Friday 13 September 2013

TSB monitoring update of Passivhaus schemes: Knights Place and Rowan House



We have now carried out over a year of monitoring at these flats, downloaded the data and started the analysis.  To recap, as part of this study we have been monitoring the following:
  • All energy circuits – lights, small power, hot water, MVHR, kitchen appliances etc
  • Temperature, humidity, CO2 levels 

Our findings so far have found that

The flats use 4-5 times less space heating energy and 2-3 times less hot water energy compared to standard new build.  This translates to an overall energy saving of over 65%.  

Whilst we have managed to reduce heating and hot water loads via the design the next step in closing the performance gap is to address tenant behaviour and appliance use.   Energy loads here require particular attention and G&S are proposing to work with the tenants to develop low energy strategies and review how they are using their appliances and the type they have.   

Monitored CO2 levels for winter cold days have been found to be within acceptable guidelines for good air quality.   This is good news as it shows that with windows closed in winter and using the MVHR (mechanical ventilation with heat recovery) system, good air quality can be achieved.  

We have also found that comfortable temperature conditions can be maintained on the coldest of days with the use of a small heater battery in the supply air.

The next step now is to download the summer temperature data for this years exceptional summer to determine how well the flats have maintained comfort levels with all that mass they have been designed with.  

The findings are summarised in the following publication:

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