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Online version: PDF - DTIE
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UNIT 4: ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS<br />
103<br />
BEMS allow for the use of occupancy-linked control systems, which are very useful<br />
for hospitality businesses. These include:<br />
• LINK PANELS AND KEY FOB PANELS<br />
These allow for power in rooms to be activated to set temperatures only<br />
when occupied. The link panel is activated when the key is removed<br />
from the key holder at reception or the control area, while the fob panel<br />
is activated when the key is placed in the key holder inside each room.<br />
Both systems require the installation of TRVs.<br />
• INFRA-RED OCCUPANCY DETECTORS<br />
These systems turn on units when motion is detected and allow<br />
for individual temperature control by the occupant. If no motion is<br />
detected, the system holds the set temperature for a preset time (5-50<br />
minutes) before switching back all units to background levels.<br />
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Combined Heat and Power (CHP)<br />
CHP systems generate electricity and channel the heat generated in the process<br />
(normally regarded as waste) to use for water or space heating. As both electricity<br />
and heat are generated at the same time, the efficiency of CHP systems can be as<br />
high as 80-90%.<br />
CHP is most suited to properties that require water and space heating for longer<br />
periods of the year. The UK Department of the Environment, Transport and the<br />
Regions reports that around 17% of total CHP installations in the UK are in hotels.<br />
Good Practice Tip<br />
CHP systems do not always bring financial returns. Specialist advice is needed to<br />
evaluate the feasibility of this option.<br />
Replace Older Equipment<br />
Older boilers and chillers are more energy-intensive than newer models. Replacing<br />
equipment over 15 years old will reduce energy bills by 10-15%. If equipment is<br />
less than 10 years old, investing in controls may prove more economical.<br />
Renewable Energy Options<br />
Renewable energy is a source of energy that can be produced at the same rate as<br />
or faster than it is consumed, and therefore does not deplete natural resources.<br />
Renewable energy technology for tourism and hospitality includes solar water<br />
heating, photovoltaics (PV), mini-hydro systems, wind turbines, bio-fuels and<br />
geothermal heat pumps.<br />
The use of renewable energy will be discussed at length in Unit 5.<br />
Wall, Roof and Floor Insulation<br />
Around 80% of cooling and heating is lost through external walls. In conjunction<br />
with heating/cooling controls, wall insulation also reduces condensation and<br />
damp. Many recycled and more environmentally-preferable insulating materials<br />
are available and should be given preference. Formaldehyde should be avoided.<br />
The types and methods of roof insulation depend on the roof pitch (sloping or flat),