SUSTAINABLE RETROFIT FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
OF THE RETROFIT APPROACH
However, space for underfloor heating or large radiators, and a hot water tank, will be needed. Many spaces are already suitable, or can easily
be made appropriate for, the installation of an air source heat pump. In addition, they require less maintenance work than the average gas boiler. Insulation is another retrofit solution which
is used to reduce heat loss, applicable to any external surface. There are several areas in the home where you can improve insulation – including internal, external or cavity walls, as well as under floors or in the loft. Replacing single or old double glazing with newer double or triple glazing also helps to reduce heat loss and draughts. It is best to consider this alongside solid wall insulation as the installation can be designed to minimise heat loss through ‘thermal bridging’ and will likely cost less overall. However, double or triple glazing may not be possible for certain properties such as listed buildings or those in a conservation area. Installing a Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) system will help to provide fresh air into the home, whilst retaining heat from the outgoing stale air. It works by extracting warm and moist air from wet rooms, like bathrooms and kitchens, passing it through a heat exchanger to capture the heat, and then using that heat to warm incoming fresh air
and distribute it into the living areas of the home. The advantages of MVHR are improved air quality, low running costs, energy efficiency, and year round comfort. Ultimately, every building is unique, so the recommended measures will vary for each property. However, there is a retrofit solution for every
home. Retrofitting not only helps homeowners reduce their household bills and improve the comfort of their home, but it is also the solution to achieving a more sustainable future.
Ecofurb
ecofurb.com
“Retrofitting doesn’t have to be expensive. Many homes don’t
need to spending thousands of pounds on work to start seeing benefits. Small, targeted upgrades, like loft insulation, draught-proofing and re-caulking doors and windows, or installing a smart thermostat, can reduce energy bills and improve home comfort”
* Russell Smith is the founder and Managing Director of Ecofurb, a service dedicated to providing impartial, personalised, advice on home energy efficiency retrofits. Russell retrofitted his home over
20 years ago, at a time when it wasn’t as commonplace as it is now. The work included external wall insulation, loft insulation, new windows and doors, and the introductions of an air source heat pump. As a trained engineer, Russell carried out his own heat loss calculations and cost-benefit modelling, and it is this knowledge and experience that eventually led to the idea for Ecofurb.
TECHNOLOGY IN ACTION - ADVERTORIAL
Qvantum empowers the future energy leaders with Young Energy Ambassadors program
Qvantum, a leading Swedish heat pump manufacturer, has introduced the Young Energy Ambassadors program to foster the next generation of energy leaders. This initiative will provide young individuals with opportunities to learn about energy policy and the heating and cooling sector. In return the company gets help with scouting new innovations.
Participants will gain hands-on experience in smart energy solutions, working closely with industry experts. They will attend conferences and events such as ISH 2025 and EU Sustainable Energy Week, together with Qvantum experts, helping them to develop practical skills and professional connections.
www.essmag.co.uk
“We believe empowering young minds is essential for the future of energy,” said Thomas Nowak, Vice President of Public Relations and Government Affairs. “The Young Energy Ambassadors will learn from Qvantum experts and bring a fresh perspective to our view of the world. It’s a mutual gain and essential to move forward fast in the energy transition.”
Qvantum is excited to embark on this journey and looks forward to the innovative contributions from the Young Energy Ambassadors. The next Young Energy Ambassadors can soon apply for the autumn placement on the Qvantum webpage.
https://www.qvantum.com/uk/ ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY SOLUTIONS - Spring 2025 29
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