Part O – Overheating Assessments

TM52:  Tackling Overheating in Existing Commercial Buildings

The issue of overheating isn’t limited to new constructions.  Existing commercial buildings, especially older ones or those with large glazed areas, can also be susceptible to uncomfortable and even unsafe indoor temperatures during warmer months.  That’s where TM52 assessments come in.

TM52, or CIBSE TM52: Methodology for the Calculation of Energy Consumption of Buildings and their Services, is a specialised tool designed to assess and mitigate overheating risks in your existing commercial property.

Find out more about CIBSE TM52 Assessments for Existing Commercial Properties here.

Key Features of TM52 Assessments:

• In-depth Analysis of Existing Conditions:  TM52 takes a deep dive into your building’s current state, evaluating factors like the thermal properties of its construction materials, the effectiveness of its ventilation strategies, and typical occupancy patterns and behaviours.  This comprehensive analysis helps pinpoint vulnerabilities and areas where overheating is most likely to occur.
• Realistic Modelling:  Unlike simpler methods that rely on basic assumptions, TM52 utilises dynamic thermal modelling to simulate how your building will respond to real-world weather conditions and occupancy patterns. This allows for a more accurate prediction of overheating risks and helps identify the most effective mitigation strategies.
• Tailored Recommendations:  A TM52 assessment doesn’t just highlight problems; it provides solutions. Based on the analysis, you’ll receive detailed recommendations for retrofitting measures that can significantly reduce overheating risk. These might include improving ventilation, adding shading devices, upgrading insulation, or even exploring innovative cooling technologies.
• Improved Occupant Comfort and Productivity:  Overheating can lead to discomfort, decreased productivity, and even health issues for occupants. By addressing overheating risks through TM52 assessments, you can create a more comfortable and productive working environment, leading to happier and healthier employees.
• Cost Savings and Energy Efficiency:  While the primary focus is on thermal comfort, TM52 assessments can also identify opportunities for energy efficiency improvements. By addressing issues like poor insulation or inefficient ventilation, you can reduce energy consumption and lower operating costs.
• Compliance and Peace of Mind:  In some cases, TM52 assessments may be required to demonstrate compliance with certain energy efficiency regulations or to meet the requirements of green building certifications.  Even if not mandatory, a TM52 assessment provides peace of mind, knowing that you’ve taken proactive steps to address overheating risks and create a comfortable and safe working environment.

Why Choose Focus360 Energy?

• Expert Assessors: Our team of accredited assessors has extensive experience in conducting both TM59 and TM52 assessments.
• Tailored Solutions: We understand that every building is unique. We’ll work closely with you to develop customised solutions that meet your specific needs and budget.
• Comprehensive Approach: We offer a range of complementary services, including SAP calculations, SBEM calculations, BREEAM assessments, and air tightness testing, to ensure your building performs optimally across all aspects of sustainability and compliance.
• Proactive Risk Mitigation: We’ll help you identify and address potential overheating risks early in the design process or during renovations, saving you time and money in the long run.
• Peace of Mind: With our expert assessments, you can rest assured that your building is designed to provide a comfortable and healthy environment for occupants, while also complying with the latest regulations.

Take the First Step Towards a More Efficient and Comfortable Building

Don’t let overheating compromise your building’s performance or occupant well-being. Contact Focus360 Energy today to discuss your overheating risk assessment needs and ensure your project’s success.