Existing Building Heating Retrofit
Case 14: Existing Building Heating Retrofit (Targeting European Markets)
Project Objective: Showcase upgrading solutions for legacy heating systems targeting European markets, focusing on high energy efficiency and reusing existing heat emitters.
Area: 180 ㎡
Climate Conditions: European temperate oceanic climate with mild winter temperatures, but an extended heating season running annually from November to March.
Project Requirements: The legacy gas boiler system was aging, suffering from high energy consumption and heavy carbon emissions; require a high-efficiency and eco-friendly retrofit while retaining existing radiator terminals, shortening construction periods without displacing current residents.
Solution Overview
Removed the legacy 24kW gas boiler (thermal efficiency of 82%, annual gas cost of approx. €1,800, high carbon emissions); replaced it with a 10kW air source heat pump unit fully compatible with existing radiators. Equipped with a buffer tank and weather compensator to automatically adjust supply water temperature based on outdoor conditions. Post-retrofit, the overall system thermal efficiency increased to 300%(COP=3.0), annual operating costs dropped to approx. €700, and carbon emissions were reduced by 65%. The entire retrofit took only 3 days without requiring residents to move out, achieving a rapid upgrade.
