Client: The Museum of Somerset, Taunton
Type of works: installation of a new heating system throughout the Museum

The Museum of Somerset is housed in the 12th Century Taunton Castle, a stunning Grade I Listed building which recently underwent a £6.93 million refurbishment. The Museum, which first opened in 1875, reopened its doors in September 2011, after being closed for nearly four years.

In addition to a vast array of historically significant exhibits, including the Frome Hoard – the largest single-collection of Roman coins ever discovered in Britain – the Museum now features state-of-the-art galleries and a variety of interactive features. A crucial phase of the renovation was the installation of a new heating system throughout the Museum, which would dramatically improve the visitor experience.

The architectural practice responsible for the refurbishment was Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios. Jaga products were specified by King Shaw Associates, the Bath-based consulting engineer firm that specialises in low-carbon, sustainable buildings, and were installed by Heat Radiation, who have worked with Jaga on several other projects in the South-West.

Jaga supplied Mini Canal trench heating, which was installed in the Great Hall and reception areas of the Museum. The Mini Canal features Jaga’s low-mass Low-H20 heat exchanger, guaranteeing fast response, outstanding thermal efficiency, and an even, comfortable distribution of warm air. The unobtrusive Mini Canal trench heating finished with rigid aluminium grilles was discreetly set underfoot, ensuring more free space to display the museum’s important historical artefacts.

White Strada radiators were used in the Museum’s café and kitchen areas, and also installed in a striking deep-red finish in the upstairs galleries.

The Strada – which won the prestigious IF Design Award – features a sleek front and clean, vertical lines on its grille. Behind their casings, the Low-H2O technology inside provides high emission values, while still saving energy.

Finally, a number of Jaga’s freestanding Mini radiators were installed in the ‘New Horizons’ Gallery. The compact Minis were positioned in front of the large windows, warming any cold draughts, and continually ensuring that the Museum’s visitors remain warm even in the cold winter months.

MINI CANAL
Jaga Mini Canal features a discreet design which is ideal for providing heat alongside glazed facades. There are more than 25 grille options available in aluminium, wood and stainless steel, as well as variety of sizes, starting at 90mm deep. The Mini Canal is ideal for providing primary or supplementary heating across multiple storeys.

Features
• Jaga’s Low-H2O technology cuts carbon emissions by 10%
• Available in curved lengths to increase design options
• Variety of connection options including central control collector, manual valve in the duct
• DBE optional

MINI FREESTANDING
Designed to fit unobtrusively underneath large windows, the Mini provides maximum heat from the smallest of appliances. The fitting and installation could not be simpler as the Low-H2O heat exchanger and casing are supplied fully assembled in one piece. With a scratch resistant finish, and wall brackets or feet as standard, the Mini serves as a sturdy and easily maintained heater.
Dimensions Height 80mm / 130mm / 230mm / 280mm Length 600-3000mm

Features
• Available with DBE technology for even greater power and efficiency
• Various ways to connect the heating elements

STRADA
The Strada radiator is small, slim-line and highly efficient, which uses significantly less water than conventional steel panel radiators. This is due to its high-tech Low-H20 heating specifications, saving up to 10-15% on energy bills. The Strada is able to rapidly reach target temperatures due to its low mass and low water content.
Dimensions Height 200mm / 350mm / 50mm Length 600-24000mm
Features
• Available with DBE technology for even greater power and efficiency
•Removal casing
Colours Scratch resistant epoxy-polyester finish with a structured satin gloss surface and high UV resistance. Standard colours without surcharge.

REFERENCE PROJECTS Pricewaterhouse Coopers University of Wales, Newport Associated Architects Aardman Animations Coventry University
Manchester Eco Home Stevenage Borough Council Chimney Pot Park Leeds Grand Theatre and Opera House Renault showroom