COMMERCIAL
What to Consider
In the UK, Building Regulations set out the minimum standards for any development and in particular, when it comes to heating in the commercial sector, the regulation Part L2 covers new build and refurbishment. Part L sets clear and well-defined targets for the fabric of the building and the equipment used, in addition, Part L encourages a holistic approach to the compliance process.
Other government initiatives include the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) which is issued to buildings when sold, leased, or rented. Under the EPC initiative the structure’s carbon performance must be highlighted, and, for public buildings, there is a legal requirement to Display the Energy Certificate in a highly visible and prominent position.
The Government’s Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency Scheme (CRC EES) emphasises the need to reduce carbon output through taxation, whilst the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), Feed-in Tariffs (Fits) and Green Deal initiative all encourage the use of new technologies in the commercial sector.
Whilst radiators have been primarily associated with residential developments and replacement domestic heating systems, radiators still provide a viable option for architects, developers, and specifiers in the commercial property sector. Developments in designs and technologies make radiators an aesthetically pleasing and energy efficient choice of heat emitter for any commercial development. In addition, colour is a fairly new concept in the commercial sector where it’s now possible to match or contrast radiators to corporate or office interior colour schemes or simply to create unique and positive environments in commercial buildings and workplaces.
Commercial developers and building designers must cater not only to regulation but to the pressures of the modern-day working environments and therefore factors such as the surface temperature of the heat emitter, sharpness of any edges of the heat emitter and access to controls such as valves and thermostats must be at the forefront of any specification. With an increasing number of the population suffering from allergies heating solutions that avoid the recycling of forced air are critical. In addition, carbon footprint, access, locations, and positioning of the heat emitter are all vital in the planning and selection process.
At Clyde, we also appreciate that installation timeframes within commercial developments are paramount and therefore ensuring the on-time delivery, in full and in-line with installation timescales are vital. We pride ourselves on providing flexible and versatile solutions for the commercial industry.
Our dedicated and experienced team of technical advisors and estimators are happy to work with you to develop and deliver on the detailed needs and considerations of your project specification.
Steel Panel Radiators
When considering commercial developments, we appreciate that no two projects are alike, and therefore the range and sizing solutions are key. Our range of Clyde Panel Radiators are often the heat emitter of choice, our Flat and Linear Panel Radiators meet many of the design considerations for specifiers and contractors, including.
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Vast and versatile range of sizes and options
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Small volumes of warm water to operate efficiently
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Work effectively with a variety of heat sources
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Convectors and Radiator Types to support thermal and space efficiency
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Flexible connection options to support varying pipework connections
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Supporting Thermostatic Valves (TRVs) for ease of control and comfort
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Efficient and cost-effective installation
Clyde Panel Radiators also work effectively alongside underfloor heating, and it is possible to use the same heating water for both. The latest SAP 2012 document has specific criteria for energy-efficient low-temperature heat generators and states that radiators are as efficient as other heat emission systems, such as underfloor heating.
Low Surface Temperature Radiators (LTS's)
At Clyde we offer a range of Low Surface Temperature (LSTs) that we believe meet many of the design considerations for building designers, specifiers and contractors, including:
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Low Surface Temperature
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Rounded Corners and Edges
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Flexible Connection and TRV Options
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Tamper Proof Controls
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Pencil-Proof Grilles
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Bespoke Design and Size Options
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Ease of Installation
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Low Water Content
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Thermal Performance - Tested and Accredited to BS-EN442 at BSRIA
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Ease of Cleaning
Benefits of Clyde LST's
The benefits of LSTs over conventional steel panel radiators in commercial environments are clear, where the surface temperature of steel panel radiators is hot to touch and can be for prolonged periods of use, Clyde LSTs are designed with surface temperature safety in mind. In addition, due to the aluminium converter, the LST range from Clyde in comparison to standard steel panel radiators have a lower water content, which could potentially reduce energy and running costs.
The single-piece LST outer casing also includes pencil-proof grilles which allow for fluid convection and airflow but protect those who are vulnerable from coming into direct contact with the convector.
Unlike conventional steel panel radiators and due to the natural properties of the aluminium convector, Clyde LSTs heat up quickly and provide sufficient convection to reach ambient room temperature rapidly. The LST outer casing can also house the emitter controls which provide tamper-proof control but can be easily removed for access and cleaning purposes.
For installers or contractors, the Clyde range of LSTs can be supplied to suit the build schedule with phased deliveries to allow first fix installation of the convector and a fast second fix of the single-piece casing, which means less time needed on site.
Trench Heating
In commercial developments which incorporate communal spaces, glass atriums, receptions or where space is a premium Clyde’s Trench Heating solution is a worthwhile consideration, much like the LST, Trench Heating contains an aluminium convector and supports much of the LST properties such as convection, safety and security, tamper proof control and low water content however Trench heating can be concealed or positioned within the floor and finished with a range of decorative grilles to act as the primary heat source.
To find out more about Clyde’s range of Steel Panel Radiators, LST’s and Trench Heating contact us on 01342 305550 or via email info@clyderadiators.co.uk or why not click on one of the product options below.
