Energy efficiency in housing is a key factor for retaining heat and saving energy, especially during modern winters. The extent to which a house retains heat affects the comfort of its residents and heating costs.
This is reported by Finway
Which Houses Retain Heat Best
According to energy expert Professor Hennadiy Ryabtsev, houses with thick walls are considered the most energy efficient. This is particularly true for buildings of the “Stalinka” type, known for their massiveness.
“In fact, even before the construction of ‘Stalinkas’, there were houses that could be in good condition. For example, in the late 80s and 90s of the last century, the situation was definitely poor, whereas, relatively speaking, in the 50s and before that, it was good,” notes Ryabtsev.
The specialist emphasizes that energy efficiency depends not only on materials but also on adherence to construction standards. If all regulations are considered during the construction of housing, such homes will retain heat better even under challenging weather conditions. At the same time, it is important for the house to be in proper condition: regular ceiling repairs, installation of quality double-glazed windows, and modern doors should be carried out.
What Affects Heat Retention and How to Improve Energy Efficiency
The duration for which a house can retain heat in the absence of heating is influenced by several factors: the previous temperature in the room, the degree of wall heating, and the temperature of the outside air. It is also worth considering the nature of interruptions in the heating system: whether it is a complete cessation of heat supply or merely a reduction in the temperature of the heat carrier.
Energy expert Andriy Zakrevskyi notes that old houses over 20 years old require thermal modernization. This is a set of measures aimed at improving energy efficiency: insulating facades, replacing windows and doors, and modernizing heating systems. This is particularly relevant for typical Ukrainian high-rise buildings, such as “Khrushchyovkas”, where full thermal modernization of buildings is currently being carried out, rather than just individual apartments.
Panel high-rise buildings, constructed mainly in the late 80s and 90s, retain heat the worst. When choosing housing, experts advise paying attention not only to the age of the building but also to whether it was built according to state construction norms and regulations. It is worth noting that these regulations were in effect until 2014–2016, after which they were abolished, so the quality of some modern new buildings may be inferior to older, well-built structures.