"mechanical heating cooling and refrigeration"

The 36 storey Grade-II listed, white-concrete high-rise tower, has been completely overhauled. Previously containing offices, but has now been converted to accommodate 82 apartments, including a penthouse ranging in price from £3 million to £55 million.During the refurbishment architects clustered corridors and bathrooms in the centre of the tower, making room for living areas and bedrooms to run alongside the windows, to make the most of the London skyline view.With approximately 12,700m2 of medium density gypsum fibre panels engineered with tongue & groove edges for ease of installation to create a monolithic robust surface over underfloor heating trays and 6mm Isorubber working as an impact vibration reduction mat. The panels installed were chosen due to their excellent thermal conductivity, a requirement for the system to work in conjunction with the desired underfloor heating system.

A Grant Uflex MINI low profile underfloor heating system has been installed throughout the entire downstairs of a four-year-old property, providing the homeowners with complete comfort in the rooms they occupy the most frequently.

Teesside-based logistics firm AV Dawson has built a new 130,000m3 warehouse specifically to store £15m-worth steel coils for a nearby international car manufacturer. With the steel at risk of ‘sweating’ and rusting in high humidity levels exceeding 65%, the company was tasked with ensuring a very specific climate for the warehouse (without which the steel would be rendered unusable), while also maintaining low energy costs.The SolutionHoward Tribick, director at local renewable energy specialist and NIBE Pro Installer HT Energy, specified, designed and fitted ten NIBE F1345 ground source heat pumps (GSHPs). Given the site is built on top of an active water table (the River Tees), Howard and the team were able to make the most of the surroundings as a natural energy source. The heat pumps collect heat from 70 bore holes, each 150m deep – a total of 10,500m of active bore hole depth. Each 60kW GSHP is paired with its own ventilating unit and 500L NIBE UKV buffer tank – producing a total output of 600kW. Solar panels on the roof provide an additional 220kW to help meet the warehouse’s electricity needs.ResultsWith the ten GSHPs now fully operational, the results have been even better than expected – with a seasonal performance factor (SPF) of 3.65 and average humidity levels of just 47%. Interconnected with 3km of header pipes, the GSHPs are spaced equidistantly along one side of the 264m-long building. The units are set up as separate systems, so they can work independently of each other or together as required. This provides an added level of security for the customer, ensuring the system can cope at all times and the steel is kept at optimum conditions.Customer Testimonial“This system made perfect commercial sense for us. While the initial outlay was greater than some of the other alternatives, GSHPs provided the most cost-effective solution by far in the long term. In fact, compared to natural gas, we will be making an impressive energy saving of 1.58 million kW/h each year. Our projected payback period is just ten years and we’re also benefiting from Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) payments for each unit of renewable energy we’re generating.”Gary Dawson, managing director, AV Dawson

OverviewHerefordshire Council needed to replace the existing fresh air ventilation unit at Halo Leisure Pool. The unit was old, with several attempts made to improve the pool hall humidity and the unit’s energy efficiency over the years, however it had never worked well.RequirementRecotherm were tasked with creating a bespoke, energy efficient replacement unit. Our engineers worked on various different configurations to utilise heat recovery whilst still maintaining the existing inlet and outlet positions. Avoiding the existing unit’s method of a run-around coil system meant we were able to design and build a bespoke unit that incorporated recirculation, allowing humidity control.SolutionThe existing 20 year old unit was 8m tall, supported by a welded steel frame; utilising scaffolding and reciprocating saws we were able to remove the unit ready for the new installation.A steel table was constructed to take the weight of our new unit, which had been delivered on-site in flat pack form. The entire project took 4 weeks, resulting in an energy efficient, state of the art, swimming pool air handling unit incorporating controlled fresh air and heat recovery via a plate heat exchanger with EC speed-controlled fans.  The council will realise considerable savings on running costs, and importantly much improved conditions in the pool hall with the humidity now under control. Recotherm delivered:Engineering expertiseBespoke designEasy installation with flat pack unitsCertified installersEnergy efficiencyHumidity control

The Dimplex Edel air source hot water heat pump has proved its credentials as an exceptionally efficient, easy to install and cost-effective renewable water heating system for one resident on the island of Jersey.

Holland Park Villas has set a new benchmark for quality in the super-prime central London residential development market. Unparalleled interior finishes combined with exceptional landscapes to show what a truly world-class team can deliver.On arrival, an impressive 30 year old Acer Palmatum tree takes centre stage. Granite paving, hornbeam trees, ornamental planting and a water wall further add to this sense of elegance and quality.This level of quality and attention to detail continues to areas not easily seen by the new tenants. Around 13,200 m2 of Soundis High density dry screed panels able to span between joists were installed by our installation partner UK Acoustic Systems as a raised access floor system. Chosen primarily for the ease of maintenance and future extensions of the underfloor network, the system is also an integral part of the underfloor heating system.Not only does this system demonstrate its practical heating properties, but the new apartments will also benefit from the pleasant acoustic characteristics provided from the floor system.

A small development of new build properties has been completed near Helston in Cornwall, homes which will be exclusively available to local people with long-standing associations with the area. The homes have renewable heating systems installed with Aerona³ air source heat pumps and cylinders all supplied by Grant UK.

Hands Under Hand Dryers are suitable for a wide range of washrooms spaces, from smaller more intimate washrooms to larger commercial spaces.This superb group of dryers offer an array of market leading technology, while continually maintaining the guaranteed fast and efficient drying times. From ECO functions, to built in HEPA Filters, to adjustable heat controls; our hands in range offers everything you need and more.

Durability, safety and aesthetics needed to work together for the Viking House project. With the refurbishment nestled among conventionally built brick buildings there was a need for a contemporary look that mirrored the local vernacular. Viking House, a managed student accommodation at the University of Lincoln made up of three five-storey buildings and standing 20m tall, was designed to reflect the university’s continuing progress. Mechslip was chosen along with Ibstock’s Leicester Red facing bricks, due to its A1 rated non-combustible to EN13501-1 standards making it the ideal choice for a modern high-rise structure.

Union Industries, the UK’s leading manufacturer of high-speed industrial doors, has supported a project at West Midlands manufacturer, Donghua Ltd, to eradicate heat loss from its warehouse, with the installation of a pair of its Bulldoor Rapid Rise Doors.

During the core renovation of the Frankfurt office tower, the Lindner Group was entrusted with the complete basic fit-out and one of the tenant fit-outs. In addition tocarrying out various drywall works, high quality raised floors and energy-efficient heated and chilled ceilings were installed in combination with lighting systems fromLindner. High-quality wooden doors from Lindner’s own production, related joinery work, as well as flexible system glass partitions complete the construction package. Lindner also carried out plastering and painting work as well as tile, coating and flooring work, and additional installation services.Despite numerous challenges such as (heritage-protected) construction in existing buildings and the high logistical effort involved, the vision of a modern office tower wassuccessfully realized. Thanks to sustainable construction systems and building services combined with effective thermal insulation measures, the Global Tower is set tobe awarded with the DGNB Platinum certification.

The Ecclesiastical cast iron floor grille isn't used exclusively in churches, cathedrals or abbeys. We've supplied these beautiful Scottish made gratings to a number of religious buildings across the country that's for sure but their main use is in "ordinary" period properties and listed buildings. Buildings with large heating pipes sunk into the floor with suspended walkways. Places like Stansted and Rotherfield Hall or National Trust, Mount Stewart Property in County Down and Halls in Melton Mowbray and Stoke on Trent. To make a real feature or for a sympathetic restoration why not take a look ...

Contour recently completed a project involving the supply and installation of 350 anti-ligature radiator covers across 15 mental health wards in Southeast England. The existing radiators posed a significant risk of harm to service users due to their outdated design. After inspecting a single ward, it was evident that all wards faced similar risks. Contour was tasked with surveying, supplying, and manufacturing anti-ligature radiator guards for each ward to ensure safety.The challenges faced by the customer included the absence of anti-ligature radiators, sharp corners posing threats, and cleanliness issues with old guards. To address these challenges, Contour installed a comprehensive range of anti-ligature covers designed to enhance safety and hygiene without compromising heating efficiency. The new covers featured small grilles and rounded edges to minimize risks and facilitate easier cleaning.The results were immediate improvements in safety and hygiene within the environments. The installed radiator guards featured IP3x grilles with 2mm holes, preventing ligature creation. Additionally, drop-down front access was incorporated for easier cleaning, and rounded corners provided enhanced protection. Overall, the project successfully mitigated risks and enhanced safety for service users in mental health environments.

Insworke Mill was originally built in 1590 and survived as a working Mill until the First World War. After falling into disrepair it’s now undergoing a major refurbishment to convert it to its new life as commercial properties to the ground floor with a luxury residential dwelling above. To the first floor a Lewis® Deck/screed solution was used to provide acoustic separating floors with timber beams left exposed, replicating the original beams. On the ground floor; Lewis® was used as part of a warm floor solution above the cellar areas. U/F heating was incorporated in all floors.

The world’s leading museum of art and design, the V&A Museum, appointed Consultancy Webb Yates to carry out significant design upgrade work to its ventilation systems to provide heating and cooling for the staff kitchen and back of house area. A small window provided the only access point to the installation area in the courtyard. S&P UK was selected to supply a heat recovery unit that could fit through the small access point and meet the bespoke requirements of the building

Location: Clitheroe, LancashireProject: EducationalProduct: Elliptical Aluminium Fascia with Secret Fix Panel SystemShadex 260 Solar Shade Vertical Stack (Structural Steel Support)100mm Round Contemporary Aluminium Pipe​Finish: Syntha Pulvin RAL 7039 Matt Quartz GreyFire rating: A2 s1, d0 Non-combustible (Reaction to Fire EN BS 13501-1:2018)Client: Stonyhurst CollegeArchitect: Cassidy + Ashton ArchitectsMain Contractor:  Globe Construction ManagementSub Contractor: Blackwell Stanistreet

St Wilfrid’s Catholic High School had outgrown its dining room, which eventually could only seat half their pupils at a time. They looked at the options to increase dining space and realised that they couldn’t afford an extension building. That is when they contacted A&S Landscape and realised that an outdoor canopy, with side panels, power, heating and lighting could be a fantastic, cost-effective solution.

Hand dryers were invested more than 50 years ago. Old style hand dryers used hot air to dry hands. More recent inovations have shown that hands dry faster when high speed hand dryers are used.These highly efficient hand dyer achieve fantastic drying time and a large energy saving by reducing drying time to less than 10 seconds for lower power usage.

A faster dry time and lower power consumption means the Crocodillo T and Gorillo hand dryer costs up to 80% less to run than older style hand dryers and 97% less than paper towels. You can dry your hands over 20 times with a Gorillo for the price of a single paper towel.

Sterillo Hand Dryer and Sterillo UNO have understandably been flying out of our warehouse in recent months. Our washroom sterilisation equipment was primarily being used in just the one room, but thanks to Sterillo UNO – a complete air sanitisation unit without a hand dryer, we have seen customers finding other purposes and locations for them to be used.

A trio of installations by Union Industries has helped to support energy efficiency at the production facility of a world-leading radiator manufacturer. Stelrad has benefited from the installation of six of Union Industries’ Bulldoors at its Mexborough, South Yorkshire, 17-acre site. The facility handles Stelrad’s UK radiators business and the co-ordination of the company’s advanced production and distribution operation.

More than 6000m2 of Barrisol Clim® featuring Carrier® product ceilings were installed in the Oslo Plads building.The Barrisol Clim® featuring Carrier® Products solution achieved the best possible performance in Denmark in terms of thermal comfort, the "Indoor Climate Danish Class A" label, in addition to achieving ISO 7730 Class A for heating and cooling performance.

At the end of 2021 we were approached by a couple looking to build their dream retirement home in Braemar.The client's wished to maximise the main aspect to the West, within the tight width of the site, by creating a double height living room with a glazed gable.The final design consisted of a one-and-a-half story dwelling. The client's also chose to install a Mechanical Ventilation & Heat Recovery and Air Source Heat Pump system, with heating supplemented by a feature wood burning stove.

It has been debated over between paper towel and hand dryer industry giants for many years. Both sides of the argument have for some time been able to make viable scientific studies which prove one is better than the other at maintaining washroom hygiene and in a recent article in the Guardian newspaper, they further highlight this very impasse. But, are hand dryers really unhygienic? And who currently reigns supreme in the great paper towels vs hand dryer debate.

Research highlights the importance of hand drying in infection control – and points to electric hand dryers as the best method of hand dryingWhile the benefits of washing your hands have been understood for more than a century, the benefits of hand drying are yet to become public knowledge. Equally, the best method of hand drying has historically divided opinion.

If you’ve never fitted a hand dryer by yourself before, you’re in the right place. To make your hand dryer installation an absolute breeze, follow our simple six-step guide.

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Engineered for strength and reliability over a long lifespan, the Armadillo ECO is made with the most durable materials available and is capable of withstanding constant use.

The new ECO Tapillo Tap Hand Dryers have been designed with both style and function in mind.Both the Tapillo Single Air Tap Hand Dryer and the Tapillo 2 in 1 Air and Water Tap Hand Dryer are beautifully made from top quality 304 stainless steel and manufactured to an exacting high standard.Each dryer boasts an air temperature sensor to automatically reduce the heater power, saving energy and money. A 2x stage air filtration process also provides ultra clean sanitised air.

A slimline powerhouse. The Beaver ECO provides impressive, high-speed drying power while keeping the washroom landscape uncluttered thanks to its ultra slimline design.At 99mm in depth, the Beaver ECO dryer is one of the world’s slimmest hand dryers, making it perfect for washrooms where floor space is scarce.

The BuildingThe Malvern Theatre in Worcestershire is a longstanding asset to the community, having undergone extensive renovation works, the construction of the new entrance, now uses Saint-Gobain Glass COOL-LITE SKN 175, further enhancing its appeal.In addition to serving as the theatre's new main entrance, the extension facilitates a significant increase in workshop capacity, from approximately 2,500 to 14,500 places annually. This expansion enables the hosting of further drama, music, movement, dance, and art classes. Furthermore, the enhanced facilities enable the Malvern Theatres to extend its collaborations with Acorns Children’s Hospice and other specialized care providers.The GlassThe COOL-LITE SKN 175 glass is an ideal solution for façades and glazing in commercial buildings. This high-performance product excels in solar control, providing a neutral aesthetic whilst prioritising energy efficiency. The result is the creation of beautiful, functional buildings that perform well, considering aspects of comfort, visual appeal, and the sustainability of building glass over the complete building life cycle.COOL-LITE SKN 175 balances the advantages of a high-performance neutral solar control product with:·      High light transmission 70%·      Low g-value of 0.35·      Excellent U-value of 1.0W/m2K·      High degree of neutralityBy using COOL-LITE SKN 175, interiors can be made more comfortable, reducing overheating and the reliance on costly air conditioning. Simultaneously, it noticeably decreases excessive heat loss. The high light transmittance also diminishes the need for interior lighting during daylight hours, contributing to a further reduction in energy costs.

Ground source review: Ullenwood Court, Churcham HomesA development of large luxury family homes in the heart of the Cotswold countryside is being built with sustainability in mind by property developer Churcham Homes. Once complete, all 26 contemporary properties, located within 34 acres of stunning countryside, will feature innovative ground source technology that produces zero emissions or air pollution.Key FactsPrivate, new build development13kW & 15kW Kensa Evo GSHPs52 x boreholes between 141m – 227m deepHeating, hot water and coolingAnnual heating load 672,099 kWhHigh spec, luxury new buildsUp to 6,547sq ft

A classic Parisian apartment is benefitting from the thermal effectiveness of the introduction of the innovative ultra-thin Spacetherm® WL insulation.Located in the 11th arrondissement in the heart of Paris on Boulevard Voltaire and overlooking the Place de la Republique, the two-bedroom, 135sqm apartment was built in the Hausmann style. Hausmann’s renovation of Paris was part of a major programme commissioned by Emperor Napoléon III in the late 19th century, resulting in the distinctive appearance of the wide avenues, parks and squares which have become associated with this beautiful city.Property owner Keirnan Murphy has made a significant investment in the renovation of the apartment to improve overall comfort, energy efficiency and to reduce heating costs.Keirnan explains, “The solid stone walls, whilst adding to the building’s charm, result in heating inefficiencies and higher heating costs. During summer the stone walls warm during the day, retaining and radiating heat throughout the night. In winter, the solid walls cool down leading to a huge increase in heating costs.We undertook lots of research on solutions for green and energy-efficient renovations. In the research, we considered products available within France and as well as those available internationally. The Spacetherm WL aerogel insulation from the A. Proctor Group was a perfect choice for the apartment. At just 13mm thickness, the Spacetherm WL fits inside the lip of our cornices, which average about 20mm. Typically the walls of these older properties are not completely flat and so the option of an ultra-thin insulation was critical. Most alternatives were thicker and would not have worked.We are very pleased with the results and we noticed that when leaning up against the Spacetherm WL you can feel your back warm against the insulation. The A. Proctor Group were extremely helpful in addressing all the questions from the architect and ourselves. They also provided comprehensive support and guidance to our builder on the installation.”Spacetherm WL is a high-performance laminate specifically designed to be fixed to the internal surfaces of existing solid walls without the need for mechanical fixings. Spacetherm WL consists of Spacetherm aerogel insulation blanket bonded to 3mm Magnesium Board (MgO), for use in applications where improved thermal performance is required with limited space.Typically, a solid wall will have a U value of around 2.1 W/m2K. Following the application of Spacetherm WL, this can be reduced to around 0.8 W/m2K, dependent on the wall structure.

As concerns about environmental sustainability continue to escalate, the concept of Passive House (Passivhaus) design has emerged as a game-changer in creating energy-efficient buildings.This innovative approach focuses on maximizing a structure’s energy efficiency while maintaining optimal comfort for its occupants. One key element that can complement and enhance Passive House principles is the incorporation of automatic doors.Understanding Passive House DesignPassive House design revolves around stringent energy efficiency standards. It employs various techniques to minimize energy consumption, such as superior insulation, airtight construction, high-performance windows, and heat recovery ventilation. These elements work harmoniously to create a building that requires minimal energy for heating or cooling, leading to significant reductions in carbon emissions and energy costs.The Role of Automatic Doors in Passive HouseAutomatic doors might not seem like an obvious addition to Passive House design, but their integration can significantly contribute to its efficiency goals. Here’s how:Controlled Air Exchange:Passive House principles emphasise airtightness to prevent energy loss. Automatic doors, equipped with sensors and precise control mechanisms, can efficiently regulate the airflow, allowing for controlled ventilation while minimising the loss of heated or cooled air. This feature ensures that the building maintains its airtightness while providing necessary air circulation.Energy Conservation:By automating the opening and closing of doors, energy loss due to unnecessary drafts or human error is minimised. The doors swiftly close after use, reducing the transfer of heat or cold air between different zones within the building. This helps in maintaining the indoor temperature, contributing to the overall energy efficiency of the structure.Accessibility and Comfort:In addition to energy efficiency, automatic doors significantly enhance accessibility, ensuring ease of entry and exit for all individuals. The seamless operation of these doors adds convenience and comfort to occupants while aligning with the core principles of Passive House design.From revolving doors to sliding doors, we have just he solution for your energy saving needs. We help our clients save energy because we know how important it is to cultivate a sustainable future and reduce environmental impact, while simultaneously promoting cost-effective and efficient solutions for their individual needs. Find our new energy saving FAAC sliding doors here solutions here, and energy saving data here.ConclusionPassive House design has revolutionised the way we approach building construction, emphasising sustainability and energy efficiency. The incorporation of automatic doors complements these principles by enhancing airtightness, energy conservation, and overall occupant comfort.In the pursuit of creating eco-friendly and energy-efficient buildings, integrating automated systems like doors not only aligns with Passive House standards but also sets a new benchmark for sustainable architecture. These technological advancements not only serve functional purposes but also play a pivotal role in reducing environmental impact while prioritising the well-being of the building’s occupants.Check out more of our Energy Solutions.For more information or assistance with any project, please contact enquiries.esuk@faactechnologies.com where we can provide expert guidance and detailed documentation.

Nothing says sophistication in a washroom more than high performing hygienic quiet hand dryers, especially when they have a significantly lower sound output than customers’ might be used to. It’s surprising how simple ambience and a pleasant method to dry one’s hands after visiting the bathroom in a restaurant, bar or workplace can heighten the overall experience of the visit.

Students are now, more than ever acutely aware of carbon footprints and energy efficiency. Installing a super energy efficient hand dryer not only saves your establishments money, it also shows your students that you care and are doing whatever you can to make a difference.