heat reclamation | Selfbuild Central

Domestic hot water

Traditionally, domestic hot water has simply been a choice between a combi boiler or a vented system (with the odd Point of Use water heater thrown in).

With water saving design, and zero carbon housing which will possibly become the standard in 2016, this all changes slightly for several reasons -

with PassivhausSee more on [...]

It is reckoned that in the UK, heating houses accounts for nearly 50% of the total energy use. Poor heating can render parts of dwellings virtually unusable, partly through discomfort due to cold and drafts and partly through the damage caused to contents through condensation, dampness, mould growth, etc. effectively reducing the house size [...]

Patrick and Fiona’s house

Existing houses present a much greater challenge than new ones in terms of energy saving. However in terms of reusing building materials they often provide better opportunities.

Patrick and Fiona run a very pleasant bed and breakfast near Nelson, Caerphilly and their house has been the subject of much renovation and extension over the [...]

Larch and Lime passivhauses

Larch house entrance

Although not self built, the two passivhauses at Ebbw Vale may be very relevant to many self builders. Built in 2010 as show houses mainly for the attention of housing associations, they are attractive and innovative while being relatively modest. The 3 bed Larch House is clad with a locally sourced [...]

‘Under the Sun’, Birmingham

Bringing existing houses up to a high standard of energy efficiency is a much greater challenge than with new ones.

This particular example of eco renovation is outstanding because of the way it will achieve a net zero carbon rating while at the same time reaching CSH Code for Sustainable Homes. A standard for [...]

The Tree House

The Tree House in Clapham, London is a recently completed and very elegant example of a self built detached house. It has, on occasion, been open to the public as part of the London Open House programme. Situated on a small urban plot of land dominated by a large sycamore tree it has [...]

Passivhaus at Denby Dale

the front of the house with double storey[for the purposes of part B (fire) of the Approved Documents to the Building Regulations] this means a. any gallery[for the purposes of part B of the Approved Documents] – A raised area or platform around the sides or at the back of a room which provides [...]

Bathroom

Water

The cold water normally comes into the house in blue MDPEMedium Density PolyEthelene. (the type of plastic used in water supply pipes etc.) plastic pipe and there is a stop tap either below the kitchen sink or in the basement/garage etc. The pipework then continues in 15mm. copper or push fit plastic and [...]

Part L and SAP (England)

The Building Regulations, part L, is the section which covers energy conservation for new buildings (with part L1A covering new buildings and part L1B covering existing ones)

At present there is a period of transition which is well explained in an NHBCThe National House-Building Council describes itself as being “the leading warranty and insurance provider [...]

House in Peterculter

Designed by architect Gokay Deveci. This passive solar house is open plan with the main central living room overlooked by a first floor gallery[for the purposes of part B of the Approved Documents] – A raised area or platform around the sides or at the back of a room which provides extra space. [...]

Self Build Central

Self build eco houses in the Field of Dreams, Findhorn FoundationThe Findhorn Foundation is a large community near Inverness. There is a strong emphasis on sustainable building and living.

Over the last decade or so the green building movement in the UK has gone from being fringe to mainstream.

Architects, builders and suppliers are [...]

Waste Water Plumbing

Waste water plumbing has traditionally been a fairly simple process using solvent-weld or push-fit PVC pipes and fittings. Due to the problems of PVC as a material it is worth considering using polypropylene (PP) as an alternative. It is now becoming more readily available. It is more easily recycled and can also be easily [...]