06 Sep 2016
Active Chilled Beams Vs Fan Coil Units – Product knowledge is key
At Price TWA we offer both Chilled Beams and Fan Coil Units, each can provide a building with an efficient heating, cooling and ventilation solution with Fan Coil Units traditionally dominating in the UK market. There has been growth for Chilled Beams since their introduction from Scandinavia in the late 90’s and they are now used worldwide.
As both products can provide similar efficiencies and can be competitively priced, the decision as to which product to use often comes down to personal preference. Fan Coil Units are a better known product and are often selected on the merit of being tried and tested, but to make an informed decision, there are three questions that should be asked.
- Do you require a solution that integrates into your building design?
Active Chilled Beams – offer a visually pleasing appearance designed to complement a modern building. Can be integrated or suspended.
Fan Coil Units – are installed into ceiling voids and are therefore hidden, but grilles & diffusers are selected separately allowing different visual styles.
- Do you require a low maintenance solution?
Active Chilled Beams – offer a low maintenance solution due to having no moving parts (they rely on induction to circulate airflow with a high velocity primary airflow rather than powered fans).
Fan Coil Units – include a condensate tray and filters that will require maintenance support. This is a cost to be considered when purchasing.
- Do you require a flexible solution?
Active Chilled Beams –offer less flexibility when installed but a range of models are available (including T-Bar integrated, suspended ceilings or bulkheads).
Fan Coil Units – can be re-positioned in a modular building and can operate at greater temperature differences than Chilled Beams.
Conclusion:
We find that some customers do not consider Chilled Beams as an alternative to Fan Coil Units because they do not understand the product. We offer both and believe that product knowledge is key to making the correct product selection. Our technical advisors are often able to find a more effective, cost efficient Chilled Beam solution for customers that have considered building integration, maintenance, noise levels and flexibility needs.
Our most common applications include modern offices, universities, hospitals and laboratories. For more information on our Chilled Beams click here. For information on Fan Coil Unit’s click here. Datasheets are also available from the DOWNLOADS page.
