Airtight buildings now and in the future

• Increasing levels of insulation together with airtightness are bringing us closer and closer to the building which only requires a heating system for pre-heating the building during the winter season.
• The relatively large heat losses associated with infiltration, which can typically be up to 30 W/m² are practically eliminated.
• Internal heat gains from lighting, equipment and people are now sufficient to match the much smaller heat losses.
• The traditional 'perimeter heating' solution that we so often see- radiators dotted under the windows- is no longer necessary.
• Draughts, perimeter heat loss, and window down draughts are no longer a problem.
• The capacity of heating plant is now reduced and much more closely matched to peak loads, meaning higher operating efficiencies.
• Comfort within the building is increased, and together with simplification of control strategies this will result in happier building occupants.