This video series created by the UK Department for Energy Security & Net Zero is to support upskilling operation and maintenance in the heat networks sector.

It explains heat network fundamentals and the factors that affect performance and reliability, including:

temperatures, monitoring, water quality, heat interface units, insulation, bypasses and pumps
procurement and contracting, including appointing contractors, procuring building management services and managing the process of procuring a contractor for installation through to operation
key information for heat network consumers, including billing and support routes

The videos also support wider market readiness for future technical standards by encouraging training provision, signposting existing Heat Training Grant courses and promoting careers in the heat networks sector.

They are designed for:

current and future staff working for heat network service providers
owners or managers of buildings that are supplied by district heat networks or communally heated systems
teaching students about the heat network sector (as an educational resource)
informing and engaging end users, with the inclusion of a consumer-focused video

The content is suitable for a wide audience: no technical knowledge is required.

1.1 What is a heat network?

This video explains the basics in plain English: what a heat network is, the different types (communal, campus, district), and how heat moves from an energy centre through insulated pipes to buildings. You’ll also see why this matters for bills, carbon and energy security - plus a real UK example using waste heat to serve thousands of homes. A great primer for anyone involved in planning, owning or operating connected buildings.

Watch the video here.

1.2 Flow and return temperatures in heat networks

This video demystifies what “flow”, “return” and “Delta T” mean - and why a bigger gap between flow and return usually signals a more efficient network. You’ll come away understanding how temperature choices affect energy use, customer comfort and long-term running costs. It’s a simple concept with outsized commercial impact - ideal viewing for decision-makers who need to ask the right questions of designers, operators and contractors.

Watch the video here.

1.3 Monitoring heat networks

This video shows why monitoring is essential for keeping a heat network efficient, reliable and cost-effective – and what to track day-to-day (flow rates, temperatures/Delta T and energy consumption). It explains how basic sensors and smart alerts help catch problems early, reduce breakdowns and protect customer comfort. You’ll also get practical guidance on setting up monitoring, maintaining accuracy and spotting warning signs in the data before they turn into expensive failures. A must-watch for owners and operators who want control, not surprises.

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1.4 Water quality in heat networks

This video explains how poor water leads to corrosion, scaling, blockages and rising energy bills - and why it’s a common cause of early system failure. You’ll get a clear overview of what affects water quality, what “good” looks like, and the practical options for treatment (mechanical and chemical), including approaches aligned with VDI 2035. If you want fewer callouts, longer asset life and better performance, this is essential viewing.

Watch the video here.

1.5 Heat Interface Units (HIUs) for heat networks

This video breaks down what an HIU does, its key functions (including heat transfer, controls and metering), and the difference between direct and indirect HIUs - with a clear explanation of the trade-offs. It also highlights why correct selection, professional installation and routine maintenance matter for long-term reliability. If you’re responsible for customer experience, operational risk or lifecycle cost, this will help you make better, more informed decisions.

Watch the video here.

1.6 Insulation in heat networks

This video explains how insulation protects efficiency by keeping heat in the pipes, whether underground or inside buildings. It covers common issues in older networks (like unwanted heat in corridors and communal areas), practical best practice and why standards such as CIBSE CP1 and EN 253 matter. You’ll also hear why inspection and maintenance are key to keeping performance where it should be. Watch this if you want lower losses, better comfort and fewer complaints.

Watch the video here.

1.7 Bypasses for heat network connections

This video explains what bypasses do (keeping flow moving even when demand drops), why they protect pumps and system balance and the main types - fixed flow, trickle and thermostatic - with examples of where each fits. It also flags common pitfalls like poor sizing, bad calibration and avoidable heat loss, plus the role of routine maintenance. Great for anyone trying to improve performance and avoid “mystery” inefficiencies.

Watch the video here.

1.8 Pumps in heat networks

This video gives a clear, non-technical overview of pump types, how they keep heat circulating, and why the “right” flow and pressure is determined by network size, distance and real-time demand. It also explains how smart controls and sensors help pumps respond efficiently, reducing energy waste and risk of failure. Expect practical takeaways on selection, installation and maintenance that support reliability and predictable running costs - without getting lost in engineering detail.

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2.1 Appointing a heat network contractor

This video explains how to set your contractor up for success with clear expectations, starting with a robust Requirements Document that locks in design intent, performance targets and responsibilities. It also covers what to look for beyond price: proven heat network experience, relevant credentials, understanding of current and incoming regulation, and a track record of delivering to industry best practice. Watch this to avoid costly misunderstandings, weak handovers and tricky post-construction disputes with your contractor- and to protect performance for the long term.

Watch the video here.

2.2 Procuring building management services for heat networks

This video breaks down how to procure the right provider - from specialist experience and emergency response capability, to transparent pricing and service agreements. It also explains why a solid contract requirements document matters, how to set meaningful KPIs, and how digital reporting and remote monitoring can improve accountability. Watch this if you want fewer surprises, faster issue resolution and a clear framework for ongoing optimisation and compliance.

Watch the video here.

2.3 Heat network consumers - what do I need to know?

If you own, manage or communicate with customers on a heat network, this is the “plain English” explainer you’ll want in your toolkit. It covers how heat networks work in the home, what an HIU is, how bills are typically structured (usage, standing charge and fees) and practical ways customers can manage their costs. It also sets out what to do when things go wrong - who to contact, common issues to watch for and how complaints and escalation routes work. Watch to reduce confusion and complaints amongst your customers as well as reduce reputational risk.

Watch the video here.

2.4 District and communal heat network connectivity

This video explains the difference between district and communal networks, why interconnections need to be managed well (temperature, pressure, controls and the condition of legacy systems) and the practical solutions that make them work. You’ll hear how thermal storage, smart control, insulation upgrades, weather compensation and building management systems all help balance loads and cut waste. Watch this to understand the opportunity district heat networks offer and the key questions to ask before you connect.

Watch the video here.

3.1 Contracting a heat network: from installation to operation

This video walks building managers through what “good” looks like, from commissioning and testing (generation, distribution, HIUs/heat exchangers and metering) to documentation, training and handover. It also highlights contract essentials: measurable performance, clear responsibilities, change control, realistic warranties, and post-installation support. Watch this to reduce project risk, avoid expensive remediation, and ensure the network performs as promised-long after the installer has left site.

Watch the video here.

Heat networks: operation and maintenance upskilling videos