Study finds current energy loss estimates for homes may be inaccurate
What happened
Researchers from Leeds Beckett University and the University of Salford studied heat loss in a typical 1930s semi-detached home. They found that small weak spots, known as thermal bridges, can significantly increase heat escape even after insulation is applied. The study noted that a carefully designed whole-house retrofit reduced the home’s heat transfer coefficient by up to 63% using external wall insulation and 61% using internal wall insulation compared to the original building.
Why it matters
The researchers warn that common default figures for estimating heat loss are often not representative, particularly after homes undergo piecemeal insulation retrofits. This is relevant because energy models are used to predict improvements to Britain’s housing stock and inform frameworks including Energy Performance Certificates and retrofit assessments.
Who's involved
- Leeds Beckett UniversityConducted research on heat loss from a typical 1930s home
- University of SalfordConducted research on heat loss from a typical 1930s home
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- Leeds Beckett UniversitySpeculative
The housing retrofit industry might face changes in required standards or costs for insulation projects if current heat loss estimates are found to be inaccurate.
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The entities involved
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Leeds Beckett University
university in Leeds, England, United Kingdom
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University of Salford
public research university in Salford, Greater Manchester
Nothing else this week.