This report compares the thermal performances of two dwellings, type A and type B, in calculating the heat loss parameter of each dwelling.
In times of climate change and scarcity of resources, the importance of energy efficient building design has increased significantly and costumers demand new solution to get independent of rising fuel prices and to save energy.
Therefore, energy efficient design has to comprise more than just insulation of the envelope of dwellings.
Whilst the insulation still is one of the most important mean to stop the heat loss of the fabric, the concepts of heating, lighting and internal appliances have gained a great importance in energy efficient design.
Table of Contents
Executive Summary
Introduction
Comparison of House Types
Improving Energy Efficiency
Alternative Construction Modes
Observations
Conclusion and Recommendations
Objectives and Research Themes
This report aims to analyze and compare the thermal performance of two distinct dwelling types, Type A and Type B, to identify potential improvements in energy efficiency. It investigates how structural modifications, such as changing building materials and heating system configurations, can reduce heat loss, minimize energy demand, and address the environmental and economic challenges posed by rising fuel costs.
- Thermal performance assessment and heat loss calculation (HLP)
- Evaluation of heating and control system optimizations
- Impact of construction modes on energy demand
- Benefits of passive solar design and energy-efficient appliances
Excerpt from the book
Improving Energy Efficiency
In order to save energy in buildings it is important to know where the vast part of energy is consumed within the buildings. According to the Sankey diagram (shown in Appendix C) this part is the energy demand of the space heating (39% of the primary energy). Consequently this is the reasonable start for an improvement of energy efficiency. Other uses such as lighting, water heating or cooking demand up to 30% of the primary energy and therefore are also considerable.
The presently installed heating system reveals some improvable aspects. As the boiler is a critical element of the space heating system great savings of energy can be achieved if the used gas fired low thermal capacity boiler is replaced. It has just an efficiency of 72% (DETR, 1998). An improved efficiency can be gained by installing a condensing boiler. The efficiency of these boilers is close to 85% (DETR, 1998). Another improvement can be achieved when the control-system of the space heating system is modified. The disadvantage of the central timer and thermostats is that these installations do not take into account the different demands of different rooms in the building. Therefore a decentralised control-system with thermostats in each room and thermostatic radiator valves (already installed) at each radiator is more efficient. This system allows a tailored heat supply to each room and therefore avoids an overheating of bedrooms or halls.
Chapter Summaries
Executive Summary: Provides an overview of the comparative thermal performance of dwelling types A and B and highlights the potential energy savings through construction and system upgrades.
Introduction: Outlines the necessity for energy-efficient building designs in the context of climate change and increasing resource scarcity.
Comparison of House Types: Analyzes the thermal characteristics of Type A and B, establishing heat loss parameters based on structural and environmental assumptions.
Improving Energy Efficiency: Discusses technical interventions for heating systems, appliance energy ratings, and the integration of passive solar design principles.
Alternative Construction Modes: Evaluates the efficacy of timber frame versus cavity wall constructions and the role of windows in reducing fabric heat loss.
Observations: Offers a broader perspective on sustainable design, including the use of renewable energy sources and the positive impact of efficiency on brand image.
Conclusion and Recommendations: Summarizes the key findings, advocating for timber frame construction and advanced heating controls to ensure long-term energy sustainability.
Keywords
Energy Efficiency, Thermal Performance, House Design, Heat Loss, Sustainability, Timber Frame, Building Regulations, Passive Solar, Heating Systems, Energy Demand, Insulation, Condensing Boiler, Environmental Science, Carbon Footprint, Resource Management
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this report?
The report focuses on evaluating and improving the thermal performance and energy efficiency of two residential dwelling types, categorized as Type A and Type B.
What are the central thematic areas?
The core themes include heat loss calculation, heating system optimization, building construction materials, and the application of passive solar design principles.
What is the main objective of this study?
The objective is to identify how specific design and structural changes can reduce the overall energy demand and heat loss of buildings to mitigate the impact of rising energy costs.
Which scientific methodology is utilized?
The study employs a quantitative comparative methodology, calculating thermal heat loss (HLP) and comparing the performance of different wall construction types and heating efficiencies.
What topics are covered in the main body?
The body covers a comparative analysis of house types, practical strategies for improving heating system efficiency, and an examination of alternative construction materials like timber frames.
Which keywords characterize this report?
Key terms include Energy Efficiency, Thermal Performance, Heat Loss, Timber Frame, Sustainability, and Passive Solar Design.
Why does the Type B dwelling perform better than Type A?
The Type B dwelling performs better primarily due to its geometry—specifically its lower ratio of exposed surface area to total volume—and its lower window-to-floor ratio compared to Type A.
What role does the boiler play in energy efficiency?
The boiler is identified as a critical component; replacing outdated gas boilers with high-efficiency condensing boilers can significantly reduce primary energy consumption for space heating.
How does timber frame construction affect thermal performance?
Timber frame construction can be pre-constructed for better air-tightness and allows for thinner wall structures with the same U-value, though it lacks the thermal mass required for summer cooling.
- Quote paper
- Bastian Görke (Author), 2005, Principles of Energy Efficient House Design. The Comparison of Two Dwelling Concepts, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1030681
