The Active Systems are the mechanical systems for heating, cooling and ventilation. In most climates and most building concepts, active systems are required to keep the thermal comfort and the indoor air quality on a high level. A high-performance building cannot be designed without the knowledge about the active systems. The right balance between the active systems and the passive design needs to be found to design an economic and ecologic feasible building.

Active Systems

Overview (Active Systems)

This section provides an overview of the mechanical systems in buildings. A focus is on how to choose the active systems. Recommendations are given.

Air Handling (Air Supply)

This section describes how the Indoor Air Quality is provided in the building. Natural Ventilation and Mechanical Ventilation can be used to provide the fresh air into the building.

Energy Conversion (Heating / Cooling Unit)

Energy Conversion describes the technical system that provides the heat or cold. The expression energy conversion is derived from the fact that energy is converted from one form into the other. In a boiler, chemical energy is converted into thermal energy. Modern heat pump systems as well as common systems are described in this section.

Energy Distribution

Energy Distribution describes the way how the heat or cold will get to the occupants. In general, the energy distribution systems are classified in air systems and hydronic systems. In most cases, the air systems require a mechanical ventilation. The hydronic systems are based on water distributions. The radiant floor heating system is a typical hydronic system. Air systems and hydronic systems can be combined.

Warm Water Heating

The Warm Water Heating system is an important part of the active systems in buildings. The most common systems are described.

Systems Integration

This section describes the best way how the mechanical systems can be integrated into the building. Recommendations are provided and examples are illustrated.