What does the obligation of low temperature heating entail?
For building permit applications from 2023, EPB regulations (through the Energy Decree) will require a low-temperature heating system in new construction if a central heating system with water as the delivery medium is chosen. The requirement applies to both residential and non-residential buildings. This requirement will ensure that all new construction can choose a sustainable generator (such as a heat pump) without any problems, even if one would still choose a hybrid heat pump or a gas boiler in the meantime.
What is low-temperature heating?
Low-temperature heating is a form of heating in which the temperature of the heat source is lower than in traditional heating. As a result, heat is transferred to the room at a lower temperature. We speak of low temperature when the flow temperature of the water to the delivery elements is between 35°C and 45°C. For underfloor heating you are more likely to go around 35°C and for radiators this will be slightly higher and can go up to 45°C. The lower this temperature, the better for the efficiency of the heating system and the heat source. Also for air heating coils in ventilation groups, the temperature can be limited to 45°C.
What are the implications of this obligation
This new requirement means the following for building permit applications beginning in 2023:
- The design flow temperature must not exceed 45°C. The dimensioning of the delivery system must take this into account. This is calculated using a heat loss calculation.
- The design departure temperature must be substantiated through a conforming sizing note.
- If this condition is not met, the requirement on the E-level will tighten by 15%. This is analogous to not meeting the minimum renewable energy requirement. If the requirement for 'low temperature heating system' is not met and the minimum share of renewable energy is not met, this leads to a tightening of the E-level by 30%!
Can low-temperature heating also be used in existing buildings?
Yes, you can. Heating buildings fossil-free and using heat pumps usually requires low-temperature heating.
There are several ways to apply low temperature heating in existing buildings, depending on the current HVAC systems and the structural situation.Which adaptations are most appropriate for your building depends on your specific situation.
For this, it is recommended to seek professional advice from a heating expert. This heating expert will identify the most sustainable and efficient implementation of low temperature heating.
Would you have liked more info on your specific situation? Contact our heating expert Joris Dedecker at joris.dedecker@ingenium.be or call 050 40 45 30.
