As global temperatures rise and urban areas expand, managing overheating in new build homes has become increasingly important for ensuring comfort and maintaining energy efficiency.

This section provides homeowners with essential strategies and insights into preventing and managing overheating, a challenge that is becoming more prevalent in modern housing design.

Covering aspects from the initial design considerations, like the use of dynamic simulation software and environmental modelling, to practical solutions such as efficient lighting, communal heating design, and passive architectural measures, this guide is an invaluable resource.

It also delves into the significance of ventilation systems, including MVHR with summer bypass, and the impact of solar gain on your home. Understanding these elements is crucial for homeowners looking to create a living space that remains comfortable and efficient, regardless of the external climate.

Designer Consideration of Overheating

When planning your home, ensure the designer considers the risk of overheating. They should use dynamic simulation software to analyse the dwellings at risk, factoring in both the current and future climate scenarios.

Using Environmental Modelling

Environmental modelling should incorporate future climate data and consider factors like the urban heat island effect. This helps in understanding and planning for potential solar gain and overheating risks in different parts of the home.

Reducing Internal Heat Gains

Opt for efficient lighting and appliances to reduce internal heat gains. This not only helps in preventing overheating but also contributes to the overall energy efficiency of your home.

Communal Heating Design

If your home is part of a development with communal heating, ensure that the system is designed to minimise heat loss. For example, a 70/40 flow return temperature can be effective in reducing unwanted heat dispersion.

Passive Design Measures

For dwellings at risk of overheating, consider passive design measures. These can include features like shading, orientation, and natural ventilation to reduce heat buildup.

Ventilation of Risers and Stairwells

In buildings with multiple dwellings, it’s important to ventilate all risers and stairwells with temperature-controlled Automatic Opening Vents (AOVs). This helps in managing the internal temperature and air quality.

MVHR with Summer Bypass

For homes with Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems, ensure they have an automatic summer bypass and can boost to at least three times the standard rate. This feature is crucial for periods of high temperature, allowing the system to bypass the heat recovery to reduce indoor temperatures.

Consideration of Solar Gain

Pay attention to the environmental modelling of solar gain. Understanding how sunlight interacts with your home across different times of the day and year can inform design choices to mitigate overheating risks.

By addressing these aspects, homeowners can ensure their new build home remains comfortable and energy-efficient, even in warmer conditions.