Batch heating retrofits without tenants having to move out – efficient, flexible, future-proof

 

With the X-Hub, Dimplex offers a pre-installed, compact energy centre for heating and hot water, specifically designed for apartment blocks, batch retrofit projects, local heating networks and neighbourhood solutions. The modular design combines state-of-the-art heat pump technology, maximum flexibility and the highest level of planning reliability – with minimal disruption to the building. Residents can remain in their homes during the renovation. For planners, the X-Hub simplifies complex modernisation processes into clear, standardised and modularly expandable components with clear interfaces, short construction times and high cost certainty.

Why the X-Hub? – The challenges of modern heating system upgrades

Around 80% of energy costs in apartment buildings are attributable to heat generation. At the same time, cramped utility rooms, sound insulation requirements, legal regulations and a shortage of skilled workers make modernisation difficult. In many cases, temporary eviction is even necessary, leading to high planning and project risks.
With traditional solutions, lengthy planning phases and building interventions are unavoidable – often including temporary eviction.
This is precisely where the X-Hub comes in: prefabricated, space-saving, quick to install and perfectly suited to demanding renovation projects. 

Ideal for:

- Housing associations

- Local authority developers

- Private owners’ associations

- Neighbourhood and local heating solutions

- Large-scale renovation projects (without evicting tenants)

The solution: the X-Hub as a central heating and hot water control unit

The X-Hub combines all components of modern building services engineering in a pre-configured energy centre:

  • Hydraulic module
  • Compact, container-like unit
  • Includes buffer tank, heat exchanger, heating water manifold, pumps and control system
  • LAN connection for online monitoring / BMS
  • Customisable façade design options (sheet steel, timber, etc. Optionally available with timber cladding in accordance with the EU Deforestation Regulation)

Power modules

  • Can be fitted with various Dimplex heat pumps (R290 or R407C)
  • Scalable for heating loads from 30 to 500 kW
  • Pre-piped for minimal effort on site

Flexible installation options

  • Outdoor installation
  • Roof installation – ideal for saving space
  • Optimised acoustics for residential areas 

Maximum efficiency & low running costs
Perfectly coordinated system hydraulics and state-of-the-art heat pump technology ensure consistently low running costs – even in existing buildings with radiators

Modular and expandable
The heating output can be tailored to specific projects – ideal for new builds, existing properties and large-scale refurbishments

Quick installation – minimal disruption
A high degree of prefabrication reduces planning and coordination efforts on site
Clear separation of trades and short installation times ensure predictable projects with minimal disruption to residents.
No need to vacate the property

No need to vacate the property
The entire renovation takes place outside the residential units
Installation outside the residential units minimises project risks
For planners, this significantly reduces coordination processes with owners and property management companies

Flexibility in installation & architecture
Outdoor or roof installation possible – ideal where technical spaces are lacking
Sound-optimised components for densely populated residential areas
Facade designs adaptable depending on the project
Choice of modern wood-effect or metal cladding

Planning and cost certainty thanks to high degree of prefabrication
All key components are pre-installed at the factory
Minimal planning effort required for coordination between trades
Clearly defined interfaces, reduced project complexity

Rapid implementation & minimal construction times
Shorter installation times thanks to complete prefabrication
Minimal disruption to existing buildings
Projects stay on schedule and require less site coordination

Planning, commissioning & service – all from a single source

Dimplex supports projects from planning through to operation:

Planning & commissioning

  • Technical advice
  • Project support
  • Commissioning by qualified service personnel
  • Training, test run & optimisation for maximum efficiency

Service & maintenance

  • Digital or on-site maintenance
  • Customised service packages
  • Long service life thanks to regular maintenance
  • Rapid repair processes

Conclusion: Future-proof heating supply in apartment blocks

 

The X-Hub makes heating modernisation in apartment blocks more efficient, faster and easier to plan.

For planners, the X-Hub offers a clearly structured, low-risk and modular solution for heating refurbishment and modernisation:

  • standardised – scalable – quick to integrate
  • reduces planning effort and interfaces
  • guarantees high energy efficiency and operational reliability
  • ideal for serial refurbishments without building interventions

It reduces project costs, avoids building interventions and enables heating refurbishment without tenants having to move out. This makes it the ideal energy centre for modern residential buildings, serial refurbishments and sustainable neighbourhood solutions.

The X-Hub offers planners a future-proof, modular and cost-effective solution for heating modernisation in multi-family dwellings.

Ideal for projects where time, space, efficiency and planning reliability are crucial.

FAQs

The X-Hub is suitable for apartment blocks, block-of-flats refurbishments, new-builds, local heating networks and neighbourhood solutions. Thanks to its modular design and heating capacities ranging from approximately 30 to 500 kW, the system can be flexibly adapted to different building types and project requirements.

Yes. The X-Hub is installed as a pre-installed unit outside the residential units. This means that only minimal work is required on the building, and the upgrade can be carried out without the need to evict tenants.

Planners benefit from a high degree of planning reliability, clear interfaces, rapid installation thanks to a high level of prefabrication, flexible installation options and optimally coordinated system hydraulics. This reduces complexity, planning effort and project costs.

The X-Hub can be installed outdoors or on the roof. This creates additional usable or lettable space and makes it easier to integrate into existing buildings. Sound-optimised components allow it to be used in residential areas.

The power modules can be fitted with various Dimplex heat pump models – either using R290 (a natural refrigerant) or R407C. This ensures that the system remains flexible to accommodate different thermal requirements and operating conditions. 

Dimplex supports planners every step of the way, from technical advice and project design right through to commissioning. Qualified service staff carry out training, test runs and system optimisation. Maintenance can be carried out remotely or on-site.

Yes. Projects using the X-Hub benefit from attractive government funding schemes. In addition, a bonus is available for large-scale refurbishment projects.

The X-Hub is equipped with noise-optimised heat pumps and hydraulic components, making it ideally suited for use in densely populated residential areas.