Designing efficient hybrid heat pump systems

Considering the optimal operational design conditions of both technologies is essential to maximise the efficiency of a hybrid heat pump system. Baxi Heating’s Ryan Kirkwood offers advice on how to avoid conflict

Rethinking the fan coil

The Artus hybrid air conditioning unit is only 200mm deep, yet it achieves energy savings of 83% over conventional fan coil units thanks to patented designs for the heat exchanger and fan assembly. Andy Pearson speaks to inventor Roger Olsen about his quest to cool buildings more efficiently

Making building performance visible

Making building performance visible is the aim of a new tool that tracks the impact of design changes on energy intensity and cost. Roderic Bunn and John Field describe the tool and its advantages for use on Soft Landings projects

Saving energy at a stroke in leisure centre swimming pools

Improved insulation in wet leisure centres not only cuts heat loss through walls and windows, but also allows swimming pools to operate at a higher relative humidity, resulting in energy savings as ventilation rates are reduced. Dee Associates’ Mike Hancock explains

Arc detection devices: fault-finding mission

Arc fault detection devices have been recommended in wiring regulations since 2019. Based on his own experiments, Hoare Lea’s Kenelm Hoare MCIBSE looks at the realities of arc risk and discusses how effective the devices are in preventing electrical fires

The art of illumination in museums and galleries

LEDs and the internet of things have transformed specification in the lighting industry, and this has been reflected in the updated Lighting Guide 8 – Lighting for museums and art galleries. Guide author Mark Sutton Vane summarises the key changes

A novel approach: air cleaning devices

A new CIBSE guide aims to equip specifiers and facilities managers with the knowledge to safely and effectively select air cleaners. Cundall’s Ed Wealend summarises the contents

On target: net zero modular homes at zero extra cost

Ilke Homes has vowed to manufacture zero carbon homes at zero additional cost by 2030. Andy Pearson speaks to ilke’s Nigel Banks about the services strategy and the manufacturing efficiencies that will enable it to hit its goals