EcoTechX’s CIBSE Award-winning Optimum air conditioning system uses water, not refrigerant, to provide cooling, which not only reduces embodied carbon, but also cuts operational energy use by up to 65%
Category: Technical
Breaking the ice: a novel defrosting solution for heat pumps
Heat pump performance in sub-zero conditions is significantly challenged because of cumulative freezing. A new passive refrigerant flow control system aims to mitigate ice buildup, offering a simple yet effective approach to improving efficiency in extreme climates. Tim Dwyer reports
Take note: fire-safe façades
New Technical Notes from the Centre for Window and Cladding Technology are essential reading for anyone involved in the design and construction of modern façades. By David Metcalfe, director at CWCT
Clarifying fire safety: understanding new standards
The updated BS 9991:2024 ushers in a new era of fire safety design for high-rise flats, with guidance on escape staircases, open-plan spaces, evacuation lifts, sprinklers, smoke control and care homes. Calum Smith explores the key updates
International rescue: China’s route to decarbonisation
To share best practice on decarbonisation and climate resilience, CIBSE has just held knowledge-sharing face-to-face workshops organised by the Chinese government. Anastasia Mylona reports on learnings for both sides
How ready are UK buildings for heat pumps?
How ready are UK buildings for heat pumps? A new study analysing the performance of existing boilers challenges assumptions about the need for radiator upgrades and fabric improvements when switching from gas, says Tim Dwyer
Air of excitement: air quality award shortlist
Ahead of the 2025 CIBSE Building Performance Awards, we review the shortlist for the Product or Innovation – Air Quality Award
Beware double standards: pressurisation design and expansion vessel sizing
There are two standards for pressurisation design and expansion vessel sizing, which is causing confusion that threatens performance, says Spirotech’s Steve Simmonds
Driving for efficiency: analysing HVAC performance
By monitoring and analysing the performance of motor drives in HVAC equipment, ABB’s Richard Gee says building managers can identify opportunities for energy efficiency quick wins
British Land’s heat pump retrofit at York House
The adoption of energy management standards has been key to enabling British Land to target net zero carbon by 2030 and begin the energy transition to heat pumps across its multibillion-pound estate. Alex Smith reports