Family Run Business Award Nomination

Family Run Business Award Nomination – Vital Heating Solutions

Vital Heating Solutions is a family-run business based in Lancashire. It is built on strong values, community spirit, and a deep commitment to innovation and sustainability. Founded and led by David Heap, the company has grown into a multi-million-pound enterprise. Known for its customer-first approach, environmental leadership, and meaningful social impact.

This article explores why Vital Heating Solutions has been nominated for the Family Run Business Award. It reveals how the company has combined technical expertise, community care, and sustainable thinking. This drive real results across the region—especially in education, commercial property, and local government sectors.

A Lancashire Story Rooted in Family Values

Vital Heating Solutions was born out of a simple idea. Heating homes and buildings shouldn’t come at the cost of people or the planet. With David Heap at the helm, the company has remained true to its roots while evolving to meet the changing demands of customers and climate responsibility.

As a family-run business, every decision is made with long-term relationships in mind. This philosophy runs through everything—from how staff are trained and treated, to how customers are supported before, during, and after a project. David leads by example, often involved in site visits and customer follow-ups himself.

Staff retention is high, with apprentices regularly progressing into leadership roles. The company culture supports development, wellbeing, and trust. This culture isn’t manufactured—it’s natural, built on the belief that when people feel valued, they do their best work.

Strong Growth Grounded in Integrity

From humble beginnings, Vital Heating Solutions has developed into a thriving and resilient enterprise, recognised for its steady and sustainable growth over the years. This progress hasn’t been the result of overnight success, but rather a reflection of consistent hard work, ethical leadership, and a commitment to doing things the right way.

The company has expanded its operations, strengthened its team, and increased its impact across Lancashire—building strong client relationships and a trusted reputation in the process. Each step forward has been carefully planned, with every milestone grounded in the same values that shaped the business from day one.

This isn’t growth for growth’s sake. Every expansion, hire, and service offering is built on customer need and long-term strategy. Unlike competitors who may overpromise and underdeliver, David’s approach is careful, calculated, and honest.

He champions long-term, energy-efficient solutions that protect customers from fuel poverty. By taking the time to educate and guide each client, he ensures they make informed choices that deliver real value. This commitment to doing what’s right—not just what’s easy—is a defining quality of Vital Heating Solutions.

Helping Lancashire Achieve Net Zero

At the heart of Vital Heating Solutions is a passion for sustainability. David believes that businesses should lead the way in fighting climate change—and that energy efficiency isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity.

His ‘fabric first’ philosophy means addressing a building’s insulation, ventilation, and structure before recommending new heating systems. This ensures lower running costs, improved performance, and greater comfort.

The results speak for themselves. The company has helped over 30 schools in Lancashire reduce energy bills by an average of 60%. That’s real, measurable impact—and it’s freeing up vital funds to be reinvested into education.

Many of these schools have been able to upgrade classrooms, offer more student support, and enhance learning environments thanks to energy savings achieved with Vital’s help.

Innovation That Drives Results

Innovation isn’t a buzzword at Vital Heating Solutions—it’s part of daily operations. David has personally designed bespoke Building Management Systems (BMS) that help schools, care homes, and commercial properties manage energy usage automatically.

These systems monitor temperature, occupancy, and usage patterns in real-time. They adjust settings to maximise comfort while minimising waste. The technology is simple to use and provides instant insights, saving clients time and money.

The BMS design is always bespoke to the client’s building and objectives. This level of precision means clients only pay for what they need—no more, no less.

In addition to technical systems, the company’s reporting tools provide detailed energy audits and carbon footprint assessments. This gives clients the data they need to make smart energy decisions.

Creating Opportunities for the Next Generation

As a family-run business, Vital Heating Solutions sees its role not just as a service provider, but as a mentor, educator, and employer. David and his team actively support apprenticeships and work placements, focusing on underrepresented groups and those who need a second chance.

Many young people have built lasting careers with Vital. Several apprentices have been with the company for over a decade, growing into technical leads and project managers.

This commitment to nurturing talent has been recognised in regional awards and industry circles, with David personally mentoring newcomers to the sector. It’s part of the wider family culture—building not just a business, but a legacy.

Putting People First – Customers and Community

Vital Heating Solutions doesn’t just install heating systems—it builds trust. Every customer is treated like family, with transparency at the core of every project.

From residential clients needing new boilers to large institutions embarking on energy overhauls, the team provides honest advice, clear pricing, and thoughtful aftercare.

The business also gives back to the community. Vital Heating Solutions regularly donates services and equipment to local charities, supports fundraising efforts, and sponsors community events.

This year, they are the headline sponsor of the Lancashire Net Zero Carbon Conference—showing their commitment not just to business growth, but to regional leadership. David Heap will also be a featured speaker at the conference, taking place on 18th June 2025 at Crow Wood Hotel & Spa Resort, Burnley. His session will highlight the role of fabric-first design and energy data in achieving sustainable, long-term change.

A Culture of Resilience and Responsibility

Family-run businesses often face unique challenges—balancing growth with personal commitments, managing close-knit teams, and maintaining consistent values through scaling.

Vital Heating Solutions has navigated these challenges with resilience and maturity. Their ability to grow while keeping their culture intact is a major reason for their nomination.

Even during challenging times and shifts in the energy landscape, the business remained focused on supporting customers, prioritising staff wellbeing, and continuing to invest in innovation and long-term solutions.

Why This Nomination Matters

Being nominated for the Family Run Business Award isn’t just a recognition of past success—it’s a celebration of how Vital Heating Solutions continues to lead with heart, purpose, and professionalism.

In an industry often dominated by cost-cutting and short-term gains, this company has chosen a different path. A path built on people, planet, and performance.

Looking Ahead

Vital Heating Solutions is already preparing for the next stage of growth. Plans are underway to expand services across the UK and develop new technologies that support carbon reduction.

The business will continue to champion fabric-first principles, invest in skills, and push the boundaries of what a heating company can be.

Whether it’s cutting carbon, improving comfort, or creating careers—Vital Heating Solutions is proving that being family-run doesn’t mean thinking small. It means thinking long-term.

Conclusion

Vital Heating Solutions is more than just a heating company. It’s a story of local pride, leadership, and impact.

David Heap’s vision, backed by a dedicated team, has created a business that delivers for customers, invests in people, and makes a real difference to the environment.

The Family Run Business Award nomination is well-earned—and it’s only the beginning.

If you’re ready to partner with a business that puts values first and delivers results that last, contact Vital Heating Solutions today.

Let’s build a warmer, greener future—together.