ᐅ Type and Setup of Temperature Control – What Is It Called Exactly?

Created on: 11 Jul 2017 15:04
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CiJay
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CiJay
11 Jul 2017 15:04
Hello everyone,

We might take over a two-family house built in 1960 in the next few years, where we have already been living in the attic for some years. In that case, we would continue living in the attic and want to rent out the ground floor.
We are already considering several things regarding what is even possible.

We have what should be a good gas heating system in the basement (at least everyone tells us that). The radiators will definitely be replaced, as they are still cast iron, very dirty inside, and require a lot of cleaning due to the location of the house (dust accumulates quickly here, lots of spiders, etc.).

Now I recalled a documentary that I found very interesting and I would like to learn more about this type of system and temperature control. However, I can’t remember what this kind of system is called.

In the featured single-family house, there was a fairly large unit in the basement that drew fresh air from outside, conditioned it, and distributed it to the individual rooms through air vents. This way, not only heating but also air conditioning was provided.
Since everything was done with fresh air, theoretically you didn’t even have to open a window because fresh air constantly circulated.
What I also remember was that the fresh air did not cause drafts in the rooms. You could essentially place a candle 20cm (8 inches) from the spot where the air entered the room, and the flame would not move at all.

Maybe someone knows exactly what I mean, can share some information about it, and/or can tell me where I could best learn more. Because my knowledge about this system is currently zero :-O

Best regards
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Alex85
11 Jul 2017 15:20
This appears to be an air-to-air heat pump. However, it is not suitable for existing buildings unless they are retrofitted to new construction energy standards (KFW 55, preferably 40 level).
11ant11 Jul 2017 15:35
Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery is probably what is meant (?)
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wpic11 Jul 2017 15:48
This could have been either an air-to-air heat pump and/or a mechanical ventilation system with heat recovery, including a combination of both types of equipment. As mentioned, this is only worthwhile for extremely well-insulated or energy-renovated buildings.

The selection and sizing of the heating and cooling components should be made in connection with other energy renovation measures for the building and must not be arbitrary or based on personal preference.

For a property built in 1960, extensive action is required. Before deciding to take over or buy this property, you should be sure that you can cover the follow-up costs for the (energy) renovation, modernization, and any potential remodeling work.
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Alex85
11 Jul 2017 15:52
Especially since it is difficult to bring air into the rooms at all without renewing the screed or lowering the ceiling. The pipes need to be installed somewhere for this.
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CiJay
11 Jul 2017 16:15
The house has never had more work done than absolutely necessary. I can’t check the current condition right now because everything is in storage due to a pipe burst some time ago, but the energy certificate was a disaster—somewhere in the red zone.

Everything here needs to be redone. The roof (hasn’t even been insulated so far), complete electrical system (replacement of wiring plus adding many more outlets), exterior insulation, insulation of the basement ceiling, windows.
In addition, there are things we would like to change ourselves for aesthetic reasons, such as a new bathroom, doors, and possibly a balcony or a staircase with direct access to the garden (currently we always have to walk around the house, but we really like living here and actually prefer the upper floor).

We are still looking into what is possible, what is necessary, and whether it all makes financial sense in the end. We will inherit the house, but with someone who has no interest in it.

It’s complicated, but long story short, my husband wants to be carried out feet first here. So now I am checking what must be done, what can be done, and what is feasible. If it ends up costing me as much as a typical house, I don’t mind, even if the amount of work is greater. The area is great, and I really enjoy living here. There are only eight houses here, and they are all essentially passed down through inheritance. No more houses are allowed to be built; the rest is industrial area (the houses were a city planning mistake back then). So we won’t find a replacement nearby or in a similar area.
Although Boris is a bit small, the quality of life is exceptional and very good. I always call this the most underrated residential area in the whole city. ;-)