HEAT PUMPS HVAC in harmony


Commercial buildings need a wide range of HVAC solutions to achieve decarbonisation targets, but managing multiple systems creates complexity and increases the risk of operational errors. Tim Mitchell from Klima Therm explains how advanced building controls are integrating low-carbon systems to ensure harmonious operation, maximising energy effi ciency while simplifying maintenance practices.


I Tim Mitchell


Thanks to dedicated algorithms, it can manage cooling and thermal loads in a stable and precise manner.


magine if there were a single technology capable of switching every commercial building in the UK from fossil fuels to low-carbon energy – how simple it would be! But as


we all know, no such silver bullet exists. Instead, commercial buildings are adopting a diverse range of low-carbon HVAC solutions, including high-temperature heat pumps, polyvalent heat pumps, MVHR, and more, to meet their sustainability targets.


The challenge lies in integrating these diff erent technologies


to ensure they are working eff ectively together. The complexity of retrofi tting multiple systems means that, without proper coordination, buildings risk poor performance, increased energy consumption and operational ineffi ciencies that can undermine the original goal.


Conducting the HVAC ‘orchestra’ We can’t rely on a single technology, but we can bring multiple technologies under the same intelligent management system. These advanced controls act as the conductor of an orchestra, ensuring each element plays its role at the right time to create harmonious operation between cooling and thermal loads. Multi-technology control systems simplify complex HVAC integration with easy confi guration, BMS compatibility and remote monitoring capabilities, making real-time decisions about which units to operate based on current conditions. For example, when outdoor conditions are favourable, the system might prioritise free cooling options over mechanical refrigeration. During peak demand periods, it can determine the optimal combination of units to meet thermal loads while


minimising energy consumption. This intelligent decision- making process happens continuously, adapting to changing conditions throughout the day, month and season, meeting the growing demand for intuitive, high-effi ciency HVAC control solutions.


Smart sequencing Integrated sequencing capability directs the optimal start-up sequence, maximising energy effi ciency and thus boosting environmental performance. Thanks to dedicated algorithms, it can manage cooling and thermal loads in a stable and precise manner.


Sequencers can embrace a wide range of diff erent technologies, including chillers, heat pumps and multipurpose polyvalent (four-pipe) units. In addition to managing homogeneous units, it is possible, for example, to combine multi-purpose units with chillers or heat pumps in diff erent sizes and versions, a versatility that bolsters environmental credentials.


Variable fl ow A signifi cant advantage of system integration is the ability to operate variable primary fl ow (VPF) systems. Unlike traditional constant fl ow arrangements, VPF allows cooling and heating systems to operate at fl exible fl ow rates that match demand, an approach that off ers substantial benefi ts for medium and large- scale commercial applications. By varying pump speeds and fl ow rates according to real-


time requirements, VPF systems can achieve signifi cant energy savings, contributing to sustainable operation and delivering substantial cost savings for building operators.


User-friendly operation Despite their sophisticated capability, modern HVAC management interfaces are designed with simplicity in mind. Operators can interact with complex multi-technology systems through intuitive graphic interfaces, whether standard displays or touchscreen controls, which off er clear visualisation of system status, operating parameters, and any alerts that require attention.


Advanced controllers can integrate with existing Building Management Systems (BMS) through standard protocols such as Modbus or BACnet, ensuring compatibility that allows new


26 July 2025 • www.acr-news.com Download the ACR News app today


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