HVAC THE ROLE OF RETROFIT


As we work towards achieving our 2050 net zero target, we mustn’t neglect the current opportunities to reduce energy consumption from heat in buildings, suggests Baxi Heating’s Key Account Director Neville Small.


For businesses and organisations looking to scale up decarbonisation activities in their buildings, the heating and hot water service is a clear target for action. With over a third of UK emissions coming from heat in buildings, tackling this sector is central to meeting the nation’s net zero goal by 2050.


Whilst great strides have been made in new buildings that are designed to require less heat, finding suitable solutions to meet the requirements in the UK’s older buildings is a greater challenge.


To help FMs reduce emissions associated with heat in older buildings, manufacturers are busy innovating with longer- term technologies and techniques. The feasibility of repurposing the existing gas grid to transport green gas is also being explored by ourselves and others to offer a low disruption solution towards decarbonising our older building stock.


However, while we actively prepare for the future, it’s important not to neglect the present opportunities to reduce energy consumption and emissions associated with heating and hot water generation. Energy efficiency is, after all, a key part of the transition to carbon neutrality.


useful as this will demonstrate manufacturer confidence in the long-term reliability of their products.


Ease of future maintenance, servicing and part replacement should also be considered from the outset. This will lower maintenance costs and help ensure that the plant continues to run at peak performance.


Efficient by design Good manufacturers will also offer solutions that not only reduce installation time and minimise disruption but also maximise long-term efficiency. The opportunity to install multiple boilers on site-assembled manufacturer cascade systems or provide offsite fabricated, bespoke-designed rigs and cascade arrangements, is a case in point.


“Replacing any ageing or inefficient


boilers with high efficiency condensing boilers and adding the appropriate


Given that reliance on ageing and inefficient heating plant causes avoidable energy waste in numerous buildings, retrofit remains one of the most cost-effective means of driving down energy demand and usage. As such, it has a vital role to play in helping FMs meet sustainability targets and reduce running costs.


controls, has the potential to transform the energy performance of a building.”


The configuration increases the turndown ratio of the boilers and improves their modulation capability, whilst providing in-built redundancy for greater reliability. The requirement for ease of maintenance is also met as the boilers are easier to isolate, remove and replace, reducing labour and downtime. Further, as the boilers are identical models, only one service kit is required for further cost savings.


Value-added support The level of support offered by


manufacturers should also be assessed to ensure ongoing high performance from heating


products. Good manufacturers and suppliers will


provide technical advice and support at every stage of the project – from design and commissioning, to installation and maintenance.


Replacing any ageing or inefficient boilers with high efficiency condensing boilers, for example, and adding the appropriate controls, has the potential to transform the energy performance of a building – potentially halving gas usage.


Moreover, with many manufacturers reporting near maximum efficiencies from modern condensing boilers and water heaters, the focus for FMs should now be on ensuring high performance throughout the lifetime of the equipment.


Focus on lifetime reliability So, how do we guarantee that the best result is achieved? A good starting point for FMs is to identify robust, quality products from brands with a proven reputation for ongoing high performance. Checking the length of warranty is also


36 | TOMORROW’S FM


Finally, it’s worth noting that, when recommending various pieces of equipment, such as boilers and water heaters, using one trusted supplier will simplify delivery and avoid potential delays to the project.


Addressing the efficiency of the heating and hot water service should be a priority in every building to drive down energy consumption and costs while maintaining the high comfort levels associated with improved productivity.


With good manufacturers supporting high quality, reliable solutions and expert support and advice to achieve top operational performance, there’s surely no better time for FMs to tackle the quick wins.


www.remeha.co.uk twitter.com/TomorrowsFM


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