Sustainable Solutions and Services

There are many common misconceptions about building green. The section below addresses some of the most common questions we receive.

Does it cost more to build green?
With TermoBuild you will not pay more for building green. TermoBuild method reduces the sizing of HVAC and mechanical systems, making electrical main service smaller and reducing wasted ceiling space, which helps to eliminate any guess work during the initial design stage.

 

How do I know this is the right “green” building for me?
Years of experience have taught us that the laws of physics and nature work equally well all over this planet, in any climate. Through careful planning, precision engineering and attention to even the smallest details, time again, the principles of honesty and high quality have proven themselves. As specialists in thermal mass and energy storage, we know how to link mechanical systems with building structures and extract the hidden value of dormant concrete. This established method allows ordinary heating and cooling systems to deliver radiant comfort, sustainability and value to many buildings at or below conventional costs. It is bridging the gap between green demand and purchasing capacity that is under stress.

Ducts and Diffusers
What type of duct work and diffusers should be used?

The ductwork in the TermoBuild system does not differ from a simple traditional system. The TermoBuild system signifies simple and flexible system for distribution of supply air. The position of main ducts is similar to conventional system used when supplying air through diffusers. The difference is that ducts are connected to the core in the hollow slabs instead of directly to the diffusers.
Air Diffusers
Using the TermoBuild system implies greater flexibility regarding choice of room supply air system and diffusers. Almost any of the diffusers produced in North America today can be assembled in the TermoBuild system.

The air distribution branch ducts are connected to the system of cores in the slabs. An extension of the duct has in fact has been created, giving a great flexibility for placing of the diffusers.
HVAC zoning in thermally active buildings follow same design considerations as in any conventional building. It should consider spaces with similar loads, different exposures and duration. Depending on internal loads and orientation, different zones in a building have different needs for heating and cooling. To summarize: Zoning in thermally active buildings should be same as in a traditional ventilation system, these calls for separate supply air systems or distinct zoning.
Ventilation rates usually exceed ASHRAE’s minimum 62.0 fresh air requirements and a variety of spaces in the building will feel well-ventilated.
Exhaust Air- Recirculation. Generally, air re-circulation is only used overnight, that is, during non-occupied hours. It is used in winter when heating is needed and in hot climates when night pre-cooling is required. See also “Cooling battery” or “heating battery” below.
Booster systems. Rooms with highly variable loads may require a booster system to compensate for these extreme types of conditions.

Carpet and Heated Floors
The advantages of energy efficiency provided through comfortable heat sources have made radiant floors (radiant air) increasingly popular in many parts of the country. Often referred to as “hydronic” radiant heated and cooled floors, this system has been popular in Europe for many years. Our method uses air instead of wet systems and delivers a more stable low temperature through open loop hollow core slabs. Most conventional carpet is suitable for use over radiant heated floors, however it is advisable to confirm with our engineers prior to selection.

False Ceilings and Sound Absorbents
To enable the accumulation of internal surplus heat in the building frame, the surfaces must be accessible. TermoBuild engineers take into account various ceiling types and offer suitable heat exchange Solutions between the space and thermal storage.

Is it really possible to save on energy consumption costs in the long-term?
Yes, saving energy begins from the moment your TermoBuild building is constructed. TermoBuild works with the same cooling and heating equipment that worked best for you in the past, but makes it more powerful and less costly.
Reliability
Failure of any component in the HVAC or Control system does not represent an emergency. The thermal lag of the building is capable to maintain comfortable conditions for several hours compared to conventional systems.

What does TermoBuild offer?
With growing demand for greener strategies, it’s not surprising that so many vendors are developing products that will fit in well with zero energy and reduced consumption patterns. Thermal storage and “smart” floors further enhance the business case of greener strategies by smoothing day and night time peaks and valleys in power demand. This in turn is reducing total installed capacity of PV or Wind power and reduces initial capital cost to construct.

Demand Peak Load Reduction. Refer to green tip #1

Zero Energy Buildings. Smart thermal storage linked to Solar PV or Wind accelerates payback. It also helps mature technologies like Ground Source Heat Pumps, Solar Thermal and to benefit in a similar way.

Our Services consist of: thermal design at initial planning stage and inputs for architects and engineers. Filed services consist of specialized services, supply of parts aiding in hollow core structure adaptation for thermal storage and interface with mechanical systems. Detailed scope of work can be provided for specific projects.
Download our latest application notes and/or contact us for additional information on this innovative solution to your power and thermal management challenges. Marcel Setiadi at 1-866 628 1110 or e-mail: msetiadi@termobuild.com