Discover Church Heating Solutions
Discover our church heating solutions and how the ARCAngel product suite can keep your church warm.
About the Building
St Edmund’s College is one of England’s oldest Catholic schools, home to several historic chapels designed in the Gothic Revival tradition.
The Galilee Chapel, completed in 1922 by architect F.A. Walters, is a Grade I-listed space used for worship, exams, and musical performances. Its tall ceilings and ornate finishes meant that heating had to be both sensitive and effective.
Heating Before ARC Thermal
The chapel previously relied on aging quartz-ray heaters and two fan units, both noisy and increasingly unreliable.
“Fan heaters had to be switched off during mass because of the noise … As the space was used more often, we needed something reliable and discreet that could warm both the air and the building fabric.”
Traditional wet or air-source systems weren’t possible due to the building’s protected fabric and lack of pipework.
Why ARC Thermal
The College approached ARC Thermal Solutions seeking a modern, low-impact replacement that could meet heritage-approval requirements and reduce maintenance.
ARC recommended ETHERMA EEZ-2000 infrared heaters - slimline, silent, and designed for listed or architecturally sensitive environments.
“ARC supported us throughout the approval process with the Westminster Diocese Historic Churches Committee”
“They provided all the information needed to confirm that infrared heating would have minimal impact on the building.”
The Installation
ARC Thermal’s team installed the EEZ-2000 panels strategically to provide even coverage without drawing attention to the heaters themselves. The panels’ insulated rear surfaces protect the historic walls and ceilings while efficiently radiating heat into the space.
“The installation was well planned by Damian Deen. The team left the chapel spotless once the job was complete.”
The Results
Silent, glare-free warmth with no visual distraction
Maintains a steady 15 °C background, reaching 21 °C within an hour
Protects the heritage fabric – no drilling or pipework required
Reliable comfort for services, exams, and concerts
Minimal maintenance and long service life
Looking Ahead
Following the success in the Galilee Chapel, St Edmund’s College plans to extend infrared heating to other chapels when funding allows.
“Yes, without hesitation”
“The process from survey to installation and commissioning was straightforward, and the units work extremely well.”
Could Infrared Heating Solve Your Challenges Too?
If you’re working with a listed building, heritage site, or complex space where traditional systems fall short, ARC Thermal can help.
Our experienced team designs tailored infrared solutions that protect original features while delivering lasting comfort and efficiency.
Let ARC Thermal make your space as comfortable as it is beautiful and request a quote today.