Fitting Individual room temperature controls such as thermostatic radiator valves (TRV) is among a number of requirements for new buildings, and existing buildings when heat generators are replaced, under the new Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD). All EU member states, including the UK, will have 20 months to implement the new Directive into their national legislation.
Gareth Ash, Marketing Manager for heating products manufacturer Danfoss, welcomes the new requirements, which he says recognise the energy saving value of low cost, short payback solutions like TRVs. “This is good news for the industry and end-users,” he says. “Properly selected and installed, TRVs are proven to provide accurate temperature control in individual rooms, reducing heating costs and enhancing comfort for consumers. They are also quick and easy to fit in new or retrofit installations, which is another important benefit for installers and their customers.”
A review of existing energy efficiency Directives found that relatively low cost energy efficiency solutions, such as hydraulic balancing of the heating system and the installation or replacement of thermostatic control valves, were insufficiently considered. In order to achieve the intended building energy performance improvements in practice, the new EPDB states that the aim should be to improve the actual energy performance of heating systems, air-conditioning systems and ventilation systems under real-life use conditions. The actual performance of such systems is governed by the energy used under varying conditions, such as part load operating conditions.
With this in mind, the new Directive states that the installation of self-regulating devices (for example TRVs) should be considered for the separate regulation of the temperature in each room or, where justified, in a designated heated zone of the building unit. This requirement is subject to the installation of such devices being technically and economically feasible.
The new EPDB demonstrates the EU’s commitment to developing a sustainable, competitive, secure and decarbonised energy system by 2050. Decarbonising building stock, which is responsible for approximately 36% of all CO2 emissions in the Union, is seen as key to meeting that goal.
Summing up, Gareth Ash says Danfoss will be working with the European Building Automation Controls Association (EUBAC) to guide the industry through the new requirements and to simplify compliance for installers by offering a comprehensive range of high efficiency heating controls.
Danfoss is a leading manufacturer of world-class heating products for the residential and commercial markets, with factories throughout Europe, including in the UK and Denmark. Products range from domestic heating controls such as programmers, thermostats and TRVs to balancing valves, pressure and flow controllers, heat exchangers and energy meters for district and commercial heating applications. The company’s extensive product range is supplied through a national network of stockists. A comprehensive range of customer support services is also available, including installer training courses, CPD seminars and the Danfoss Assist mobile website at www.Assistyou.Danfoss.co.uk. For more information visit www.heating.danfoss.co.uk