Heat recovery has a long history of development, a region which played a significant role in its development and common use is Scandinavia. In the 1970s of the 20th century, Scandinavian countries, such as Sweden, Norway and Finland, started to experiment and introduce recuperative solutions in buildings.
It is worth noticing that the first prototype unit is believed to have been developed in Canada. In the 1950s of the 20th century, Canadian scientists experimented with heat recovery from ventilated air, and their research contributed to the further development of heat recovery system as an effective energy solution, It is also safe to say that the frost has contributed to the heat recovery and the aspiration of us as human beings to live in ever-increasing comforts.
Why does heat recovery systems come from Scandinavia?
One of the factors, which contributed to the leading position of Scandinavia in the field of heat recovery, was to strive for energy efficiency in a harsh climate. Scandinavian countries, with low temperatures for most of the year, were aware of a need to minimize heat loss and optimize energy use. Heat recovery was the answer for these challenges.
Innovative solutions of heat recovery have been developed in Scandinavia, and first systems of heat recovery were mostly used in public spaces, such as hospitals and office buildings. In the beginning they were expensive and complicated to install, but with time technology became more accessible and effective.
Scandinavian engineers and scientists conducted research on recuperation and improved its operation. They have developed new technological solutions, such as high-efficiency heat exchangers, more advanced control and automation systems, and methods of integrating recuperation with other HVAC systems (heating, ventilation, air conditioning).
In addition, policy and regulatory provisions in Scandinavia have also played an important role in the development of heat recovery. High energy standards and requirements on building efficiency has led to a search for innovative solutions, such as heat recovery system, in order to meet these requirements.
Legal standards and regulations for heat recovery in Scandinavian countries.
They set out strict requirements for heat recovery systems and provide guidance on their installation and conservation. These regulations are an important part of building strategies based on sustainability and energy efficiency.
For example, in Norway there is a technical norm NT VVS 140, which specifies the requirements on ventilation, and heat recovery in different types of buildings. This norm specifies among other things, minimum heat recovery efficiencies, requirements on energy effectiveness and air quality. In Sweden, the National Construction Council (Boverket) issues building regulations and guidelines, including recuperation systems. An example is the series of BBR (Boverkets Byggregler) documents, which include provisions on ventilation, including heat recovery system requirements. In BBR minimum efficiencies for heat recovery and airflow are specified, among others. In Finland, The Ministry of the Environment’s building regulations (Ympäristöministeriön asetukset rakentamismääräyksistä) include provisions on ventilation and heat recovery. These regulations stipulate, among other things, minimum heat recovery efficiencies, maximum pressure losses, as well as air quality and noise requirements.
Thanks to such standards and regulations, governing heat recovery and ventilation, Scandinavia has achieved high standards in energy efficiency and air quality in buildings. Other countries are also inspired by these regulations to promote sustainable and energy-efficient mechanical ventilation solutions.
These days, Scandinavia is considered the leader in heat recovery. Many manufacturers and suppliers of heat recovery systems come from this region. Innovation, high quality workmanship and heat recovery efficiency are features that distinguish products and solutions coming from Scandinavia.
The conclusion we draw from the history of these devices commonly known as heat recovery units is that Scandinavia has played and continues to play a key role in the history of heat recovery development. Harsh climatic conditions and the drive for energy efficiency have led the Nordic countries to seek innovative solutions. Scandinavian engineers and scientists have contributed to the improvement of heat recovery technology, and regulatory provisions have influenced the popularization of this solution. Today, Scandinavia is regarded as a leader in the field of heat recovery, and products from the region enjoy worldwide recognition.
