Cost-effective MEP solutions for a Passivhaus multi-family building in Mediterranean climate

Abstract

A compact integrated unit for heating, cooling and mechanical controlled ventilation as a perfect solution for a Passivhaus certified multi-family building in Southern Italy (warm climate). An individual application for each apartment helping the single customer to achieve an autonomous control of each thermal parameters, reducing cost and installation plant's complexity. The compact system consists of a heat pump capable of recovering the extraction air flow heat to transfer it to the renewal air flow and to a domestic hot water tank. The extraction and renewal flows, pass through a recovery heat exchanger with high efficiency, in order to maximize the energy performance of the whole unit. To cover peak loads, related to the climatic conditions and user behaviour, a split system unit is used for air conditioning by recirculate the internal air. The unit allows a thermal integration function, cooling and dehumidification. The treated supplementary air, is delivered to the rooms through a specific distribution and the internal unit is located in the ceiling in a central part of the flat. A control system permits the operation of both the units comparing the measured parameters to the required comfort set point.