With energy prices remaining stubbornly high and pressure mounting from planning regulations, heat recovery has become more than just a buzzword in poultry farming, it’s a necessity. But not all heat exchangers deliver on their promises. In fact, many end up shifting costs rather than reducing them. At EcoCooling, we’ve spent years looking closely at the real-world challenges poultry farmers face when it comes to heating and ventilation. This insight has shaped our latest innovation: the ECHX heat recovery unit has been designed and built right here in the UK to cut energy costs in broiler houses and address the problems that traditional heat exchange systems often ignore.

Why Most Heat Exchangers Fall Short

Let’s be honest, a lot of heat recovery systems look good on paper, but they struggle to deliver real savings. The majority depend on oversized fans and complex control systems that draw a lot of electricity. That’s a red flag when you consider that electricity costs around four times as much per kWh as gas.

So, while you might save on gas, you’re often paying just as much, or even more, on electricity. That’s not energy efficiency; that’s just cost swapping.

Then, there’s the issue of installation; many of the traditional systems are bulky and awkward to fit between poultry sheds. Mounting them on gable ends isn’t always practical, and their delicate internal components don’t hold up well under high-pressure washing, something that’s routine in broiler operations.

Cut Energy Costs in Broiler Houses with the ECHX Unit

We designed the ECHX to tackle all these pain points head-on. It’s compact, robust, and built specifically for poultry farms.

Here’s what sets it apart:

  • Gas savings of up to 60%
  • 5–6 year payback period
  • Total installed cost is around half that of main competitors
  • Supplied as a complete package (it’s DIY-friendly for those with basic building skills)

The unit itself is made entirely of stainless steel and measures just 2m x 2m. Its compact, plinth-style design means it fits easily between sheds, and it’s light enough to be installed with a standard telehandler, so no need for expensive cranes.

When it comes to cleaning, the ECHX is also built to withstand pressure washing, so you can clean it just like the rest of your equipment.

Boost Welfare in Broiler Houses Too

Heat recovery isn’t just about saving money, it’s also about improving bird welfare. Better air distribution helps maintain drier litter, which cuts down ammonia levels and supports healthier flocks overall.

ECHX Features at a Glance

  • Variable speed EC fans for efficient airflow control
  • Variable speed stirrer fans for even house conditions
  • Multiple installation options – side or top supply/extract ducts, wall or gable end mounting
  • Flexible control options – manual, integrated, or smart automation
  • Optional custom colour coating to meet planning or aesthetic requirements

Whether you’re looking to cut energy costs in broiler houses, hit sustainability targets, or just improve conditions for your birds, the ECHX offers a practical, British-built solution that delivers where it counts. It’s time to rethink heat recovery, on your terms.

To learn more about the ECHX or get a quote, visit our contact us page.