Schwank Heaters Thrive On Ecodesign Energy Targets

The EU Ecodesign Directive is having a major impact in driving technological improvements in the energy efficiency of heating products and in reducing the carbon emissions from buildings. Its influence is welcomed by Schwank, whose comprehensive range of high efficiency gas fired infrared radiant heaters meet and exceed compliance targets.

With accurate temperature control, modulation, precise application of heating zones and short heat-up times, Schwank’s radiant heating solutions consistently prove their worth in energy efficiency, achieving energy cost reductions of between 30% and 50% when compared to conventional systems. Their flexibility makes them a preferred choice for heating industrial and commercial buildings as well as a wide range of venues from football stadiums to aircraft hangars.

Schwank radiant heaters work on similar principles to the sun’s rays, penetrating the air without heating it and only converting to energy on reaching the people and objects where heat is needed. Input heat is reduced so less heaters are required, cutting both energy consumption and installation costs.

The EU Directive on Ecodesign (2009/125/EC) establishes the framework for reducing the environmental impact of energy-related products (ErPs), setting standards on energy consumption, waste generation, emissions control and other related issues. HVAC systems are strongly affected by the Directive. For instance, new draft ErP regulations relate specifically to solid fuel boilers and the notification states: “In accordance with the Ecodesign Directive 2009/125/EC, products not meeting these requirements will not be allowed to be placed on the EU market.”

The Directive has also highlighted the fact that ErPs with similar functional performances display different degrees of environmental impact: “Many energy-related products have a significant potential for being improved in order to reduce environmental impacts and achieve energy savings through better design which also leads to economic savings for businesses and end users.”

Steve Sherman, Managing Director of Schwank UK, explained that the EU recognised the vital importance of improving the energy efficiency in buildings, since this sector was responsible for almost 40% of the final energy consumption in Europe. “The high energy efficiency and environmental benefits of gas fired infrared systems put them at the forefront of heating options as more stringent targets for reductions in energy use and carbon emissions are demanded from ErPs in the future.”