Heat and Cold Energy Demands of Buildings

Calculate DHW, space heating and cooling demands for a building and design the appropriate device

This module aims to provide an exploration of the DHC networks from the buildings to the primary networks. Different ways to determine building space heating, space cooling and DHW demands are described. Then, the module deals with the operation and the sizing from the hydraulic networks in the buildings (emitters, pipes, pumps, control) to the substations and the primary network. Prerequisite knowledge to complete the module include basics in thermodynamics, basics in heat transfer and basics in fluid mechanics.

Main topics covered in the module

  1. Description of the space heating and cooling demand (heat losses, other key parameters)
  2. Space heating and cooling demand
  3. Domestic hot water demands
  4. Buildings side hydronic systems
  5. Substation and control
  6. Primary network

Learning Outcomes (skills and competences)

Upon completion of this module, learners will be able to:

  • Determine the space heating and cooling demands
  • Determine the domestic hot water demands
  • Design building side hydronic network
  • Design a substation and the primary network
  • Understand the primary network hydraulic scheme
Modul Details

Module 2
Lenght: 8 hours of face-to-face lectures including exercises
Format: e-learning material (for independent and guided learning) and printable pdf
Availability: September 2025 (public)
Developing team: PSL