Proven concept now also as a central solution

Klimaatgroep Holland's ScholenºConcept is now a proven method that has already been used in more than 10,000 classrooms. The decentralized all-in-one ventilation unit ventilates, heats and cools the classroom fully automatically. In November, Klimaatgroep Holland will also launch a centrally driven system that incorporates all the advantages of the existing concept.

The existing units operate completely independently with their own fans. In addition to ventilating, heating and cooling, blinds and lighting can be connected to them. Sensors measure the temperature, CO2 level and the presence of people in the room. Based on these measurements, the air is distributed draught-free in the room. As standard, the units are connected to Klimaatgroep Holland's control room, which monitors the system 24/7. The school receives its own log-in data to always have insight into the measured values.

The advantage of a decentralized system is that you need fewer ducts within the building. An additional effect is that the unit, which is built into the suspended ceiling, must have a connection to the outside for air supply and extraction. Architects know how to handle this well and come up with wonderful solutions. There is something to be said for both a decentralized and a central ventilation system, which is why Klimaatgroep Holland developed a unit that is fed by the central air handling unit, but can be controlled per room. "We bundled all the advantages of the existing system into the new solution," says director Harry Vaatstra. "You have the technology, but no more fan in the classroom. There you still see four grilles and a control panel. Because you need more ductwork, it's especially suitable for new construction."

With this new development, Klimaatgroep Holland accommodates all its customers. It is up to the consultant or architect to decide whether to choose a central or decentralized system. Vaatstra: "With both methods you achieve Frisse Scholen class B, with the new concept you can even achieve class A. We continued our integrated home automation in this line. We have emphasized comfort. The noise level is low and the air volumes also meet class A."

Sensors are used to measure CO2 and attendance within classrooms. This data can be linked directly to the building management system. This also looks at electricity consumption, after which lights and devices are shut off when they are on unnecessarily. A good example is the IWB, which often consumes power 24/7. Vaatstra: "We monitor the energy and so we can see per room if there is an outlier. That is automatically passed on to the control room. The school's energy consumption is reduced that way. Faults or irregularities are also automatically transmitted through the system to the control room, so we can solve it. The school does not have to keep checking the data itself."

Although the new ventilation is powered by a central unit, all classrooms can be heated and cooled separately. If the temperatures in each classroom are different, for example due to the location of the building in relation to the sun, energy can be exchanged between them. Thanks to heat recovery with 100% separate airflows, very energy-efficient operation is achieved. "The unit is powered by water and does not use refrigerants. For the heat pump, you can use a natural refrigerant. If you do that, then you are completely ready for the future. I am very happy with this latest development. It is a wonderful addition to the successful concept we already had," said Vaatstra.

The units come out in three building sizes: 1,800 m3 for Fresh Schools Class A, 1,250 m3 for Class B and 850 m3 for nurseries.