Case Study - Boiler Replacement at Erasmus Darwin House

Tina Hart Preto • April 11, 2025

Erasmus Darwin House – Grade 1 Listed Museum in Lichfield

Erasmus Darwin House Lichfield on a summers day, next to Lichfield Cathereral with the Harnce van on the drive

The Challenge

Erasmus Darwin House, the historic home of the renowned physician, inventor, and grandfather of Charles Darwin, required urgent heating upgrades. Two of the four gas boilers had become unreliable after 25 years of service, affecting the efficiency of the heating system. As a Grade 1 listed building, any changes had to be carefully managed to preserve the historic fabric of the property.


Why Harnce Heating & Plumbing?

Many well-known energy providers were unable to install new boilers in commercial properties. After listing the job on Checkatrade, Erasmus Darwin House received several responses, Harnce are based in Lichfield, a family run business with over 20 years experience and were selected by the committee due to its competitive quote, professional approach, and experience with heritage buildings.


The Process

Harnce conducted a site visit and provided expert recommendations tailored to the museum’s needs. The installation process was seamless, with minimal disruption to the daily operations of the museum. The team worked carefully within the constraints of a historic site, ensuring all work met conservation requirements.


The Solution & Impact

Harnce replaced the aging boilers with modern, energy-efficient models, significantly improving reliability and heating performance. The museum also opted for Harnce’s monthly Members Club service plan, which includes regular maintenance and Gas Safety Certificates for all four boilers.


Client Testimonial


“We would highly recommend Harnce Heating & Plumbing. The service was professional, the installation was quick, and the new boilers are much more efficient. Having everything managed under one roof, from installation to servicing, has been a real benefit to us.” Marie Burbage - Manager


Preserving the Past, Preparing for the Future

As a museum celebrating the legacy of Erasmus Darwin, it was essential that any work undertaken respected the building’s historical significance. Harnce Plumbing & Heating’s expertise ensured that the upgrade was not only effective but also sympathetic to the heritage of the property.


Erasmus Darwin House continues to welcome visitors, now with a more reliable and energy-efficient heating system, ensuring the comfort of guests while preserving an important piece of history.


By Tina Hart Preto October 6, 2025
An annual boiler service is so much more than just a tick box – it’s an essential household maintenance task, and there’s never been a better time to book in to get it done! The autumn months are the ideal time to have your boiler serviced as it ensures that your system is running safety and efficiently ahead of the colder months, which helps prevent a heating breakdown when you most need a warm home. September/October is also a great time as it beats the winter rush for busy engineers, and can also help keep your energy costs down as your boiler and heating system will be running at its maximum efficiency. At Harnce Heating and Plumbing, we’re only ever a phone call away and our team of dedicated, gas certified engineers are committed to ensuring your home is safe, warm and as cost effective as it can possibly be. Signs You Need A Boiler Service: Radiators are taking longer to heat up or not getting up to temperature Boiler is making funny noises Low system pressure Boiler pilot light goes out frequently Boiler locking out or showing fault codes on panel You’ve moved into a new property and don’t know the last service date It has been 12 months or longer since your last boiler service Whether you require a one-off service, or regular maintenance through our popular Members’ Club subscription, Harnce is always on-hand to help. Contact the office on 01543 330 555 or book online via the website www.harnce.co.uk. Find out more about our Members’ Club benefits at www.harnce.co.uk/membersclub .
By Tina Hart Preto June 19, 2025
As a community focused business, we love working with exceptional local talent and supporting other family businesses, like ourselves.
By Tina Hart Preto May 30, 2025
As a community focused business, we love working with exceptional local talent and supporting charities wanting to good for our community 
Photo of a burst pipe.
By Tina Hart Preto May 8, 2025
Plumbing and heating issues always strike at the worst times. Here’s how HARNCE helps you stay calm, confident, and covered—no matter when it happens.
By Tina Hart Preto April 23, 2025
Looking for a reliable roofer? Meet Malcolm from MB Roofing—our go-to expert for roof repairs, flue installations, and more. Trusted by HARNCE.
By Tina Hart Preto April 11, 2025
At HARNCE, we have an enviable reputation for our experience in working with historic buildings. From churches to farmhouses, to museums and county buildings we specialise in heating solutions for homes and community buildings with heritage and heart. With these properties, many have heating systems which are larger than your regular domestic building, so our team have the expertise to maintain and install commercial-sized systems as well as smaller domestic boilers.
By Tina Hart Preto April 11, 2025
Client: Derby New Church – Established 1938
By Tina Hart Preto April 11, 2025
Client: The Priory Church of St Mary, Tutbury – Consecrated in AD 1089
By Tina Hart Preto March 27, 2025
The Renters' Rights Bill (April 2025) brings big changes for landlords, including stricter property standards and faster repairs. Stay compliant with HARNCE’s expert heating and plumbing support.
By Tina Hart Preto March 21, 2025
As a community focused business, we love working with exceptional local talent and supporting other family businesses, like ourselves.