Performance

Our integrated approach includes high performance passive low energy and healthy building services design – energy, when needed, is sourced from renewable energy, efficiently

We focus on achieving a building that performs in use, compared to what is theoretically possible and as our team consists of architects, building physicists and mechanical engineers. We ensure an integrated approach from design concept through to building delivery

We offer full ACE Mechanical Engineering services for all RIBA work stages including feasibility, concept, design, on site, hand over and commissioning and soft landings

Low Energy Design

  • Low energy mechanical & electrical systems design includes:
    • Highly efficient heating plant
    • Healthy heating distribution – low temperature radiant heating including in-wall heating and underfloor heating
    • Mechanical ventilation & heat recovery (MVHR)
    • Ground to air (earth tube) ventilation systems
    • Domestic hot water services (DHWS)
    • Cold water services (CWS)
    • Variable speed pumping systems
    • Variable volume ventilation systems (C02 / PIR controlled)
    • Rainwater harvesting
    • Low EMF and non-PVC electrical systems
    • Low energy and healthy lighting systems to enhance the circadian rhythm (night day cycle) –low energy, low EMF, flicker free, full spectrum and appropriate colour rendering
    • Control systems – strategies for commissioning and efficient operation
    • After care service to ensure efficient and healthy operation of building systems

Troubleshooting and refurbishment

Existing buildings can suffer from poor performance such as underheating, overheating, inadequate control, fresh air issues, mechanical plant faults, hot and cold-water problems. The reasons can range from poor initial design, incorrect commissioning procedures, poor maintenance, changes in use, age etc. Gale & Snowden offer a service to address these issues focusing on the following:

  • initial assessment and condition surveys
  • monitoring and testing of comfort conditions and plant
  • options reports
  • detailed design solution
  • commissioning and handover