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HEATING, VENTILATION & SERVICES
End user comfort is about more than just the average air temperature
better when the system ran continuously, further highlighting its effi ciency in real world conditions. However, end user comfort is about more than just the average air temperature; there must also be a focus on the time it takes a system to reach that temperature, heat loss during off periods, and overall running costs. All these factors impact the homeowner and occupier’s experience. A system that costs less to run but is slow to warm up isn’t performing well if comfort is only achieved late in the day.
Data from the Energy House 2.0 report shows that underfl oor heating (UFH) delivers the most consistent comfort and effi cient performance. Any negative cost differences are quickly outweighed when the achieved room temperatures and the additional running time required by alternative systems are taken into account. In addition, as radiant heat is distributed evenly across the fl oor, it eliminates cold spots where mould might develop. This
consistent warmth helps regulate humidity, reducing the risk of condensation and, thus, improving indoor air quality.
Powerful partnerships As the long-awaited Future Homes Standard draws near, and regulations continue to evolve, the time is now for proactive system design, forward thinking specifi cations and close collaboration with suppliers capable of delivering fully compliant, low-carbon heating solutions with complete regulatory assurance. Good heating isn’t just about warmth. It needs to fi t seamlessly into layouts, avoid hot and cold spots, and keep spaces evenly heated. Upfront savings can be misleading if energy bills and occupant comfort suffer. And true comfort comes from systems that heat effi ciently, retain warmth, and distribute it consistently throughout a home. Hydronic underfl oor heating ticks all these boxes, offering a future-ready solution that works for both today’s regulations and tomorrow’s expectations.
Ashley Cooper is managing director at WMS Underfl oor Heating
Smart cooling for smarter schools
I
n Lübeck, Germany, the Baltic School underwent a major renovation to accommodate 1,060 pupils in a modern,
energy-effi cient environment. The upgrade included triple-glazed windows, high-grade insulation, and advanced building services – laying the groundwork for a comfortable indoor climate year-round.
Passive cooling with a secure twist While insulation simplifi es winter heating, it complicates summer cooling. To tackle this, venetian blinds were installed on the south-
facing facades to reduce solar gain. At night, when temperatures drop, classrooms are cooled via Renson’s 431 RC2 wall louvres – an elegant, secure solution that allows fresh air in while keeping insects and intruders out.
Design meets durability
Behind each louvre lies a standard window, discreetly operable from the inside. The RC2 classifi cation ensures resistance against forced entry using tools like screwdrivers or pliers. Each louvre unit comprises tightly riveted blade packs, tested to withstand heavy
rain and storms – guaranteeing ventilation without moisture ingress.
Effi cient ventilation, thoughtfully placed With a free airfl ow of 40.5%, the louvres provide effective cross-ventilation. Two units per classroom, placed diagonally,
ensure
optimal air circulation. The entire €7 million project was funded by the Lübeck Possehl Foundation and executed by the city’s building management.
www.renson.net
WWW.ARCHITECTSDATAFILE.CO.UK
ADF NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025
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