We are delighted to be kickstarting 2026 with a brand new CIBSE-approved CPD: ‘Commercial heat pump system design & specification’.
This latest CPD provides engineers with a comprehensive guide to selecting, designing and specifying commercial heat pump and hybrid heating systems, helping them navigate the accelerating shift towards low-carbon heat in commercial buildings.
Focusing on the growing importance of heat pumps as the primary route to decarbonising heat, the CPD explores the driving forces behind their adoption, including the UK’s net zero targets, government strategy, and the policy landscape shaping the transition away from fossil fuels. It also outlines the funding mechanisms available to support low-carbon projects, such as the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme.
The CPD covers essential best practice for system specification, including regulations, design guides and industry standards, helping engineers ensure compliance and optimise system performance. Attendees will also gain an in-depth understanding of heat pump system design, such as reducing heat losses, minimising heating loads, and incorporating correct thermal store sizing.
A significant section of the CPD guides participants through the key considerations when selecting and positioning a commercial heat pump. Topics include:
- Acoustic performance
- Spacing & mounting
- Refrigerant types
- Antifreeze protection
- Defrost cycles
- External pipework protection
- Example schematics for system layouts
The CPD is aimed at all professionals involved in the design and installation of heating systems for commercial buildings, including mechanical engineers at all levels, building services engineers, sustainability engineers, engineering technicians, incorporated and chartered engineers, consultants, contractors and YEN Young Engineers. It complements and builds upon our existing CIBSE-approved heat pump training, including Low carbon systems: appliances and applications using heat pump technology.
Commenting on the launch, Richard Brown, Head of Specification at Ideal Heating Commercial, said: “As organisations move rapidly towards decarbonisation, the design and specification of commercial heat pump systems is becoming a core skill for modern building services engineers. This new CPD gives professionals the knowledge they need to make informed decisions, optimise system design and confidently navigate the technical and regulatory considerations associated with commercial heat pump installations.”
This new CPD joins our expanding CPD library, which already includes training on plant room surveying, low carbon systems, refrigerants, heat networks, HIUs and boiler heat exchanger materials.
To learn more about our CPD programme, or to book a place on any course, click here. CPDs are delivered by specification team managers either online or in person, and are available nationwide.
