals, testing, and industry standards.

This course is free of charge and CIBSE accredited for CPD. Download your certificate on completion.

What You Will Learn

This course covers:

• The fundamental principles of heat networks
• The advantages of heat network systems
• Heat interface unit (HIU) components and functionalities
• Control systems for HIUs
• Metering requirements and billing solutions
• Approvals and testing procedures
• Industry standards and compliance requirements
• How to deliver efficient and compliant heat network solutions

Who Should Take This Course?

This course is suitable for building services designers and consultants responsible for heat network design, mechanical engineers and specifiers selecting HIUs, installers and contractors working on heat network projects, facilities and property managers managing existing heat networks, and anyone involved in the design, specification, installation, or maintenance of heat networks and heat interface units.

Why Heat Networks and HIUs Matter

Heat networks are essential to the UK's Net Zero strategy and the transition to low carbon heating. Heat interface units are the critical connection point between the heat network and individual dwellings or premises, controlling heat delivery, metering consumption, and ensuring safe, efficient operation.

Understanding how heat networks function, the role of HIUs, and the technical requirements for design, specification, and installation is essential for anyone working in this growing sector. Correctly designed and installed HIUs ensure reliable heat delivery, accurate billing, and optimal system performance.

The Benefits of This Course

Completing this course will help you:

• Understand the principles and advantages of heat networks
• Specify and design heat interface units correctly
• Understand HIU components, controls, and metering requirements
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and approval processes
• Deliver efficient and compliant heat network solutions
• Earn CIBSE-accredited CPD to support your professional development

Course Format

Format: 100% online, self-paced
Assessment: Knowledge check questions at the end of the course
Certification: CPD certificate available to download on completion
Accreditation: CIBSE accredited
Cost: Free of charge

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a heat network?
A heat network is a system that distributes heat from a central energy source to multiple buildings or dwellings through insulated pipework. It provides heating and, in many cases, domestic hot water, helping improve efficiency and support low carbon heating strategies.

What is a heat interface unit (HIU)?
A heat interface unit is the device that connects an individual dwelling or premises to a central heat network. It transfers heat from the network into the property for space heating and hot water, while keeping the primary network and secondary building systems separate.

Why are HIUs important in heat network systems?
HIUs are essential because they control heat delivery, help maintain safe system operation, and enable accurate metering of energy use. A well-specified HIU supports occupant comfort, system efficiency, and fair billing.

What components are typically included in an HIU?
A typical HIU may include heat exchangers, control valves, sensors, pressure controls, strainers, metering equipment, and safety components. These parts work together to regulate heat transfer and maintain reliable system performance.

How is heat use measured in a heat network?
Heat consumption is usually measured through metering installed within the HIU or associated pipework. This allows energy use to be monitored accurately for billing, performance analysis, and compliance with relevant standards.

Who should take this course?
This course is suitable for building services engineers, consultants, specifiers, installers, contractors, and facilities managers involved in the design, specification, installation, or management of heat networks and heat interface units.

Why are heat networks important for Net Zero?
Heat networks play an important role in decarbonising heat because they can connect to low carbon or renewable heat sources more easily than individual heating systems. This makes them a key part of the transition away from fossil fuel heating.

Will I receive a certificate after completing the course?
Yes. After successfully completing the course and the knowledge check questions, you will be able to download a CIBSE-accredited CPD certificate confirming your participation.