Comfort, Speed, Efficiency: Prefab Heating and Cooling Solutions Drive Renovation in Belgium

Prefabricated HVAC systems have emerged as a game-changing innovation in the construction industry, offering a more efficient and cost-effective way to build and renovate homes across Europe. This was the case in Brasschaat, Belgium, where a two-story home underwent remodeling using Pipelife's prefabricated hydronic heating and cooling solutions. The project has set a benchmark for sustainable home improvements, highlighting how prefabrication can help address tight completion schedules and technical limitations.

_{Unlocking Energy-Efficiency in Renovation}

As Europe's building stock continues to age, outdated heating and cooling systems are placing an increasing financial burden on homeowners. Approximately 40 million Europeans struggle to heat their homes properly, revealing the scale of energy poverty across the continent and the urgent need to accelerate renovation efforts.

Upgrading a building's HVAC system can significantly enhance its energy efficiency, improve indoor comfort and reduce utility bills. However, renovation projects often present specific technical challenges, and many homeowners may not be fully aware of how to balance their remodeling efforts to create a comfortable living environment while boosting property value, cutting energy consumption and lowering environmental impact. Providing tailored, comprehensive customer support and taking an individualized approach to each project remain essential to achieving these goals.

_{From Floor to Ceiling: A Tailored Approach} 

In spring 2024, an extensive renovation project was carried out in a privately owned, two-story home in Brasschaat, Belgium. The homeowner had recently purchased the building and was looking to refurbish it to ensure the house meets current standards for comfort and energy efficiency. It was also crucial that the renovations could be carried out as fast as possible as the owner hoped to move in a couple of months.

The owner was already familiar with the benefits of underfloor heating and planned to use such a system on the ground floor, which required extensive renovation, together with an air-to-water heat pump. The upper floor, on the other hand, had a well-preserved wooden floor that didn't need replacement; thus, the homeowner's initial idea was to install an air-to-air heat pump.

During a consultation with Pipelife's representative, the house's required heating and cooling loads were calculated, making it easier to compare the pros and cons of various HVAC systems available. The homeowner had previously not considered other hydronic solutions, including wall and ceiling systems, which could offer higher energy efficiency and comfort.

_{Seamless Installation, Reliable Performance}

The installation was carried out by the contractor Reflow Solutions known for its focus on sustainability, innovation and customer-centric solutions. While this was the first time the contractor worked with Pipelife's prefab systems, the project team was impressed with how quick and straightforward the panels and mats were to install.

Pipelife also supplied two prefabricated manifolds, wireless thermostats, and zone controllers — offering a highly reliable, complete solution that will allow the homeowner to take nuanced control of his heating and cooling setup for optimal indoor comfort and energy efficiency year-round. 

_{Breaking New Ground}

This project marked the first time Pipelife's prefabricated heating and cooling systems were used in Belgium, introducing a new energy-efficient HVAC solution to the market. While prefabricated systems are typically used in large-scale construction, the Brasschaat renovation demonstrates the advantages of prefab construction in smaller projects, particularly when technical and time constraints must be addressed.