Integrated Smart Heating System in Historic Buildings

Abstract

In Estonia, wood-based heat accumulating stove heating is the traditional method of keeping houses warm during the cold period. Over time, district heating has started to replace local heating systems in urban areas. Different heating systems, based on different kind of combustion materials, have been introduced for heating private houses. Solar, earth and air heating have also been introduced in recent decades. At the same time, wood burning stove heating have still an important role in heating private homes as a traditional way. This, in turn, causes a reduction in air quality in urban areas during the heating season. Due to the decline in air quality, an idea of banning the wood-burning stove heating systems in urban areas rises. In historic buildings of architectural value, as well as heritage sites and buildings seeking of cultural authenticity, the preservation of stoves is required. In order for stoves to remain more than just decorative furnishings, it is wise to find possibilities of using stoves for their intended use using modern and non-polluting options. For example, by installing electric heating elements in furnaces or by supplying heat to the furnaces through preheated water. The aim of this study is that by using smart control element and heating the furnace with an electric heater during periods when electricity is cheap, it ensures the suitability of the indoor climate of the building and reduces the air pollution. At the same time, it balances the demand response ratio in electricity market.