Heat Distribution in Buildings

In this course you will learn how to decide on efficient combinations of energy conversion systems accounting for available heat sources, and how to distribute and control air and energy flows in buildings whilst minimizing carbon emissions and optimizing thermal comfort. To do this, you will learn about:

- Rational no regret use of heat sources in relation to acceptable temperature levels in buildings en neighbourhoods, depending on building's insulation standard

- Relationship between building systems and large-scale outdoor systems (like ATES or geothermal)

- Air handling systems and properties of Humid air. Humidification/de-humidification, and related energy use

- Distribution of heat/cold by air systems and low/high temperature

- Distribution of heat/cold by hydronic systems and low/high temperature

- Distribution of heat/cold by mixed systems

- Room emitters and thermal comfort

- Basics of control in HVAC systems

- Thermal buffers and zoning

- Designing a complete renewable-based energy systems for a a building (energy demand, energy supply, distribution)

- Example of a complex building including heat pump, ATES, solar collectors, PV, free air cooling and distribution to multiple rooms