Tenants ‘struggling with cost’ of air-to-water heating

A claim that the cost of running air-to-water heating systems installed in their homes has been causing headaches for some of Westmeath County Council’s tenants was made at the September meeting of the council.

It was Cllr Ken Glynn who made the claim, stating that some tenants are finding the bills “literally beyond their means”.

Cllr Ken Glynn asked whether tenants were properly informed about air-to-water systems before they were installed, whether they had an option to refuse them and whether the running costs were explained.

He said he had recently been approached by tenants who were struggling with their bills.

“Have they had an option to refuse it? And has the cost been explained?” he asked.

Westmeath County Council director of Housing, Ambrose Clarke, said tenants offered air-to-water systems do not have to accept them.

The council have installed 122 air-to-water systems between 2021 and 2026.

The annual figures have varied – and 25 were installed in 2024 and 24 in 2025.

Nine had been installed during the current year at the time of the meeting, although Mr Clarke said the council were also working through some outstanding installations from 2025.

He suggested that the way the systems are operated could be an important factor.

“They do get a manual when they’re put in, but you have to learn how to use it,” he told councillors.

“It’s not the same as turning the heat on and off in your traditional house.”

Mr Clarke said tenants who were having difficulties could contact the council for assistance.

“There is support,” he said, adding that the council would try to help tenants who needed extra assistance.

RETROFITTING

At the same meeting, Cllr Vinny McCormack raised concerns over a shortfall in the number of energy retrofits being carried out on Westmeath County Council homes.

He told the council meeting that 45 retrofits had been targeted for this year, but, he said, the council appeared likely to deliver only 28, describing the shortfall as “substantial”.

Mr Clarke acknowledged that the figures in the council’s monthly management report appeared low, but said progress had been made since the figures had been compiled.

He said the number of completed energy upgrades had increased from 18 to 24, and a further 25 properties were well on the way.

Mr Clarke also indicated that the council expected to overspend their existing retrofit budget and would be seeking additional funding.

The latest national performance data shows Westmeath County Council carried out 14 social housing retrofits in 2025, although all of those homes achieved a B2 energy rating or higher.