Energy performance of low temperature heating systems in five new-built Swedish dwellings: A case study using simulations and on-site measurements

In Europe, high energy consumption in built environments has raised the need for developing low energy heating systems both in new building and in retrofitting of existing buildings. This paper aims to contribute by presenting annual results of calculated and measured energy consumption in five new-built semi-detached dwellings in Stockholm, Sweden. All buildings were equipped with similar low temperature heating systems combining under-floor heating and ventilation radiators. Exhaust ventilation heat pumps supported the low temperature heating system. Buildings were modeled using the energy simulation tool IDA Indoor Climate and Energy (ICE) 4, and energy consumption of the heat pumps was measured. Results showed that calculated and measured results were generally in agreement for all five dwellings, and that the buildings not only met energy requirements of the Swedish building regulations but also provided good thermal comfort.

► A ventilation radiator is one type of low temperature heating systems.
► Energy performance in buildings with ventilation radiators was investigated.
► Dwellings with ventilation radiator met Swedish energy requirements for buildings.
► Ventilation radiators provided a good level of thermal comfort.