Latest statistics show that almost one million of us are aiming to downshift by 2006* and move into the country full time. But this increasing trend for rural escapism, known as ‘urban country chic’**, doesn’t mean downshifting in every sense as new escapees still expect sophistication and style in abundance.

However, Calor Country Living is urging us to match this cool country style with a focus on the practicalities of country living. Your barn conversion or nineteenth century cottage might boast the latest design trends, but it needs to deliver the comforts of the twenty-first century too.

Calor domestic market manager, Andrea Price explains:

“Old mills, barns and chapels may be highly attractive for their architectural design and, in certain parts of the country, for their initial price tag. But with many lacking some or even all of the ‘mod cons’ of decent electrics, central heating, sewage disposal and water supply, you’ll need a lot more knowledge than a couple of episodes of Grand Designs under your belt.

“Careful planning and insight is required to ensure the project doesn’t become a money pit and that your home is also capable of supporting all those country cool accessories on your wish-list, from the wall-mounted contemporary gas fireplace, to the stainless steel rangemaster oven and a top-of-the range underfloor heating system. It’s all about making your escape to the greenbelt, a ‘Smart Escape’.”

With over two million homes in Britain situated off mains gas, especially those in the rural retreat hotspots of the South West and East Anglia, househunters venturing off the beaten track can find their dream home does not come with their preferred source of fuel, making the choice of an effective heating system a key consideration.

So when a home is off the mains gas supply, what should a homeowner opt for, what is LPG and what benefits can it bring?

Andrea continues: “We have created a Calor Country Living brochure to make that heating decision a whole lot easier to understand. The pack is full of vital information, tips and advice and is invaluable to homeseekers and relocators who are looking to move, or have just purchased a property on Calor LPG (liquefied petroleum gas). A large proportion of homeowners are unaware that Calor LPG can provide all the comforts and benefits provided by a mains gas supply, from the controllability of a gas hob, to the comfort of a real flame fire.”

Storage Options

Stored in liquid form in a tank, either above or below ground level or in cylinders adjacent to the house, Calor gas is delivered direct to homes, exactly when it is required thanks to The Think Tank^®, a new technology being incorporated across new above or below tank installations, subject to a site survey.***

That Calor LPG tanks can be installed below ground is a key benefit for those concerned about the aesthetics of their home, or who might be making sales decisions based on a garden or external character. And unlike other alternative fuels, the fact that a Calor LPG installation does not require a large flue which can impact both financially and visually, particularly in a listed or protected building, also further ensures any visual impact is minimised.

Maintenance

In addition, Calor LPG tanks are maintained and insured by Calor and have very safe cut off systems. Calor’s delivery men, as well as being highly skilled drivers, are also qualified to carry out a range of important safety and maintenance checks. So if a fault is detected during a tank filling, the driver can often sort it all out on the spot thanks to the stock of approved spares such as gauges, tank hoods, padlocks and labels which they carry. If there is a minor fault that cannot be sorted immediately, Calor will turn to a CORGI-registered Calor-approved contractor to carry out the necessary work.

Calor Country Living Brochure

To obtain copies of the brochure which explains all the benefits of LPG in more detail, please contact Calor Country Living on 0800 121 4461 or visit www.calor-country-living.co.uk. Copies of the new Calor Country Living Collection brochure featuring a range of cookers and fires including leading brands such as AGA, Electrolux and Valor, can also be obtained on this 0800 number. Alternatively, click here to order online.

Note to Editors:

Sources:
* The Prudential
** Elle Deco, February

*** The Think Tank^®is only available with an above or below ground tank, on new installations and is subject to a site survey.

Click here to download this press release in Word format

IIssued on behalf of Calor by Bright, 10 St Catherine’s Court, Herbert Road, Solihull, West Midlands, B91 3QE For further information please contact Leona Abson/Michelle Simpson/Victoria Crowe at Bright on Tel: +44 (0) 121 711 5000 Fax: +44 (0) 121 711 5001 or Email: leona@bright-consultancy.co.uk

Ref: DCH108C
Released: May 2004