The UK must tackle the challenge of developing appropriate housing for its ageing population. Mike Egan explains how modern HVAC systems can deliver flexible solutions to what will be a key growth area for the industry.
The UK is getting older. A report from the Local Government Association notes that between now and 2039, more than 70% of households will include someone aged 60 or older. The LGA also highlighted the importance of the right type of housing for this growing generation.
At the moment there is a worrying gap in the provision of homes for older people. Just 23% of local authorities have a plan for senior housing in their area.
However, this lack of availability is drawing interest from investors, and we are already seeing senior living developments springing up across the country.
There is an important opportunity here for the HVAC sector, since heating, ventilation and hot water services are vitally important in this market. But there are unique factors to consider when thinking about buildings services for senior living.
The UK must start making proper provision for its ageing population
Mike Egan Business Development Manager
Different requirements
One of the key challenges for developers is that there is no single solution for ‘senior living.’ Ageing doesn’t happen overnight, so someone who is healthy at 60 has different accommodation needs from someone in their 80s who may need more living assistance.
Flexible solutions that meet the needs of occupants over the decades are needed and HVAC requirements reflect this.
As a result, HVAC designers may find themselves with a cross section of needs to be met across one development. The delivery of heating, cooling, ventilation and hot water could be regarded as an essential element of health and wellbeing for the occupants of these buildings.
Heating is particularly important for the elderly, who are more prone to health impacts from the cold. Energy efficient, electric solutions are considered the modern approach (and they reduce the requirement for on-site gas). Heat pumps are an excellent solution here, providing an efficient and low-carbon approach.
Mitsubishi Electric’s residential and commercial ranges for example, are applicable across a range of property sizes. Some models can supply hot water up to 70oC, removing the need for on-site gas or oil boilers. Our modular CAHV heat pumps also make installation easier where developments are in urban areas and plant space is tight.
A breathe of fresh air
Good ventilation is also a critical element of indoor air quality (IAQ).
Again, senior residents are more vulnerable to airborne contaminants, as well as overheating. This is crucial for those residents who are less able to be outdoors and rely on good IAQ for health.
Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) is an excellent approach to tackling these issues. Mitsubishi Electric’s Lossnay MVHR system provides reliable, energy efficient ventilation – removing stale air while introducing pre-warmed outdoor air into spaces, reducing draughts and ensuring that the heating system is not having to overcompensate for colder, incoming cold air.
Air to air heat pumps
Air conditioning can also provide energy efficient cooling and heating, with split systems (such as Mr Slim or M Series from Mitsubishi Electric). Here, the use of modern, low-GWP refrigerants such as R32 will help to future-proof buildings against changing regulations as well as providing outstanding energy performance.
Mitsubishi Electric split systems also incorporate filters that can neutralise bacteria, allergens dust and mould to enhance indoor air quality. The filters are also removable for regular easy cleaning.
An optional feature is the Plasma Quad air purification which is designed to eliminate 99% of airborne viruses. This level of filtration can support better health outcomes for seniors who may be more prone respiratory health issues as well as seasonal viruses.
The need for robust systems
For senior living managers and staff, having robust HVAC systems that can deliver their exact heating, cooling, ventilation and hot water requirements is vital.
Features such as easy-to-use controls also make smooth operation of senior living facilities more achievable. Mitsubishi Electric’s MelCloud system also allows for remote monitoring for preventative maintenance, which enables facilities teams to spot changes in system performance before they lead to breakdowns.
The UK must start making proper provision for its ageing population, whether that’s delivered privately or through local authorities.
The need for a range of accommodation options will be vital to meet differing occupant needs, and as a result designers and installers must have options available for HVAC systems. Mitsubishi Electric’s wide range of solutions means that it can meet the challenges ahead, along with the need for energy-efficient, low-carbon solutions.
Mike Egan is Business Development Manager
