New build solutions for schools

When it comes to education, creating a good indoor climate has been shown to have a positive effect on learning. If a classroom is heated evenly and an optimal temperature is maintained, students will be able to focus more easily, whereas an overheated classroom can quickly cause a decreased learning rate.

A school heating and cooling solution needs to be suitable for summer as well as winter. On top of that, the system needs to be quiet so as not to disturb the students, have reliable controls, and be energy efficient. With rapidly changing heat loads on weekdays, and empty rooms at night and on weekends, the heating system needs to respond rapidly.

To meet NHS Estates Health Guidance Notes and the Education (School Premises) Regulations, Low Surface Temperature (LST) radiators are still a popular choice for heating in new build schools. Classic panel radiators and column radiators are also a popular choice but fan convectors, like the iVector S2, and radiant heating, like underfloor heating, are also becoming more pospular as they free up wall space.

Sufficient heating is of course important, but keeping a classroom cool can also be quite a challenge. The heat load generated by the students, combined with the direct solar radiation coming in through the windows can really push the temperature up. Window ventilation can provide some cooling, but in most cases mechanical cooling is required. Since the cooling power demand is typically quite high in a classroom, we recommend using a ceiling cooling system. This operates quietly and cools efficiently as the cold air drops and is spread evenly throughout the room.

Combining adequate heating, cooling and ventilation in a new build school is a complex exercise that requires good insights into the various factors at play. Our in-house experts are happy to support you in the design and planning of a suitable heating and cooling solution for any new build school. Don’t hesitate to contact us for advice tailored to your project.