A new way to retrofit old buildings ... from the outside
Sep 25, 2024
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David Goldstein, founder of Hydronic Shell Technologies, shares insights on innovative building retrofitting. He discusses a groundbreaking technology that envelops old multifamily structures in insulated panels with integrated HVAC systems, enhancing energy efficiency without disturbing residents. The conversation highlights challenges faced in New York City regarding regulatory changes and the importance of effective ventilation. Goldstein emphasizes how these upgrades can significantly reduce energy demand and carbon emissions while balancing tradition with innovation.
The Hydronic Shell Technologies' FIMS approach retrofits old multifamily buildings externally, providing energy-efficient upgrades with minimal tenant disruption.
By utilizing prefabricated insulated panels and centralized heat pumps, this method significantly reduces energy demand while improving indoor air quality.
Although initial investments can be challenging, the long-term cost savings and regulatory pressures make FIMS a viable decarbonization solution for aging buildings.
Deep dives
Challenges of Retrofitting Old Buildings
Old multifamily residences contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, with many lacking proper insulation and using inefficient heating systems. These buildings often require extensive renovations to meet net-zero energy targets, yet such retrofits can be prohibitively expensive and disruptive for tenants. The challenge intensifies when construction is disruptive within occupied spaces, necessitating a solution that minimizes tenant discomfort while maximizing efficiency. Therefore, addressing the decarbonization of these high-emission buildings is crucial for achieving broader climate goals.
Innovative Exterior Retrofitting with FIMS
A groundbreaking approach introduced by Hydronic Shell Technologies involves installing an insulated façade on the exterior of buildings, transforming it into a comprehensive energy-efficient system. This facade integrates HVAC components, allowing for the deployment of central heat pumps while minimizing invasive work inside the building. Known as facade integrated mechanical systems (FIMS), this method utilizes prefabricated insulated panels that fit together like puzzle pieces, making retrofitting not only feasible but also less disruptive. By focusing on external improvements, this system significantly reduces the energy demand of older buildings without displacing residents.
Components of the FIMS Approach
The FIMS approach comprises four primary components: central heating and cooling equipment, distribution ducts and pipes, insulated façade panels, and terminal units located at the windows. Central equipment, often a heat pump, generates heating and cooling, with ductwork distributing tempered air throughout the building. Additionally, insulated panels enhance energy efficiency by replacing outdated windows and integrating necessary HVAC components seamlessly. This cohesive system allows for significant energy reductions while ensuring adequate ventilation for improved indoor air quality.
Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality
A critical aspect of the FIMS system is addressing the ventilation requirements of tightly sealed buildings, ensuring that fresh air circulation remains a priority. The system includes a dedicated ventilation unit that treats outside air, filtering and tempering it before distributing it into residents' living spaces. By incorporating this ventilation system, the FIMS approach not only combats existing indoor air quality issues prevalent in older buildings but also prevents moisture buildup between the façade and the existing structure, which can lead to health risks. This comprehensive attention to ventilation represents a significant step toward improving the living conditions of residents, particularly in outdated multifamily housing.
Financial Viability and Market Potential
While the FIMS system presents an initial investment challenge, it offers potential long-term cost savings through reduced energy consumption and lower maintenance needs. By protecting existing building facades and integrating efficient HVAC technology, building owners can significantly cut operational costs over time. Financing models play a crucial role in making these retrofits financially feasible, allowing building owners to implement upgrades without the upfront financial burden. Moreover, as urban areas face tightening regulations on emissions, the market demand for cost-effective decarbonization solutions will continue to rise, positioning FIMS as a leading strategy in the green building retrofit landscape.
In this episode, I geek out with David Goldstein, founder of Hydronic Shell Technologies, about a novel building retrofit technology that wraps old multifamily structures in insulated panels with built-in HVAC systems. Goldstein's approach allows for energy-efficient upgrades without interior disruption, potentially solving a major challenge in building decarbonization. We dive into how the system combines exterior insulation, air sealing, and centralized heat pumps with individual window units to dramatically reduce energy demand and emissions.
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