West Midlands Safari Park required a heating upgrade for its elephant enclosure, aiming to maintain a consistent indoor temperature of 21°C. The existing electric heaters were unable to meet demand, prompting a full system upgrade with a focus on energy efficiency, animal welfare, and safe heating for large enclosures. The project was carried out with Mark Tissiman of MT Heating.

Project Requirements

  • Deliver reliable temperature control for a wildlife facility housing elephants over 6 metres high and weighing over 5 tonnes

  • Position all heating components safely out of reach of animals and staff

  • Minimise disruption to daily operations during installation

  • Improve heat distribution across varied terrain, including elevated sand flooring

Solution Delivered

Reznor supplied and supported the installation of a heating solution featuring:

  • 2 × 90kW oil-fired Reznor COMET+ cabinet heaters, with high-level ducting for overhead heat delivery

  • Reznor DS4-4 destratification fans, to recirculate warm air from ceiling level to ground level

The existing electric heaters were retained but disconnected due to inefficiency. Ducting and outlets were installed above elephant reach, and Smartcom control systems were positioned externally for safe operation.

Installation Highlights

  • The enclosure floor included 1 metre of sand, requiring specialist access equipment and coordination

  • Elephants remained outdoors during the day, allowing installation to proceed without disruption

  • No animals were disturbed during the process

Results

The upgraded system maintains the required temperature throughout the enclosure during colder months. The destratification fans have improved heat circulation, reduced energy consumption, and increased comfort at ground level.

Client Feedback

Mark Tissiman, mechanical engineer and director of MT Heating, praised the free site survey, prompt quotation, and delivery process, with animal welfare remaining the central priority throughout the project.