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A guide to energy-efficient retrofits for existing HVAC systems
Assessing the need for an HVAC retrofit
Identifying inefficiencies in older HVAC systems and implementing the right retrofit solution is the best way to optimise system performance. Common signs that indicate a retrofit is necessary include high energy bills due to excessive heating or cooling loads, fluctuating indoor room temperatures, frequent equipment breakdowns leading to costly repairs, and excessive noise from outdated components.
Conducting an energy audit can pinpoint inefficiencies and determine the best retrofit solutions. In this process, it’s important to keep in mind that each building has unique heating and cooling demands influenced by the building fabric, the climate, occupancy levels, and usage patterns. Retrofitting strategies should therefore be tailored to these factors to maximize efficiency and comfort.
Key energy-efficient retrofit options
1. Upgrade the heat source
Upgrading the heat source is one of the most effective ways to improve energy efficiency. Replacing an old fossil fuel boiler with a heat pump, for example, can reduce the amount of purchased energy by 2 to 3 times while also reducing CO2 emissions. This lowers both the system’s running costs and its impact on the environment. Heat pumps and condensing boilers are particularly effective for buildings transitioning to low-carbon heating solutions in an energy refurbishment, as these heat sources operate at lower temperatures while still providing adequate heating performance.
2. Check old radiators and replace with low-temperature radiators
In the past, radiators were generally designed for higher temperatures, meaning they don’t combine very well with certain heat sources. However, the reduced heating load resulting from an energy refurbishment allows for the implementation of lower system temperatures and low-temperature radiators. These emitters are a good match for modern heat sources such as condensing boilers or heat pumps. They maximise heat output and react faster, making them easier to control. This is turn helps to improve the system’s energy efficiency.
Discover our comprehensive comparison of low-temperature radiators
3. Retrofit electric radiators
Retrofitting electric radiators is a great option for buildings or rooms that lack access to a central heating system. Modern electric radiators, such as the ones in our smart Yali Plus range, come equipped with a digital thermostat and programming features that allow precise temperature management for different rooms. Whenever it becomes too hot or too cold, the radiator reacts immediately. This results in a constant and comfortable ambient temperature as well as optimal energy use.
On top of that, electric radiators don’t require any pipework, just an electrical connection. This not only speeds up their installation, but also means there is no heat loss from the boiler or the pipes and reaction times are very fast. An added benefit of smart electric radiators is that they can be linked to an app, such as our Unisenza Plus app, allowing users to control the radiators remotely and adapt the heating to their schedule so that unoccupied rooms aren’t heated unnecessarily.
Read more about energy-efficiency and electric radiators
4. Retrofit underfloor heating
Installing underfloor heating is another way to improve the energy efficiency of a building. Since underfloor heating systems ideally operate at low system temperatures, they’re an excellent match for condensing boilers and heat pumps.
Depending on whether the existing floor can be removed or should be retained various underfloor heating systems offer a suitable solution. Conventional underfloor heating systems have an installation height of at least 100 to 120 mm. This may mean you have to remove the existing floor structure to achieve an acceptable room height. If you don’t intend to do this, an underfloor heating system with a low installation height, such as our ts14 R or klettjet R renovation system with a construction height of only 30 to 40 mm, offers the perfect solution.
5. Install electronic thermostatic heads (ETHs)
Smart electronic thermostatic heads (ETHs), such as the one in our Unisenza Plus range, are easy to retrofit on existing radiators and enable individual, precise room temperature control. They help to optimize energy consumption and enhance occupant comfort. Smart thermostatic heads (ETHs) can also be controlled remotely via a smartphone app or smart home systems, which allows users to adjust heating schedules whenever and wherever they want. This results in lower heating costs and improved overall energy efficiency.
6. Implement Unisenza (Plus) zoning controls
Especially in large buildings or multi-occupancy properties implementing zoning controls is an effective way to manage oenergy use. By dividing the building into separate heating zones and implementing zoning controls, users can tailor the heating system based on occupancy and usage patterns. This approach prevents energy waste in unused areas and enables more precise temperature control, which in turn reduces overall heating costs and enhances comfort levels.
Read more about energy-efficient heating and cooling with zone temperature control
Conclusion
Retrofitting HVAC systems with energy-efficient solutions can significantly reduce operational costs, improve indoor comfort, and support sustainability goals. We therefore recommend to proactively assess existing systems and implement retrofit strategies wherever possible.
Should you have any questions about this or need help to plan an energy-efficient retrofit, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experts. We are happy to help.