What is EN 15316?
[edit] What is EN 15316?
EN 15316 offers guidelines that set out a common calculation method to estimate the energy use and energy performance of heating systems in buildings. The values are calculated for the whole installation and help to analyse the impact on energy performance. The values also help to establish energy performance indicators such as the Seasonal Performance Factor (SPF).
[edit] SPF and heat pump efficiency
SPF is an empirical measurement derived from EN 15316 as the ratio of the heat output and heat input. Although this uses the same formula as the Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP), the SPF calculation goes further. The SPF considers variations in performance over a heating season in the UK as determined in hourly measured temperature indicators. The dwelling heat loss and the hours of operation are considered.
Essentially, SPF describes the ratio of energy supplied to the building by the heat pump, and the electricity used by that heat pump, together with any other system devices. In addition to measuring, SPF can also be used to forecast the efficiency of a specific installation. Although calculating a notional SPF is more difficult.
[edit] SPF and on-site renewable indicators
The SPF helps to calculate the renewable portion of the heat pump output. The UK’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 is supported by efforts of decarbonising our energy supply and improving the energy efficiency of our buildings. Traditional heating systems will increasingly struggle to achieve this compliance given that the new legislation aims for an increase in energy efficiency and a reduction of carbon emissions. The SPF is not an exhaustive indicator of heat pump system performance. But SPF can help to model energy efficiency of a proposed heating system solution and provide a crucial tool to correct heat pump system specification.
Speak to our industry experts to find out more about the EN 15316 standard and to discuss how we can assist with implementation of an energy efficient heat pump solution that can help deliver a futureproof energy strategy for your next project.
--Glen Dimplex Heating & Ventilation 15:01, 10 Aug 2021 (BST)
Featured articles and news
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).
Ebenezer Howard: inventor of the garden city. Book review.
The Grenfell Tower fire, eight years on
A time to pause and reflect as Dubai tower block fire reported just before anniversary.
Airtightness Topic Guide BSRIA TG 27/2025
Explaining the basics of airtightness, what it is, why it's important, when it's required and how it's carried out.
Construction contract awards hit lowest point of 2025
Plummeting for second consecutive month, intensifying concerns for housing and infrastructure goals.
Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025
Examining the state of mental health in construction, shedding light on levels of stress, anxiety and depression.