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Home > Case Studies > Indoor Climate Control > Decarbonising Carnew National School Decarbonising Carnew National School Recently completed under the Department of Education’s Energy Upgrade Pathfinder Programme, Carnew National School underwent a deep energy retrofit to transition towards a low-carbon future. Versatile worked in conjunction with Mechanical Consultants PMEP and Mechanical Contractors Murphy & Kelly to deliver a fully integrated heating and ventilation solution throughout this lovely school. The project demonstrates how existing educational buildings can be modernised to meet the most stringent energy and comfort standards. The Challenge The primary objective was to decarbonise the school’s thermal systems while strictly adhering to the Department’s Technical Guidance Documents (TGDs). Key requirements included: Integrating a high-performing heat pump that works perfectly with low water content radiators. Achieving strict acoustic targets of 35dB at 1 metre for a quiet learning environment. Providing robust, “school-proof” equipment for high-traffic areas. Selecting ventilation layouts (floor mounted vs. ceiling mounted ) based on varying classroom sizes and ceiling heights. The Solution Versatile supplied the complete mechanical package, including the BlueBox heat pump, low water content Maxi radiators, ceiling mounted Carboline radiant panels, and the full classroom MVHR solution. High-Performance Heating We supplied low water content radiators throughout the school, designed to meet the Department’s technical guidance. Double the Durability: While the TGD requires 1.5mm steel, the Maxi radiators feature 3mm steel thickness, doubling the technical guidance to provide a very robust, high-performing radiator. System Synergy: The high-performing heat pump works perfectly with these low water content radiators to ensure maximum efficiency across the school. Tailored Ventilation Solutions We provided several different mechanical ventilation solutions based on classroom-specific needs and TGD adherence: Floor-Mounted Units: In specific classrooms, we supplied floor-mounted units. These provide low-level displacement ventilation through the front grill and sides. They are easily serviced with easy access from the front access door. Ceiling-Mounted MVHR: In classrooms with high ceilings, we installed high-performing ceiling units. These achieved the required MVHR TGD of 35dB at 1 metre. The drop-down hinged access doors ensure that routine maintenance is simple and non-disruptive. Acoustic-Protected Heat Pump To ensure there is no noise disruption to the pupils or the staff of the school itself, the heat pump is located within a high-performance acoustic enclosure. This allows the school to benefit from a high-performing heating system while maintaining a peaceful environment.