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RETROFIT IN HVAC


A framework for effective retrofit


Tom Garrigan, BSRIA Director – Applied Engineer, explores how an effective retrofit strategy will deliver upgraded buildings that are future-ready


A


s global temperatures rise, overheating is becoming an urgent concern in our buildings. While heating systems remain essential, the


increasing demand for cooling, often electrically driven, introduces new challenges. Without strategic planning, these systems risk inflating energy use, straining the National Grid even further, and driving up costs for consumers. Effective retrofitting offers a way forward, but


only when underpinned by accurate assessments and rigorous execution. Yet our recent research reveals troubling gaps in professional practice. Alarmingly, half of construction professionals rely on self-certification to validate retrofit outcomes, bypassing independent verification. Even more concerning, only 40% employ


objective physical measurements, though usage is higher among architects (46%) and engineers (44%), where confidence in retrofit measures is greater. Furthermore, just one in three carry out post-occupancy evaluations, missing vital feedback on real-world performance. Firms that do routinely evaluate post-occupancy report over 70% confidence in outcomes, a clear link between data- led approaches and successful retrofit delivery.


Closing the training gap


This shortfall in best practice links directly to a broader training deficit. Our 2024 sector survey found that half of construction professionals consider current retrofit training inadequate. This lack of knowledge can lead to fundamental misconceptions. For example, one in four professionals mistakenly believe that new builds are as environmentally friendly as retrofits, overlooking the substantial resource and emissions costs associated with new construction. The result? An assumption based culture that can


lead to wasted investments, modest energy savings, and underwhelming occupant comfort. To change this, the sector must prioritise real-life performance verification, embed post-occupancy evaluation, and ensure training is comprehensive and continuous. Only then can retrofit outcomes align with the energy and environmental metrics that matter.


Embracing tech


This also ties into the need for more rigorous assessments and training in retrofitting, the conversation naturally turns to the transformative role of technology in enhancing outcomes. While much of the industry’s attention has


traditionally focused on physical upgrades, the integration of digital tools is proving to be a game- changer. Correctly used, technology now enables smarter, more precise optimisation of building performance and is helping bridge the gap between design, implementation, and operation.


One significant advancement is the adoption of cloud-based platforms, that consolidate data from various operational systems, including HVAC, lighting, and security. This integration facilitates real-time analysis and automation, granting building owners unprecedented visibility into inefficiencies and enabling proactive performance management. For example, optimising HVAC runtimes alone can reduce carbon emissions by up to 30%.


The holistic path forward


Above all, effective retrofit demands a joined-up approach. Tackling challenges in isolation will not deliver buildings that are fit for today or the future. A successful strategy spans the full lifecycle - from improving airtightness, reducing heat loss and implementing a controlled ventilation strategy to introducing low-carbon systems and smarter water management. However, it also requires understanding the human element. Even the best-engineered solutions can fall short if we fail to consider how people use buildings. A “measure and manage” philosophy, grounded in detailed assessments and continuous monitoring, helps ensure that interventions not only cut carbon but improve comfort and wellbeing. Decarbonising the built environment is a


complex challenge, but it’s achievable with the right mindset, methods, and momentum. Retrofitting isn’t just about ticking a net-zero box. It’s about creating buildings that perform economically, environmentally, and socially in a fast-changing climate. A results-driven approach, combining better


training, smarter tech, and rigorous evaluation, must be the foundation of our retrofit strategy. Done right, it will deliver buildings that are not just upgraded, but future-ready.


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