OMNIE takes control of your home, improving your health, well-being and lifestyle. OMNIE products work together to improve your health and well-being, creating a comfortable and healthy living space, whilst also helping the environment and reducing the running costs of your home. The complimentary heating and ventilation technologies integrate into a single whole house system with controls that manage all the technologies together in a simple intuitive way.
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More comfortable living
Improved health and well-being
Complete design freedom
More energy efficient
Environmentally friendly
Having a living space that is at the right temperature is essential for a comfortable environment. An OMNIE system makes sure you have full control over your environment without the need to constantly change settings or put up with rooms that are either too hot or too cold.
Quite simply, an OMNIE system uses technology that improves your health and well-being at home. Filtered fresh air, free from pollutants, combined with warm radiant heat, gives you the environment you need.
OMNIE systems are unobtrusive in creating the perfect room comfort conditions. Our underfloor heating systems remove the need for steel panel radiators giving you more freedom to do what you want within the room.
A comfortable, healthy environment won’t cost more to run. An OMNIE system uses renewable technologies and energy efficient systems to produce effective heating that doesn’t compromise the comfort you expect to have.
From recovering heat in the ventilation system to absorbing energy from the ground, OMNIE’s whole house system uses low-carbon technologies ensuring cleaner energy for your home and less impact on the environment.
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OMNIE heating, cooling and ventilation products work together to create a comfortable and healthy living space, whilst helping the environment and reducing the running costs of your home.
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Controls Integrated controls are essential to create the ideal comfort conditions throughout the home. Good controls should be intuitive and straightforward to use.
Find out more on page 12
Renewable heat Heat pumps will reduce your running costs and carbon footprint. As heat pumps work more efficiently when producing low-temperature water they are perfectly suited to OMNIE’s high-performance underfloor heating products. Find out more on page 60
Radiant warmth Underfloor heating is considered the most comfortable and energy efficient form of heating. That’s because the feeling we get from the radiant heat produced by an OMNIE underfloor heating system is similar to the heat we get from the sun. Find out more on page 24
Air quality Controlled mechanical ventilation with heat recovery removes stale damp air and replaces it with pre-warmed fresh filtered air creating a healthier environment with less pollutants. Find out more on page 72
Comfort cooling When needed, a surface cooling system provides a low-energy alternative to air conditioning. Chilling a floor or ceiling provides comfort cooling without creating uncomfortable draughts associated with blown cold air. Find out more on page 54
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At OMNIE, we’re so much more than providing cutting edge innovation and great products...
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One company, one system
Trying to integrate different technologies into an effective, efficient system can be difficult. OMNIE has products that are designed to work together as part of a single system.
Tried-and-tested products
At OMNIE, we strive to deliver products and systems that work as they are expected to work through continuous customer-focused product development and exceptional customer support.
Energy consultancy
Experienced and reliable project support
OMNIE guarantee
Every project is different. That is why OMNIE has a team of energy consultants who provide project related advice on the suitability of different types of renewable energy technology.
At OMNIE, we dedicate an experienced Project Manager to look after every aspect of your home project, from initial enquiry through to postinstallation commissioning and maintenance.
We maintain Professional Indemnity and Product Liability insurance which independently protects our customers and their OMNIE systems.
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OMNIE Community provides a network of expert opinion and advice submitted by users of our products and systems. Find an installer or talk technology with like-minded professionals.
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OMNIE Community
Share experiences
Expert advice
Dedicated project support
Find an installer
OMNIE Installer app
The OMNIE Installer App The app not only gives the installer access to the OMNIE community on their smartphone or tablet, but also provides them with an update on the status of an order. The system design, data sheets and install guides can all be accessed and viewed through the app.
The OMNIE Community OMNIE provides access to an online community where those using, installing or specifying OMNIE systems can interact, or simply ask one of our team members a question. So whether you’re looking for an experienced installer, need help with a thermostat or want to see the latest industry news you will find what you need in the OMNIE community.
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The OMNIE System 12. OMNIE Controls
24. Underfloor Heating
54. Surface Cooling
60. Heat Pumps 72. Mechanical Ventilation and Heat Recovery
Here To Help 84. Starting Your Project
86. Training and Advice
88. Values
90. Getting In Touch
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OMNIE Controls Innovative and stylish controls that are easy to use and ensure a comfortable living environment
16. Control Hub
18. Room Sensor
19. OMNIE Network Controls
20. OMNIE Basic Controls
22. Questions and Answers
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Flexible, holistic and intuitive Introducing the OMNIE control system. Effective controls are essential in creating a comfortable living and working environment. This not only means controlling the temperature in a room, but ensuring the system runs only when it is needed. To do this the controls not only have to be accurate but easy to use. The OMNIE system is flexible, holistic and intuitive. It can accurately control the room temperature, program the hot water system and change the ventilation demand through one central touch-screen interface, the Control Hub.
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Easy to use
Holistic
Accessible
OMNIE network controls use a simple, intuitive, central touchscreen display where changes can be easily made to the home comfort settings.
The ventilation, heating and hot water are all controlled by a single system eliminating the complication and possible conflict of separate control systems.
The OMNIE control app provides remote access to the heating system on your smartphone giving you even more flexibility in how your home is controlled.
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Control Hub
The stylish all-in-one touch-screen allows complete control from one simple interface. The OMNIE Control Hub can control the room temperature, program the hot water system and change the ventilation demand through one central touch-screen interface. Four frame styles are available
SPECIFICATIONS
KEY FEATURES
Mounting position Flush mounted
• Easy-to-use interface
Colour options • White or Black • With or without chrome edge Dimensions (mm) WxHxD 141 x 86 x 19 Power Low voltage - 4 Core shielded network cable
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• Stylish and modern design • Ventilation • Hot water • Heating • Cooling
Control app Providing complete control for your system via our smartphone application. Giving you the freedom to control your home from anywhere
Control multiple zones
Simple programming
Intuitive
We recognise that our customers may want to take complete control of the house and change the temperature levels of one or more rooms at any given time. Our OMNIE Control app allows you to do just that.
The OMNIE Control app allows the user to set multiple temperatures for different times of the day, allowing you take complete control over your environment.
The OMNIE Control app has built-in maps monitoring the location of you and your home. You can plan your heating to turn on before your arrival, so you can come home to a comfortable house all year round.
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Sensor OMNIE sensors are installed instead of thermostats in each room. The programming for the heating system is done from the Control Hub. The sensor is very discreet and can be sited anywhere in the room, provided it is not in direct sunlight, covered or near a heat source.
SPECIFICATIONS
KEY FEATURES
SENSOR FINISHES
Mounting position Flush mounted
• Discreet sensor
The OMNIE sensor comes in a variety of finishes to suit different home and room interiors. Some examples are shown below.
Dimensions W x H x D - mm 82 x 88 x 11 Power Low voltage - 4 Core network cable
• No thermostat needed • All settings changed at the Control Hub • Low voltage
Wireless sensor The wireless sensor is suitable for situations where it isn’t possible to run control cables. The sensor uses two AA batteries with an expected life of two to three years.
SPECIFICATIONS
KEY FEATURES
Mounting position Surface mounted
• Easy to retro-fit
Dimensions (mm) 87 x 93 x 28 Power Battery - 2 x AA
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• No thermostat needed • All settings changed at the Controls Hub • Wireless
OMNIE network controls Control Hub
Domestic Hot Water
Wiring Centre
Room Temperature Sensor
Heat Pump/Boiler
Room Temperature and Humidity Sensor
Underfloor Heating
Ventilation Gateway
Ceiling Cooling Smartphone App
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OMNIE basic controls The OMNIE basic controls are an alternative to network controls and used only for underfloor heating systems. Instead of a discreet sensor, a thermostat would be placed in each room to control the room temperature. Each thermostat works independently and has to be individually programmed. Alternatively, dial nonprogrammable thermostats can be used, however, a separate programmer is needed to provide time control.
Wiring Centre
Heat Pump/Boiler
Underfloor Heating
Room Thermostats
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Programmable thermostat The OMNIE programmable thermostat provides full 7-day programmable room control. The discreet thermostat fits into a standard back box and is powered by a permanent 230V mains supply. Each thermostat comes with an optional floor sensor. The floor sensor can be activated to limit the floor temperature where this is required.
SPECIFICATIONS
KEY FEATURES
Mounting position Flush mounted
• Discreet
Dimensions (mm) 85 x 85 x 15
• Large screen • Easy to use
Power 230V
Dial thermostat The non-programmable thermostat available from OMNIE is a simple versatile dial thermostat, which is able to switch a 230V signal.
SPECIFICATIONS
KEY FEATURES
Mounting position Flush mounted
• Simple dial
Dimensions (mm) 85 x 85 x 35
• Easy to use • Modern and stylish
Power 230V
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Common questions How complicated are the network controls to use? Once set up, there is one simple interface that can control the whole heating system. How quickly does it take to set up the controls? With the sensors installed installation is quick and simple as there are not multiple thermostats that each require programming. Will the controls work with a smartphone or tablet? Yes, for the network controls there is an app available that allows changes to be made via a smartphone or tablet. Where is the Control Hub positioned? On the wall in a convenient position, usually in the hall. How do I make a temperature adjustment if I’m too hot or too cold? All changes are made from the Control Hub. However, unlike a conventional programmer for a radiator system, you can select individual rooms rather than the whole system.
T: 01392 36 36 05 E: projects@omnie.co.uk W: www.omnie.co.uk
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Underfloor Heating The most comfortable form of heating 26. Why OMNIE Underfloor Heating?
29. How Does It Work?
32. Working with Heat Pumps
34. Underfloor Heating Products
47. Pipe and Manifolds
50. Floor Finishes and Concrete Screeds
52. Performance and Design
53. Questions and Answers
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Why OMNIE underfloor heating? Not only does underfloor heating create a better use of space, it’s also more efficient
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Design With decades of experience, the OMNIE team has developed a range of products that take the guesswork and mystery out of underfloor heating. OMNIE products are easy to configure with known, independently-tested heat outputs.
Warmth and comfort Underfloor heating warms a room using radiant heat and this is more comfortable than heating a room by air alone, as you do with radiators. We get a similar feeling of comfort from the sun.
Well-being
Renewables
Efficiency
Underfloor heating provides a balanced level of radiant heat and air warming. If the heating is provided by high air temperatures this can dry the skin and eyes. Warming the floor also reduces the occurrence of dust mites that cause allergies.
In general, renewable heat is easier to produce efficiently at low water temperatures. Good underfloor heating uses low temperature water and this is why these systems are best suited to renewable energy.
OMNIE products are designed specifically to work at low water temperatures, improving the efficiency of the heat pump, reducing running costs and saving you money.
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How does it work? Create a comfortable home with underfloor heating
Underfloor heating works by circulating warm water through pipe embedded within the floor construction. Heat from the pipe is transferred into the floor and then into the room, providing enough warmth to heat the building all year round. This removes the need for radiators by making more effective use of the space, as well as eliminating any high temperature surfaces. An underfloor heating system generally has a surface temperature between 250C and 270C, lower than the palm of your hand. A conventional radiator can be as hot as 750C. The way in which underfloor heating transfers heat is also different to a radiator. Radiators transfer energy principally by convection, heating the air above and around the radiator causing the air to rise. As the warmed air is more buoyant than the cooler air in the room it will rise to the ceiling. The warmed air, as it crosses the ceiling, will begin to cool and then fall creating a draught.
Ideal comfort
Underfloor hea ng
Radiator hea ng
16* 22* 24*
16* 22* 24*
16* 22* 24*
Underfloor heating is much closer to the ideal room comfort profile than radiator heating.
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What makes OMNIE different? Make savings on heat output and improve performance with OMNIE systems Different underfloor heating products vary in performance, so it is important to choose the right system for your home. OMNIE underfloor heating products are specifically designed to ensure the best possible performance in terms of efficiency, heat output and warm-up time.
As a result of good product design, OMNIE’s Torfloor outperforms generic underfloor heating diffuser plates ensuring lower running costs, faster warm-up and better heat output.
TorFloor
is 55% BETTER TorFloor
SAVES 19%
Running cost
OMNIE TorFloor Generic heat diffuser plate
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Heat output and warm-up time
Did you know? Our award-winning underfloor heating system TorFloor can help reduce your heating bills by up to 30% compared to traditional radiators.
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OMNIE underfloor heating is perfectly designed for heat pumps Reduce your running costs Low temperature OMNIE underfloor heating works well with ground and air source heat pumps. Not only will a system that is designed to work at low temperatures reduce running costs, but also will benefit from increased Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) payments. The range of underfloor heating products from OMNIE are designed to minimise the temperature of the water needed for your home.
Designed to be future proof It is important that any heating system should be designed with the future in mind. If you install a heating system which depends on high water temperatures it is impractical to change in the future to a heat source which provides water at low temperatures. Every heating system should now be designed to enable the homeowner to retrofit renewable technologies in the future. This involves designing the system for the lowest possible water temperature.
RHI, Heat Pumps and OMNIE underfloor heating The domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) is now available as a payment for using renewable energy heat sources. This payment is linked to the calculated energy consumption of the property. As heat pumps use electricity to generate heat, the RHI is only paid on the renewable component of the building heat load and this is dependent on the efficiency of the heat pump. An efficient heat pump and low water temperature underfloor heating will use less electricity and therefore the RHI payment will be higher.
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OMNIE can improve SAP ratings What is a SAP rating? A SAP rating is a calculation to predict the energy performance for new dwellings. The SAP rating takes into account insulation levels and the types of renewable energy products used in the building. The higher the rating the better the building’s predicted energy performance.
OMNIE UFH and SAP OMNIE Underfloor heating products for timber constructions, or ‘dry constructions’, have a faster warm-up and cool down time than underfloor heating in screed floors. This reduces the possibility of overheating and improves efficiency. Also, when compared to radiators, underfloor heating is more efficient when used with a heat pump.
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SAP Rating
Traditional Radiator
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SAP Rating
OMNIE TorFloor Underfloor Heating
These factors combine so that using OMNIE timber underfloor heating, such as TorFloor, over conventional radiators improves the energy efficiency of the building and increases the SAP rating.
These calculations are based on a new-build 100m2 timber frame house using a ground source heat pump.
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A system for every construction
Suspended floors
Floating floors
Timber suspended floors use joists to support the floor deck. The underfloor heating system can either sit between the joists or within the floor deck itself.
With a floating floor the deck or floor finish is not fixed directly to the sub-floor. It is important to use insulation that has the appropriate compressive strength for the intended floor loads.
Batten floors
Screed and concrete floors
A batten floor is a standard way of installing a timber floor over a solid subfloor. The underfloor heating system within the batten space must be in contact with the floor deck to provide good thermal performance.
The use of underfloor heating in screeds is common practice. These systems have good heat output, but the warm-up time is longer than dry construction products.
Acoustic and resilient floors
Refurbishments
In a separating floor there is a requirement to use a floor construction that reduces the transfer of sound. There are standard constructions called Robust Details, which, when followed exactly, ensure compliance with Building Regulations.
Products suitable for refurbishments are made from materials that would be used in the construction or have a very low build-up suitable for an existing floor.
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OMNIE UFH Products
ACOUSTIC
CONCRETE SCREED
TIMBER FLOATING
TIMBER SUSPENDED
Helping you pick the right product for your project
TIMBER BATTEN
Product Selector
LOW BUILD-UP
Floor Construction
TorFloor - pg 36 Structural floor deck and heating system in one. TorFloor RdB - pg 37 TorFloor RdB is an acoustic version of TorFloor that reduces the transmittance of sound. AB Plate - pg 46 Designed for acoustic and sprung batten floors.
FoilBoard - pg 38 Integrated insulation for improved thermal performance in timber floors. LowBoard - pg 41 15mm thin panels enable UFH to be used in very low build-up constructions. OgeeBoard - pg 42 Insulation with routed channels to hold and protect the pipe. ClipPlate - pg 43 ClipPlate is a castellated plastic sheet that is laid over the insulation or concrete subfloor. ClipPlate Compact - pg 44 ClipPlate Compact is a castellated plastic panel designed for low build-up screed floors. Staple - pg 45 Pipe fixed using staples to the insulation.
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TorFloor Floor and heating system in one
PRODUCT DATA
PRODUCT FEATURES
TorFloor panels are manufactured from flooring grade chipboard or plywood. The pre-machined panels are routed with a unique pattern to accept OMNIE pipe. The design of the panel makes it suitable as a structural floor deck. The panels are laid and fixed onto the joists in the same way as a normal chipboard floor.
Panel thickness 22mm (+6mm ply)
• Multi-directional pipe channels
Weight with water 18.9kg/m2 (including 6mm)
• Perfect for use with heat pumps
Suitable for All suspended and batten timber floors.
• Simple installation
The pipe is installed into the grooves with the ends of the circuit dropping into the joist space to then continue to the manifold. A 6mm ply covering layer is then glued and screwed to the TorFloor panels to complete the floor.
FOIL DIFFUSER
TORFLOOR PANEL 12mm PIPE
INSULATION
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Pipe Centres 150mm
• Floor and heating system in one
TorFloor RdB Structural floor and heating system in one with acoustic insulation
PRODUCT DATA
PRODUCT FEATURES
Panel thickness 39mm (+6mm ply layer)
• Improves sound insulation
The TorFloor RdB system is, in principle, the same as the standard TorFloor system but the TorFloor RdB panel has two additional layers bonded to the underside to reduce vibration, and attenuate airborne and impact noise passing through floors.
Weight with water 26 kg/m2 (+ 6mm ply layer)
• Multi-directional pipe channels
Suitable for Suspended floors that need to improve acoustic insulation.
• Perfect for use with heat pumps
Pipe Centres 150mm
• Floor and heating system in one
The additional two layers comprise of a second chipboard layer separated from the 22mm TorFloor RdB panel by sound damping strips. Attached to the underside of this is an acoustic felt layer.
• Simple installation
Overall, the panel is 39mm thick. To the top surface the 6mm ply layer must be added, glued and screwed to complete the floor.
12mm PIPE
FOIL DIFFUSER TORFLOOR RdB PANEL
INSULATION
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FoilBoard Batten Integrated insulation and heating panel for timber floors FoilBoard Batten is an insulated underfloor heating panel installed between battens. The panels are manufactured from XPS insulation with a pre-bonded soft temper aluminium heat diffuser, making the panel easy to trim on site.
PRODUCT DATA
PRODUCT FEATURES
Panel thickness (mm) 25/35/50
• Multi-directional pipe channels
Weight 1.5 kg/m2(50mm)
• Easy to trim
Suitable for All batten floors Pipe Centres 150mm/200mm
16mm or 12mm PIPE
BATTEN
FOILBOARD PANEL
CONCRETE SUBFLOOR
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• No ticking from the aluminium diffuser on warm up or cool down
FoilBoard Floating High compressive strength insulation with integrated heat diffuser Our FoilBoard Floating system is laid over a solid floor. The FoilBoard panels provide the support for the fully floating floor deck that is laid over. FoilBoard is manufactured from extruded polystyrene insulation which has a high compressive strength, suitable for floating floor applications. The heat diffusers are prebonded and made from soft temper aluminium. As no thick rigid plates are used the panels are easily trimmed on site.
PRODUCT DATA
PRODUCT FEATURES
Panel thickness (mm) 18/25/35/50
• Multi-directional pipe channels
Weight with water 1.5 kg/m2 (50mm)
• Insulation with high compressive strength
Suitable for All floating floors
• Simple installation • Easy to trim
Pipe Centres 150mm/200mm
16mm or 12mm PIPE
FOILBOARD PANEL
CONCRETE SUBFLOOR
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FoilBoard Suspended Combined insulation and heat diffuser
PRODUCT DATA
PRODUCT FEATURES
Our FoilBoard suspended system provides assured performance in timber suspended floors.
Panel thickness 50mm
• Multi-directional pipe channels
The FoilBoard panels are laid between joists supported by battens or brackets. This ensures that the system is in direct contact with the underside of the floor deck, maximising the transfer of heat from pipe to the deck.
Weight with water 1.5 kg/m2 (50mm)
• Easy to trim
16mm or 12mm PIPE
FOILBOARD PANEL
FLOOR JOIST
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Suitable for Suspended and batten timber floors
• No ticking from heat diffusers on warm up or cool down
LowBoard
R
Low build-up underfloor heating system
PRODUCT DATA
PRODUCT FEATURES
The LowBoard panel enables underfloor heating to be installed where there is minimal height available to build up the floor. The total height of the panel is just 15mm.
Panel thickness 15mm/22mm
• Multi-directional pipe channels
Weight 12 kg/m2 (LowBoard15)
• Perfect for use with heat pumps
Suitable for Low build-up where floor height is restricted
• High heat output
The LowBoard panel is a high-density wood board with grooves routed to accept the 12mm pipe. The panel has an aluminium layer bonded to it that acts to spread the heat into the floor. LowBoard is also available in 22mm thick panels for 16mm pipe. LowBoard 22 is used for larger areas where longer pipe runs are required.
• Only 15mm
Pipe Centres 150mm/200mm
12mm PIPE
LOWBOARD PANEL
CONCRETE SUB-FLOOR
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OgeeBoard OgeeBoard saves screed and protects the pipe OgeeBoard is manufactured from XPS polystyrene insulation. The polystyrene boards are routed with channels into which the pipe is installed. After the pipe is installed a screed is laid over. The OgeeBoard insulation panels are designed to hold the pipe within the thickness of the insulation reducing the possibility of damage from site traffic. No other fixings, staples or plates are needed to hold the underfloor heating pipe in place. The OgeeBoard insulation panels are available from 35mm.
CONCRETE SCREED 16mm PIPE
OGEEBOARD PANEL
VAPOUR CONTROL LAYER
CONCRETE SUB-FLOOR
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PRODUCT DATA
PRODUCT FEATURES
Panel thickness 35mm or 50mm
• No other fixings or staples needed
Weight 1.5 kg/m2 (50mm)
• Reduces volume of screed needed
Suitable for All screed floors
• Protects pipe from site traffic
Pipe Centres 150mm/200mm
• Simple installation at fixed pipe centres
ClipPlate Simple installation without staples
PRODUCT DATA
PRODUCT FEATURES
The ClipPlate system has been purposely designed to avoid using fixings and staples in the floor. ClipPlates have castellations in the panel to provide grip for the pipe, as well as protecting the pipe from site traffic.
Panel thickness 20mm (no insulation)
• Multi-directional pipe installation
Weight 1.1 kg/m2 + Screed
• Protects pipe from site traffic
Suitable for All screed floors
• Interlocking sheets
The panel is designed to allow the pipe to easily change direction and also provide a simple method of installation where the pipe approaches the manifold.
Pipe Centres 150mm/200mm
CONCRETE SCREED CLIPPLATE PANEL 16mm PIPE VAPOUR CONTROL LAYER INSULATION
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ClipPlate Compact Low build-up screed floors
PRODUCT DATA
PRODUCT FEATURES
The ClipPlate Compact panel is designed for refurbishment applications. The panel is 14mm thick and uses 12mm pipe making it a much thinner build-up. The panel comes with preformed holes within it to allow the screed to flow within the panel. The plate has an adhesive layer on the underside that ensures the plate stays in place when the specialist screed is being poured.
Panel thickness 14mm
• Only 20mm overall build-up
Weight 1.1 kg/m2 + Screed
• Simple installation
The design enables very thin screeds to be used giving the lowest possible screed build-up with an underfloor heating system – just 20mm.
SPECIALIST SCREED 12mm PIPE CLIPPLATE COMPACT PANEL STRUCTURAL SUB-FLOOR
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Suitable for Low build-up screed floors Pipe Centres 150mm
• Adhesive backed
Staple For fixing pipe to insulation
PRODUCT DATA
PRODUCT FEATURES
The staple system provides a quick, flexible and simple method of installing underfloor heating in a screed floor.
Suitable for All screed floors
• Flexible
The pipe is easily held using staples. The staples have a barbed end which fixes into the insulation.
Pipe Centres 100mm/150mm/200mm
• Simple installation
STAPLE CONCRETE SCREED 16mm PIPE VAPOUR CONTROL LAYER INSULATION
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AB Plate Heat diffuser plates designed for acoustic battens The AB Plate system is installed in batten floors used in conjunction with acoustic or resilient floor constructions. The AB Plates are pre-formed diffuser plates with integrated insulation, which improves the transfer of heat into the floor deck. The ‘wings’ of the module are angled slightly upwards so that, when the floor deck is laid, there is guaranteed contact between the floor and plate. This is crucial to ensure good performance from the underfloor heating system. Each AB Plate is fixed over a resilient batten leaving a gap between each plate for the installer to walk. The system complies with the requirements of an underfloor heating system used in a batten floating floor treatment for a Robust Standard Detail construction.
GYPSUM BOARD AB PLATE PANEL 16mm PIPE STRUCTURAL SUB-FLOOR
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PRODUCT DATA
PRODUCT FEATURES
Panel thickness Aluminium plate
• Angled ‘wings’ improve output
Weight 8.3 kg/m2
• Perfect for use with acoustic batten constructions
Suitable for All suspended timber batten floors Pipe Centres 200mm
• Pre-formed insulated modules
OMNIE pipe At OMNIE we use high-quality PE-RT underfloor heating pipe. The entire range is backed by decades of experience in plastics processing. A specially modified polyethylene is used for the underfloor heating pipe, the molecular structure and composition of which ensures very good thermal stability and a high degree of mechanical strength. The EVOH layer provides a very good oxygen barrier while the outer PE-RT layer protects the entire structure against damage.
PRODUCT DATA
PRODUCT FEATURES
Thickness range 12mm and 16mm
• Oxygen-tight with co-extruded EVOH layer in accordance with DIN 4726 • Operational range, max 6 bar, constant temperature 60°C • Corrosion free • Stress crack resistant and can be laid cold
PIPE WALL PE-RT PLASTIC LAYER FOR FORCE- FIT CONNECTION OXYGEN BARRIER LAYER PLASTIC LAYER FOR FORCE- FIT CONNECTION PROTECTIVE LAYER OF PE-RT
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OMNIE manifold The manifold distributes the primary warm water into each underfloor heating circuit. The manifold is the central point for the underfloor heating system. It brings together the warm water feed from a heat source (such as a boiler, heat pump or thermal store), the pipe work from the floor and the thermostat wiring.
PRODUCT DATA
PRODUCT FEATURES
Sizes available 2 to 12 Port
• Auto air vents
A manifold can serve areas up to 200m2 but installation is easier if a manifold is installed in an accessible central location on each floor. The size of the manifold depends on the area it is serving.
• Drain and filling point • Flow meters • Isolating valves
MANIFOLD WITH MIXING UNIT AND CIRCULATOR The manifold is supplied with a mixing unit and circulator to ensure the water temperature entering the floor does not exceed the design temperature. This manifold configuration is essential if the heat source is able to supply high temperature water.
LOW TEMPERATURE PUMPING UNIT WITH MANIFOLD Where the heat source only supplies water at the correct temperature for the heating system, then the mixing valve can be omitted.
‘BRANCH’ MANIFOLD Again, if the water is only supplied at the correct temperature then the mixing valve is unnecessary. Also, if there is a circulator already installed then this can be removed from the manifold assembly.
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Floor finishes and underfloor heating Most floor finishes can be used with underfloor heating. The type and thickness of the floor finish will affect the heat output of the underfloor heating system Underfloor heating has a floor surface temperature of approximately 260C for most applications. However some systems, where the building heat loss is high, will require a surface temperature up to 290C. This is dependent on the floor finish manufacturer’s instructions as they may stipulate a maximum floor temperature. The underfloor heating system should be designed to suit these requirements, although this may mean a reduction in heat output.
Timber floors
Ceramic and stone
OMNIE has long experience of how UFH is the best way of caring for a hardwood floor. Timber changes dimension due to changes in its moisture content, and this varies naturally throughout the year. The challenge is to keep the moisture content of the upper and lower surfaces of the timber the same. If they do, the timber floor will stay perfectly flat. If they don’t, it will crown or cup.
These materials have a low thermal resistance that makes them very suitable for underfloor heating. Consideration must be given to expansion gaps and the suitability of adhesives used to bond the tiles to the sub-floor.
The first step is to lay the timber floor with a moisture content of 8-10%. The second is to ensure the UFH turns on gradually at the beginning of each heating season, which can be assured by using programmable room thermostats and leaving the heating on. The heating will then run briefly, and only as necessary, allowing time for absorbed moisture to naturally disperse into the room.
Underfloor heating is suitable for use under any ceramic or natural stone floor tiles, including slate, marble, porcelain, terracotta and limestone. Ceramic tiles and stone finishes are both good conductors of heat and as a result are very well suited to underfloor heating. Care must be taken when laying over suspended or batten floors. The tiles should be properly supported and the tile manufacturer’s instructions must be followed.
Carpet
Linoleum and vinyl tiles or sheet
Our general advice is to avoid carpets and underlay having thermal resistance greater than 1.5 Tog.
Vinyl is usually suitable for underfloor heating, although this is dependent on thickness. Thick rubber tiles may inhibit heat output.
Underfloor heating is more effective when used with carpets and underlay with lower combined Tog values. This enables heat to be transferred to the emitting surface of the carpet more easily. The higher the Tog value of the carpet and underlay, the greater the reduction in output from the underfloor heating system. If your intended finish is greater than 1.5 Tog then please call us and we will check the performance of your underfloor heating system.
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Advice should be sought from the manufacturer on the maximum surface temperature the vinyl can reach.
Screed floors and underfloor heating There are many different types of screed - from the conventional sand/cement screed to proprietary liquid screeds .
The screeds that are discussed here are floating screeds, i.e. they are not bonded to the concrete sub-floor.
Laying screeds with underfloor heating
Sand/cement screeds
The British Standard for underfloor heating states that there should be joints in stone and ceramic-finished screeds every 40m2, with a maximum length of 8m between joints. A joint must be placed at least every 8m across the floor but, as the joint is only one third of the screed thickness, it should not interfere with the underfloor heating pipe provided the underfloor heating circuit has been fixed down securely.
The minimum thickness of a floating screed is 75mm for commercial installations and 65mm for domestic installations. There should be a minimum of 25mm screed over the pipes.
Only flow and return pipes should pass through movement joints. Where this happens a 300mm piece of conduit should enclose the pipe and span the joint.
Drying of screeds As a rule of thumb a 50mm sand/cement screed could be expected to dry in good conditions within 2 months and a 75mm screed in around 3 months. Sand cement screeds should not be heated for at least 21 days after laying and with anhydrite screeds 7 days after laying. The screed manufacturer’s instructions must always be followed.
Calcium sulphate and anhydrite screeds The benefit of using this type of screed is that the drying time is less than conventional sand/cement screeds and there is less shrinkage. The minimum thickness of a screed in a commercial installation is 40mm and 35mm in a domestic installation. There should be a minimum of 25mm screed over the pipes.
Pump-able self-smoothing screeds There are many proprietary screeds on the market. Advice should always be sought from the manufacturer.
Once the screed has dried, the system can be turned on but the screed must not get any warmer than 250C for the first 3 days or 150C above the temperature of the unheated floor. After this period, the system can be switched to the maximum temperature and kept there for 4 days. The underfloor heating must never be used to dry the screed. It is important that the screed must be allowed to cool to room temperature before the final floor finish is laid.
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Underfloor heating performance and design OMNIE has independently tested all of our products so that when we produce a system design we can give our clients the confidence that an OMNIE system will perform as designed. All of our designs are based on BS1264, the British Standard for underfloor heating. Our designs show where the pipe is to be installed in the floor and are issued for approval before we despatch the materials for the project. There are several factors that are important in a good underfloor heating design. The system must provide enough heat to keep the rooms warm, as well as responding quickly to changes in the home owner’s requirements.
Warm-up
Heat output
Underfloor heating systems can be designed to react very quickly to heating demands. The warm-up time of the system depends upon several factors.
The underfloor heating output is based on a number of variables:
Product The time taken for the underfloor heating system to emit heat is dependent on the underfloor heating product and system. Underfloor heating with pipe embedded in a thick concrete slab will have a longer warm-up time than dry construction systems, such as TorFloor or LowBoard in suspended, batten or floating floors. This is recognised in SAP with timber floor underfloor heating having a better overall SAP rating than concrete underfloor heating.
Heat loss The room warm-up time is also dependent on the heat loss of the building. The underfloor heating system must be sized to overcome the heat losses of the building but also have additional capacity to ensure a good response time from cold.
Floor finish Floor finishes have different thermal resistances. Tiles, for example, are very conductive whilst a combination of carpet and underlay is less conductive. Also, the thicker the material, the lower the heat output will be.
Water temperature The higher the water temperature used in underfloor heating, the higher the heat output. However, a balance is needed as using low water temperatures reduces running costs.
The underfloor heating product and the construction OMNIE products are designed to have a good conductive pathway from pipe to the floor surface. Some competitor products have an air gap which reduces the heat output. OMNIE has tested its systems at BSRIA (Building Services Research and Information Association) and is therefore able to provide definitive information on the heat output for your specified construction.
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Common questions Is my property suitable for underfloor heating? Underfloor heating can be used in any property. Just like any other heating system, the heat output from the floor should be sufficient to satisfy the building heat losses. How fast does an underfloor heating system warm up? The speed at which an underfloor heating system works is dependent on the thermal mass of the floor and the design of the system. High thermal mass floors, such as concrete floors, will take longer to heat up. Also, if the underfloor heating system has a high heat output it will have a faster warm-up time. How much does it cost to run an underfloor heating system? The running cost will depend on the heat losses from the house. However an underfloor heating system that is designed correctly - especially when used with renewables - will be cheaper to run compared to radiators. How do I maintain my underfloor heating system? Underfloor heating requires very little maintenance. The manifold contains all the moving parts, such as pump and zone valves, and these will need to be checked from time to time. Can I have underfloor heating upstairs? Underfloor heating is straightforward in a concrete screed floor. However, timber first-floor constructions require the right products for the system to be effective. OMNIE has developed a comprehensive range of underfloor heating products for timber first floor constructions.
T: 01392 36 36 05 E: projects@omnie.co.uk W: www.omnie.co.uk
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Surface Cooling Low-energy comfort cooling 56. Cool, Not Cold
57. Surface Cooling vs Air Conditioning
58. Free Cooling
59. Questions and Answers
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Low energy alternative to air-conditioning Cool water can be used in the underfloor heating system or in a ceiling system to provide room cooling as an alternative to air conditioning. This is called Surface Cooling
Cool, not cold Chilled water is provided by either a ground source or air source heat pump. A surface cooling system uses water at a higher temperature than that needed by an air conditioning system. This increases the efficiency of the heat pump. Where ground loops are installed for a ground source heat pump, the benefits are even greater as the ground can be used to cool the water for free.
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Cool, but too cold? Air conditioning units can create extreme changes in temperature and produce discomfort for those closest to them.
Surface cooling vs air-conditioning Energy transfer
The result?
A surface cooling system, like underfloor heating, is a radiant system. The absorbing surface - a floor, wall or ceiling - is cooled to a temperature lower than the items and occupants within a room.
Air-conditioning results in extremes of radiant and air temperature being created. Big differences between air and radiant temperature creates discomfort, experienced by anyone who sits near both a south-facing window and an air-conditioning unit on a hot summer’s day.
How does it work? The cooled surface absorbs energy from within the room. In reducing the radiant temperature the occupants feel more comfortable even though the air temperature has only slightly changed. This effect is similar to a church or cave, where the walls and floor are at a lower temperature than the air making the space feel cooler. Air conditioning works in a different way, mechanically forcing air over cooling elements thereby cooling the air in the room but not significantly reducing the radiant temperature.
Surface cooling creates an environment where the air and radiant temperatures are closer together which, with the absence of noise and air movement from an air conditioning unit, makes for a more comfortable living and working environment.
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Free cooling Surface cooling has the advantage of using warmer temperature water than air conditioning If a ground source heat pump is installed for heating, the water can be simply cooled by using the ground loops, without using the heat pump During the summer, the ground temperature will be around 150C at a depth of 2 metres. This chilled water can be used directly in a surface cooling system. This makes it almost cost neutral to run, with the benefit of storing the unwanted heat energy in the ground until it is needed by the heat pump for heating.
Heat Pump Inactive
Ground Loops
Cooling via the underfloor heating or ceiling system
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Common questions How much cooling can I expect? For most homes, surface cooling can provide enough cooling to reduce peak temperatures in the summer to a comfortable level. Air conditioning is needed for very high cooling loads. How much does it cost to run? If using a ground source heat pump then very little – just the cost of the circulating pump. If using an air source heat pump to produce the cold water then surface cooling will cost less than air conditioning, but the cost will depend on the size of the cooling load. How is it controlled? The OMNIE control system will switch the system between heating and cooling as required. What about condensation? Condensation control is an important feature of a surface cooling system. The OMNIE controls are able to alter the surface cooling system so that it avoids condensation being formed. What maintenance is required? There is very little maintenance required other than that needed by the heat pump.
T: 01392 36 36 05 E: projects@omnie.co.uk W: www.omnie.co.uk
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Heat Pumps Lower running costs and environmentally friendly 62. Why Use A Heat Pump?
63. Why An OMNIE Heat Pump?
64. Renewable Rewards
65. OMNIE MCS Scheme
66. Air Source Heat Pumps
68. Ground Source Heat Pumps
70. Servicing and Maintenance
71. Questions and Answers
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Why heat pumps? Heat pumps are the perfect partner for OMNIE underfloor heating, saving energy and being better for the environment
Renewable energy
Saving money
Cooling
Incentives
A heat pump takes energy from the air or ground even at sub-zero temperatures. The absorbed energy is then transferred, at higher temperatures, to the home’s heating and hot water system. The energy taken from the air or ground is then replaced by energy from the sun.
Although some electricity is needed to run a heat pump, it is up to five times more efficient than fossilfuel systems. This saves money on running costs and reduces greenhouse emissions.
Where cooling is needed, a heat pump can work in reverse cycle to produce chilled water. Where a ground loop is installed, chilled water can be produced for free and used in a surface cooling system.
Heat pumps also benefit from the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) which is a guaranteed payment for the amount of renewable energy produced for seven years following installation.
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Why from OMNIE? Remote access
Quality engineering
For all of our heat pumps we offer as standard free use to our remote access software - AlphaWeb. This enables the end-user to interact with the heat pump whilst away from the home or office, as well as providing diagnostic information to the installer or us at OMNIE.
The heat pumps we supply are manufactured by AlphaInnotec and are exclusively available to OMNIE. AlphaInnotec heat pumps have a reputation for high standards of engineering performance making efficient and durable heat pumps.
Servicing and support
Design
Every heat pump sold is individually inspected, started and commissioned after installation by an OMNIE engineer before being signed off. In addition, we have a range of service and maintenance packages with Gold service free for the first year.
OMNIE have an experienced technical team who are on hand to provide comprehensive technical support, ensuring that the heat pump meets the project requirements.
AlphaWeb Access your heat pump from anywhere in the world Access your heat pump system from your tablet or smartphone. The app is available on Apple and Android devices.
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Renewable rewards Heat Pumps not only present big savings on energy usage, they are also eligible for the Renewable Heat Incentive
Running costs
Efficiency
The running costs of a heat pump will, of course, depend on the heat loss of the building, just like a conventional boiler would. In addition the efficiency is improved and the running costs reduced with low temperature OMNIE underfloor heating.
The average efficiency of the heat pump over the year is called the Seasonal Performance Factor (SPF) and is important in determining the RHI payment. The efficiency is set by MCS and listed in the Heat Emitter Guide.
Cost per unit of fuel (p/kWh)
Efficiency (%)
Cost per unit of heat (p/kWh)
Relative cost
Ground Source
12p
340%
3.5p
-
Air Source
12p
270%
4.4p
+26%
Gas
4p
85%
4.7p
+34%
Biomass
5p
85%
5.8p
+65%
LPG
6.5p
85%
7.6p
+117%
Oil
8p
85%
9.4p
+168%
Heat Source
Heat source efficiency and fuel cost will vary.
Renewable Heating Incentive explained The rate payable is dependent on the efficiency of the system, specifically the water temperature needed by the heat emitter. Using lower temperature water in an OMNIE underfloor heating system increases the amount of RHI that can be claimed. To be able to claim the RHI it is necessary to provide room-by -room heat loss calculations and to then demonstrate that the chosen heat emitter will meet those losses. The RHI benefits installations smaller than 45kW for refurbishments, retro-fit installations and self builders. Commercial RHI is available for multiple dwellings, please contact our office for details.
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OMNIE installer MCS scheme How we can help The scheme provides qualified installers with a complete solution for individual project MCS compliance. This enables non-MCS installers to use our scheme to cover heat pump installations if the end user wishes to obtain the RHI. Under the OMNIE MCS Cover Scheme, we take full responsibility for the sizing, specification, quotation, installation (installation work done by others), commissioning and registration of the heat pump. Call the OMNIE office for more information on how the scheme could benefit your project.
Training OMNIE provides training courses on heat pump design and installation for both the beginner and experienced installer.
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Air source heat pumps An air source heat pump extracts the energy from the outside air Air source heat pumps have the advantage of being cheaper to install than ground source heat pumps. However, a ground source heat pump can be more efficient due to the stable ground temperature and, therefore, it have lower running costs. The air source heat pump is located externally with pipework that connects to a buffer tank and domestic hot water cylinder installed within the building. Although it is not mandatory, OMNIE always specifies a buffer tank to maximise efficiency.
LW air source heat pump
The LW air source heat pump can be located away from the building.
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LWD air source heat pump
The LWD is ideally sited next to the building.
LWD air source heat pumps The LWD is the latest in heat pump technology. The 230V heat pump is mounted externally with an internal hydraulic module that contains the expansion vessel, back up heater, heating circulator and safety module. The LWD is extremely quiet at only 47dB(A)@1m and has impressive efficiencies even at low outside air temperatures. All of the MCS approved domestic heat pumps available from OMNIE have corrosion protection on the fins, an important feature in a maritime climate such as the UK.
PRODUCT DETAILS
FEATURES
Heat Output (kW) 6 to 9 (A7/W35)
• Corrosion protection coating
Sound dB(A)@1m 47
• LWD 70A/SX MCS approved • Operates up to 700C • Very quiet
If two LWD heat pumps are needed in cascade, the internal HMD hydraulic module is able to provide the necessary control for both heat pumps.
LWD heat pump
• Heating/cooling units available
HMD internal control unit for LWD.
LW air source heat pumps The LW heat pump range can be located away from the building installed on a concrete base. The heat pump fins have corrosion protection whilst the heat pump uses the same standard Lux controller as all Alpha-InnoTec heat pumps. AlphaWeb is provided as standard for all heat pumps to allow remote connection to the heat pump for control, diagnostics and troubleshooting.
PRODUCT DETAILS
FEATURES
Heat Output (kW) 12 to 35 (A7/W35)
• Monobloc heat pump
Sound dB(A)@1m 51
• Can stand alone away from the building • LW 121A/SX is MCS approved • Corrosion protection
LW heat pump
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Ground source heat pumps Rather than absorbing energy directly from the air, a ground source heat pump uses pipe buried in the earth to take energy from the ground The temperatures in the ground are more stable than air temperatures. The higher temperatures in the ground mean heat pumps using ground arrays are more efficient in winter and are therefore cheaper to run. The heat pump is installed indoors with an external ground array, either horizontal or vertical. Horizontal arrays consist of pipe laid in trenches dug up to 1.5m deep. Alternatively bore holes can be drilled and a vertical pipe inserted. This method requires less land area but drilling boreholes is more expensive than excavating trenches for horizontal pipe arrays. It is usual for the pipe work from the ground collectors to be connected to a common manifold with single flow and return connections to the heat pump.
Ground source heat pump with boreholes
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Ground source heat pump with horizontal arrays
SWC ground source heat pumps The SWC is a ‘compact’ heat pump range that includes all the necessary hydraulic components for the heating and hot water system that would normally be installed alongside the heat pump. These include the heating and brine circulators (including ball valves), backup electric heater, integrated brine expansion vessel and brine circuit pressure gauge, air vent and safety valve. Our ground source heat pumps come with all the necessary ground array pipe work, manifolds and brine mix.
PRODUCT DETAILS
The SWC 120S and SWC 140S are MCS approved ground source heat pumps. The units are extremely quiet at 45 dB(A)@1m and have high efficiencies.
FEATURES
Heat Output (kW) 12 to 33 (B0/W35) Sound dB(A)@1m 45
• Excellent efficiency • Integrated hydraulics • SWC 120S and SWC 140S MCS approved • Quiet • Integrated controller
SWP ground source heat pumps The SWP range are larger ground source heat pumps. The largest unit is 160kW. However, it is possible for 4 units to be installed in cascade using the Lux controller providing a total capacity of up to 640kW. Larger cascades are possible with a building management system. The SWP range is divided into single and twin compressor options.
PRODUCT DETAILS Heat Output (kW) 29 to 160 (B0/W35) Sound dB(A)@1m 39 to 68
FEATURES • BMS ready (Modbus) • Low noise levels • Remote monitoring
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Monitor and maintain Preventative maintenance is important to ensure a heat pump works efficiently OMNIE provides this service for our Alpha-Innotec heat pumps, but maintenance and servicing can also be carried out by a competent, trained engineer. Our annual service packages for managing and maintaining your heat pump come in three tiers, designed so that you can get the cover you want.
Gold Proactive remote monitoring and reporting of issues before they are even evident. All labour and parts included. Gold also includes the annual service and system check - not only of the heat pump but also free cover for the OMNIE underfloor heating system, if one has been used in conjunction with the heat pump.
Silver Proactive remote monitoring. Cost of all parts included. Annual service including the servicing of a OMNIE underfloor heating system. All additional labour is chargeable.
Bronze Passive remote monitoring for faults. Cost of all parts included with a 5-year warranty period from new. All labour is chargeable.
See our terms and conditions for more information at www.omnie.co.uk.
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Common questions Are extra products required? The additional products needed are dependent on the type of heat pump. For example, the LWD air source heat pump only requires an additional hot water cylinder. How much space does my heat pump take up? Air source systems require space for the cylinder and buffer tank. Additional space is needed for ground source units that are sited internally. Do I need to upgrade my existing heating to have a heat pump? The existing heating system may require upgrading if it has been designed to run at high water temperatures. Who do I get to install my heat pump? An OMNIE trained installer should install our heat pumps. We will check, start and commission a heat pump before signing it off. How much does its cost to run my heat pump? Running costs depend on the heat loss from the property, the type of heat pump and the type of emitter. A well-insulated house using a ground source heat pump and OMNIE low temperature underfloor heating will have the lowest running cost. What happens after a power cut? Your heat pump automatically resets. Do I need a maintenance package? It is not mandatory to have a maintenance package. After the free 1-year Gold service period the warranty will revert to the Bronze service for the remainder of the warranty period. Which heat pump? If you have land for boreholes or horizontal loops then the lower running costs, the RHI and free cooling mean that ground source heat pumps present the best option. If there isn’t sufficient land then air source heat pumps are the next best option.
T: 01392 36 36 05 E: projects@omnie.co.uk W: www.omnie.co.uk
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Mechanical Ventilation and Heat Recovery Managing the air quality in your home 74. Why MVHR?
76. How does MVHR work?
78. OMNIE Heat Recovery Units
80. Questions and Answers
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Why MVHR? Improve living environments and circulate fresh air without the need for opening windows, all the while reducing noise, pollution and improving security Introducing fresh air into a home whilst extracting the stale air is essential to maintain comfort levels. An MVHR system does this, as well as recovering energy that would otherwise be lost to the outside. Heat from ventilation loss is the single biggest component of energy loss in a modern building, especially in passive house design. This is because, no matter how air tight the building is, fresh air is always required and this needs to be heated.
Saves energy
Security
Low noise levels
Better air quality
The transfer of energy from the outgoing stale humid air to the incoming fresh air reduces the need for the heating system to re-heat the air. This saves energy and lowers the running costs of the heating system.
Fresh air can be introduced and humidity levels controlled without the need to open windows and compromise security.
Extractor fans in bathrooms can be noisy. An MVHR system is much quieter as the fans in a Heat Recovery Unit are placed centrally, in an insulated box and usually away from the living space.
The air quality is improved by removing stale damp air from bathrooms and introducing filtered fresh air in living areas.
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Bathrooms An OMNIE MVHR system extracts damp stale air from bathrooms and uses this energy to pre-heat the incoming air.
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How does MVHR work? The Heat Recovery Unit has an integrated heat exchanger that transfers the energy from the outgoing air to the cold incoming air, thereby minimising the heat loss to the outside. The system extracts the damp stale air produced in kitchens and bathrooms and replaces it with fresh air, which is then supplied to the living areas.
The MVHR Process 1. A roof cowl is used for passing ductwork through a roof. 2. The rigid insulated duct runs from the heat recovery unit to the manifold. Its insulating properties prevent condensation. 3. The Heat Recovery Unit uses fans to extract air from inside the building and also to introduce air from outside. The two air flows pass through a high-efficiency heat exchanger. 4. The manifold is used as a distribution system, receiving air from the heat recovery unit and distributing the air into each room using several smaller 75mm semi-rigid ducts. 5. Semi-Rigid duct is used between the valve and manifold. Supplied in neatly coiled 50m lengths it is easy to handle, store and transport. Its smooth inner lining and strengthened corrugated outer layer make it flexible but hard wearing. It can be easily manipulated to suit changes in direction, reducing the need for connectors and T-pieces and saving time on installation.
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1
2
3
4 5
To living areas
From bathrooms and the kitchen
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The Energy Exchanger OMNIE uses the latest ventilation technology, such as an energy exchanger to improve comfort conditions. The MVHR system extracts moisture and stale air from the home thereby improving the environment. However, this can occasionally drop the humidity to uncomfortable levels and can cause dry skin or chapped lips. To prevent this, OMNIE can supply an energy exchanger to introduce moisture back into the fresh air (optional unit).
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155 and 185 The 155 and 185 MVHR units are normally located in the loft or in a cupboard with a connected duct running to all the rooms in a house. The unit has two fans, one to extract the damp, warm air from bathrooms and kitchens, and one to bring in fresh air from outside. The unit passes the outgoing air through the heat exchanger whilst simultaneously drawing fresh air from outside in the opposite direction.
SPECIFICATIONS 155 Dimensions H x W x D (mm) 644 x 546 x 298 185 Dimensions H x W x D (mm) 899 x 550 x 555 Max floor area (m2) 155: up to 110 185: up to 130 KEY FEATURES • Auto summer bypass • 2-year warranty • Auto humidity sensor
CA350 and CA550 The CA350 and CA550 MVHR units are larger than the OMNIE Compact models and are normally installed in a large loft space or in a plant room. The connecting ductwork then runs throughout the home. This unit is perfect for larger homes where an increased ventilation rate is required.
SPECIFICATIONS CA350 Dimensions H x W x D (mm) 845 x 702 x 572 CA550 Dimensions H x W x D (mm) 800 x 725 x 569 Max floor area (m2) CA350: up to 183 CA550: up to 290 KEY FEATURES • Passive house certified • Auto summer bypass • 2-year warranty • Optional energy heat exchanger
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Common questions Does the system run all the time and all year round? The ventilation system runs all year at a low level and increases the air flow rate when needed. What is the running cost of an MVHR system? The running cost depends on the size of the system and how often it needs to go into boost mode. The unit will consume around 70W in normal mode. What will happen if there is no power? Following a power cut, the house will start to feel more humid after two to three hours. Are the units noisy? A well-designed system should not be noticeably noisy. Some systems are designed to operate at maximum capacity all the time. OMNIE systems are designed for 60% max output and therefore remain quiet in continuous operation. Where is the unit normally located? The MVHR units can be sited on a wall or in the loft. Additional space is needed for the manifolds to distribute the air into the 75mm semi-rigid duct. How do I maintain my MVHR unit? MVHR systems require very little maintenance. The filters are accessible on the front of the unit and these can be easily cleaned. How do I pick the right MVHR system? This is determined by the size of the home and the flow rate required to satisfy regulations.
T: 01392 36 36 05 E: projects@omnie.co.uk W: www.omnie.co.uk
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Easy to maintain OMNIE Heat Recovery units are easy to maintain and service. However, the very best OMNIE engineers are at hand for any further assistance and maintenance.
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Here To Help Our commitment to service
84. Starting Your Project
86. Training and Seminars
88. Values
90. Getting In Touch
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Starting your project OMNIE can provide advice from the very beginning of the project through to after-sales care and support
Energy consultancy services OMNIE provides a consultancy service for customers who are not sure which products they should use. The impartial service will provide a feasibility study on the types of renewables that are appropriate, including information on running costs and RHI payments.
Getting a quote and specification To get a quote, simply email your plans to us or use the online facility on the OMNIE website. When sending in your plans please provide details of the floor construction, the floor finishes and the type of heat source. We would also like to know the insulation levels and glazing type. If it is a new build then simply state “built to current regs�.
Placing an order Orders can be placed through your OMNIE Project Manager. They will need to know when the goods are required and the site address. We will then produce a design for approval. Once agreed, the materials will be dispatched and sent to site as required.
Servicing and commissioning Servicing can make sure an OMNIE system works as it is meant to throughout its life. Our team of engineers are available to troubleshoot or to provide regular servicing visits.
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Training and Seminars OMNIE offers a range of training courses, and guidance for installers and architects
RIBA approved CPD courses Using underfloor heating effectively The training explains the science behind how UFH and radiators work, and how this relates to new design principles. It describes the constituent elements of any UFH system and how these inter-relate. Heating buildings using renewable energy An introduction to the types of renewable energy available, their advantages and disadvantages, and how they can be used effectively in projects to reduce carbon footprint and running costs.
Installer training courses Underfloor Heating and Heat Pump training courses take place at the OMNIE head office in Exeter, and our training facilities based in Ripley and Southampton. OMNIE offer BEPEC training courses with the aim of providing electricians, plumbers, heating engineers and ventilation engineers with the knowledge and skills to correctly install commission domestic ventilation systems.
Book your course today Speak to an OMNIE advisor today and book your place on our next course. T: 01392 36 36 05 E: training@omnie.co.uk W: www.omnie.co.uk
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Our values Our team believes in developing effective relationships with customers, suppliers and all stakeholders that are built on fairness and trust. We will collaborate and cooperate with everyone involved in a project to ensure its success. We will only supply projects where we believe the system will work as intended.
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Lowering our carbon footprint • All products and materials are sourced from companies who adhere to ISO14001 standards where possible. • All wood products are sourced from FSC or PEFC • All insulation products have a low GWP (below 5) • We try to minimise transportation of materials for collection and delivery, and where possible source from local suppliers. • We promote renewable technology and energy conservation as one of the primary objectives for the company. • We have a strict in-house recycling policy for all materials used within the building. • We are members of the renewable energy consumer code (RECC) and adhere to a strict code of selling and supply.
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