General questions

The ATMOVA components: roof tiles, facades, heat pump, control unit, thermal storage unit, circulation pump, water - glycol fluid

Installing the ATMOVA system

ATMOVA service

Why copper?

Copper alloys are suitable for every architectural variation from rustic to modern, from sophisticated structures in towns and cities to country districts. The alloys may be optimally combined with other building materials such as concrete, stone, marble, and wood.

From an environmental point of view, the high-quality copper alloys used by Swissmetal Design Solutions are manufactured from 90% recycled materials.

Copper and copper alloys provide very high heat conductivity as a fundamental physical property. So they are especially suitable for thermal applications.

What happens when the outside temperature sinks to less than -15 °C? Will the system still work efficiently?

The system operates up to –15 degrees. In the case of short-term temperatures dipping below –15°C, the thermal storage unit we recommend will sustain the structure’s heat requirements for a certain period of time.

Can I use the ATMOVA system with my floor heating system?

Floor heating systems operate at low temperatures. The ATMOVA thermal heat pump delivers a starting temperature of 45°C to 60°C for the heating circuit. This makes the ATMOVA system with its integrated thermal heat pump ideal for operating with floor heating systems.

My house has an old heating system with radiators. Can I still use the ATMOVA system?

In principal, yes. However, its efficiency is diminished since ATMOVA works best when the heating flow temperature is low.  

Can I expand the ATMOVA system at a later point in time if I want or need to?

Yes, you can expand your ATMOVA system. Generally, when one speaks of extending the system this means covering a larger area of the roof. It may be necessary to recalculate the system’s energy balance in order to determine the need for an appropriate heating pump and a new thermal storage unit.

What can I do about snow on my ATMOVA roof?

ATMOVA has also been conceived for these kinds of circumstances. ATMOVA’s control unit recognizes the phenomenon through its specially positioned sensors. So in the case of a slab of snow on your ATMOVA roof, the heat flow is simply switched over to the roof tiles outside. The snow melts and, in normal operations, the system recaptures the thermal energy from its surroundings. This also works with ATMOVA’s thermal storage unit which redelivers heat.   

Is the ATMOVA system suitable for any type of building?

The ATMOVA system is generally suited for any type of construction, whether it be a facade for a modern office building or roof tiles for private or commercial properties. The ATMOVA system was primarily conceived for historically protected and high quality buildings. Even roofs with an incline of less than 18° can make use of ATMOVA’s functionality without any difficulty.  

Can I regulate the temperature in individual rooms using ATMOVA’s control unit?

The intelligent ATMOVA control system regulates the heat supply (flow temperature) for the boiler temperature. In order to regulate individual room temperatures you can use the control devices on the heating units already in place. Generally, these are the widely used thermostats on heating units or the separate electronic heating controls for floor heating systems. 

Can I recycle ATMOVA?

Yes. ATMOVA is a sustainable heating system. All of the tiles can be completely melted down and reused in another form.

How long will it take for ATMOVA to pay off?

The length of time depends on the price trends of fossil fuels and the type of roof tile used (including installation costs). Based on current calculations, this timeframe is between 10 and 15 years and is, therefore, within the same timeframe as other more conventional heating systems.    

Can condensation occur? To what extent?

Yes, condensation can occur on relatively colder surfaces when there is a higher level of ambient humidity. When humid, relatively warm air, comes into contact with a cold surface, it quickly cools down. Cold air absorbs less humidity than warm air. This “excess” humidity settles as water droplets on cold, even surfaces. The resulting humidity is not a problem, however, because the condensation on the roof tiles runs off just like rain. The liquid under the tiles trickles onto the sarking membrane and is carried away in the same way.

How can your system be monovalent and what does that mean?

In this case, monovalent means that the heating system can provide the entire energy needs of a structure without additional support. The ATMOVA system works along the same principle as geothermics – except that the thermal collector is the roof. This feature makes the ATMOVA system monovalent so it can provide the total energy needs (heating, warm water) for a building year round.
There are some reasons, however, why we recommend the use of an additional heating system: In some regions climatic conditions prevail which do not allow for the monovalent use of the ATMOVA system. This applies mostly to areas where temperatures under 15°C extend for long periods of time.
If during a heating season your building repeatedly requires more heating for short periods of time, it is sensible to set the ATMOVA system for the average energy consumption of the structure (saving on investment and operational costs). In such cases, the short-term, incidental peak load can be covered by an additional system such as a gas-fired heating unit. In considering such alternatives, it is important to maintain the cost-effective performance of the ATMOVA system.

What are the ATMOVA roof tiles made of?

ATMOVA roof tiles are true-to-scale facsimiles of conventional roof tiles which also have the same coating weight per unit as clay brick tiles. An ATMOVA roof tile is composed of 2mm thick sheets of a special brass alloy (CuZn40MN2Fe1) known as CW723R. This material, also known as architectural bronze, is pressed into the desired tile form.

How can an ATMOVA roof tile guarantee constant and steady energy efficiency?

The pivotal element is the special brass alloy used. Through its high specific thermal capacity of 380 J/kg K and its thermal conductivity of 78 W/m K (at 20°C), this material offers a consistently high thermal energy output for the entire system for years on end. The connecting thermal heat pump ensures the steady recovery and transfer of thermal energy. 

Do I have to use a specific tile form or can I get any form I want?

There are regional differences in the shape and variety of tiles. ATMOVA tiles can be made in all tile forms. At the moment, however, ATMOVA tiles come as crown tiles or Jura roof tiles. ATMOVA will gradually be able to provide other forms. 

How can you ensure that the water-glycol fluid mix will not leak?

On the backside of the ATMOVA tiles there is a water-glycol fluid mix which circulates through copper piping at a constant pressure in order to transport the thermal energy from the roof in the direction of the thermal heat pump.
ATMOVA uses the latest technology to protect against leaks. Each individual ATMOVA roof tile has a serial number and is connected with a high-pressure connector. This ensures that no liquid escapes after being checked by an experienced professional.  

In time, will my ATMOVA roof be covered in moss or turn typically green due to its copper content?

An ATMOVA roof will not gather moss nor take on that well-known copper rust color. The reason for this is the material used. Our special alloy seals itself within a few weeks as a result of its patina finish. Climatic conditions no longer have to impact the roof tiles or the environment. 

What is the lifespan of an ATMOVA roof tile and facade?

ATMOVA roof tiles and facades have an almost indefinite lifespan. They are very stable and accessible products. Their patina finish limits the damage caused by environmental factors. Architectural bronze has been used in the construction industry for many decades.

What conditions must my roof fulfill in order to install the ATMOVA system?

In order to install ATMOVA the roof must have a sarking membrane which protects it from condensation. Moreover, we recommend a lightning conductor since ATMOVA works with a metallic material. Hooks for a so-called chimney sweep ladder must be planned for the roofer so that installation and repairs on the roof can be carried out professionally.
An additional condition must be fulfilled for purely chemical reasons. Roof gutters may not be electro-chemically inferior to the copper used in the ATMOVA system. This means that aluminum and zinc gutters may not be used. Alternative materials include stainless steel, synthetic or copper.

Is an ATMOVA roof loud when it rains or hails? 

No. Indeed, an ATMOVA roof is made of metal, but the volume level is not affected for several reasons. For one, no roof will ever be covered entirely with ATMOVA roof tiles. Another reason is due to the warm conductive liquid flowing through the backside of the tiles which insulates the sound when it rains or hails.

How are the facade components fastened to the outside facade?

Facade elements are discreetly and securely fastened to the structure with appropriate fittings and clips.

In time, will my ATMOVA roof be covered in moss or turn typically green due to its copper content?

An ATMOVA roof will not gather moss nor take on that well-known copper rust color. The reason for this is the material used. This special alloy seals itself within a few weeks as a result of its patina finish. Climatic conditions no longer have to impact the facade elements or the environment.

How does a thermal heat pump actually work?

Simply put, a heat pump works like a refrigerator, but instead of cooling, its warms. A cooling agent circulates in the heat pump which is responsible for the steady transportation of energy. The cool conductor fluid absorbs the thermal energy in the vaporizer and is condensed through a compressor. This physical state causes a large increase in temperature to occur. Now the recovered thermal energy can be transferred to the heating circuit though the condenser. Then there is a decrease in the temperature of the cooling agent and in the pressure through a thermostatic expansion valve. Afterwards, the cooling agent is once again set for recovering thermal energy.     

Is it possible for me to continue to use my own thermal heat pump?

No, unfortunately this is not possible. The reason is that the ATMOVA system uses its own complementary and intelligent heat pump, which was tested at low temperatures. By not using the specifically designed heat pump, ATMOVA’s constant and reliable functioning cannot be guaranteed.  

What is the maximum temperature the thermal heat pump can generate?

The temperature generated depends on the external temperature. The heat pump can generate a so-called temperature hub of 70 Kelvin. Based on this, the heat pump can provide a maximum temperature of 65°C.

How much energy can I actually save with a thermal heat pump?

In the summer months the ATMOVA system can generate warm water without the use of the heat pump.  For this reason, and the optimized heat pump, the ATMOVA system provides a coefficient of performance (COP) of over 4. The COP for a heat pump indicates how much energy in kilowatt-hours (kWh) can be generated per kilowatt-hour consumed. This means that per 1 kW 4kW are generated.

Under these conditions, compared with conventional oil fired heating you can save approximately 70% in energy consumed in kWh.

How much electricity does the thermal heat pump consume on a yearly basis and what will this cost me?

About 25-30% of the energy consumed for the ATMOVA system is electrical. If your household has a thermal consumption of 30,000 kWh per year, then this would equal approximately 8,570 kWh of electricity per year.

How much space would the unit occupy in my cellar?

The system components to be installed in your cellar fit into any standard-sized cellar. The heat pump is about the size of a refrigerator or clothes dryer (ca. 1 m2). In addition, you will need an electrical cabinet and a hydraulic power unit, which are also about the same size. 

What is the system’s coefficient of performance (COP) and what does it mean?

The coefficient of performance (COP) of a thermal heat pump indicates how much energy can be generated in kilowatt-hours (kWh) per kilowatt-hour consumed.

The ATMOVA system generates a COP of over 4. This means that per 1kW 4KW can be generated.

How loud is the heat pump when it is in operation?

The heat pump has to do quite a bit of work to recover ambient heat. This work is noticeable in its quiet vibration, much like that of a refrigerator.

How do I operate the ATMOVA system?

You just have to set the desired temperature on the touch panel of the system’s control unit. The system automatically recognizes weather conditions and sets itself according to the conditions.

What happens if there is an electrical power outage?

If there is an unexpected power outage, the system automatically goes into a secure mode in order not to damage the unit. Once power is returned, you can simply do a normal restart.

In the future will I be able to get replacement parts for my control panel? Does the current programming language have a future?

Should you have any problems with the control panel, you can get in touch directly with your ATMOVA contact person. They will provide you with assistance as quickly as possible.
ATMOVA does not use a PC-based programming language for its control panel. This ensures that it is synchronized with the unit and all its components. Furthermore, this programming language guarantees a high level of security against external manipulation and malfunctions.

 

Do I always need a thermal storage unit?

ATMOVA absolutely recommends the use of a thermal storage unit, even though its use is not required for the ATMOVA system to function. The storage unit is there to provide a steady stream of energy in case, for example, the system must be temporarily shut down during a service visit. In addition, the thermal storage unit offers the advantage of being able to better use high summer temperatures. The ATMOVA system then works without the heat pump and can store the thermal energy in the storage unit. This efficient method of operation increases ATMOVA’s efficiency factor and reduces costs considerably.

How much space does a thermal storage unit need?

The size of the storage unit depends on how much thermal energy needs to be stored and what type of storage medium (water for example) will be used.
Thin and long or thick and wide – the dimensions of the storage unit can always be adapted to the system and on-site needs. The standard size is 90 x 200 cm (diameter x height). Once it is positioned, an additional insulation is affixed to the thermal storage unit.

How hot can water in the thermal storage unit get?

Water is automatically heated to over 65°C at regular intervals in order to prevent the growth of Legionella bacteria. In order to avoid bringing the water to a boil, however, it is never heated above 85°C. This considerably reduces calcification in the system.

Why do I need a circulation pump?

During the summer months, and at high temperatures, the ATMOVA system does not work using a thermal heat pump, but uses a circulation pump instead. The system then becomes a solar thermal unit.  The circulation pump ensures that the water-glycol fluid mix is channeled at a consistent pressure to the roof. Once heated there, the fluid returns to where the recovered thermal heat can be stored in a hot water accumulator or in a thermal storage unit. 

How long does a circulation pump operate?

ATMOVA is an all-around intelligent system. Whether it is operating with or without a heat pump in the summer, the pumps only function when it is necessary to meet certain energy needs (such as warm water, etc.)

What is the lifespan of the conduits?

The ATMOVA system uses conduits made of copper or synthetic materials. The conduits have a very long lifespan of 50 years. On the roof the ATMOVA system uses pure metal fittings (no synthetic or paper seals) so that no adverse changes need to be feared.

The water-glycol fluid mix must be changed about every six years since it gradually loses its antifreeze properties.   

Can I still use existing water and heating conduits?

In order to use the ATMOVA system without any impediment, it must be ensured that all of the conduits fulfill certain standards. If this is not the case (to be determined by a trained professional), all of the conduits will need to be replaced. 

Does the entire conduit network also need to be insulated?

In order to limit the loss of heat as much as possible, insulating the conduit network makes a lot of sense. This insulation process automatically takes place when we install your ATMOVA system.

Above all, proper insulation protects pipes from possible condensate in warmer periods. An experienced energy consultant can advise you on your building’s needs.

How are the conduits connected to each other? Are they leak proof?

ATMOVA conduits are connected with special, completely metallic fittings. These fittings have been in use for many years in the solar, pharmaceutical and chemical industries. They can sustain several bar of pressure and ensure the seamless operation of the system.

At what pressure does the fluid circulate through the conduits?

The pressure depends on the delivery height. Generally, the pressure is a maximum of 3 bar.

What is the temperature of the water-glycol fluid mix in the conduits?

This depends on what the ambient air temperature is and how high the radiant heat is, but generally between –20°C and 80°C.

ATMOVA can provide cost effective thermal energy using the roof tiles as thermal collectors with an ambient air temperature as low as –15°C. It is not the absolute ambient air temperature which is decisive for the ATMOVA system, but rather the temperature difference between the ambient air temperature and the temperature of the water-glycol fluid mix in the tiles. Using our thermal heat pump technology the temperature difference between the heat source and the heat sink can amount up to 70 Kelvin. Thusly, even with a very low absolute external temperature a sufficiently high flow temperature can be achieved for heating purposes. During the summer months a thermal heat pump bypass directly takes over the system’s operations.   

How hot do the tiles get?

On the inside of the tile the standby temperature of the water-glycol mix can reach 78°C. The temperature on the outside of the tile is the same.

Do I have to tile the entire roof?

No. As a rule of thumb, approximately 15% - 20% of the usable or livable space to be heated must be tiled in order to produce sufficient thermal energy.

Is the weight load of the roof construction higher than for conventional roof tiles?

No. ATMOVA roof tiles are modeled on original roof tiles in both form and weight. This ensures that your roof will not suffer under excessive weight.

How much do I have to calculate for building expenses?

Building expenses are limited to the roof, the heating cellar as well as connecting these.

Will I have to carry out any illegal changes in a historically protected building?

No. In normal circumstances this is not allowed anyway. The ATMOVA system firmly stands behind not making illegal changes so that your property can maintain its old charm well into the future.

How long does it take to tile an average sized roof?

It takes approximately two and half days to cover an area of 20m2 with ATMOVA tiles for a house with an energy consumption of about 12 kW.

What should I do with the old heating installation? Can I keep it and combine the old and new systems?

The ATMOVA system is a completely monovalent installation. You do not need another heating system, including your old one. In order to save on space, we also recommend removing old components. Depending on their condition, however, old heating systems can continue in use. If your existing thermal storage unit is in good condition, it can also be used (see above).  

Do I have to replace my heating units?

No, but for energy reasons it is recommended that you use modern heating units with thermostats.

What do I do if I want or need to retile my roof in a few years?

It is not a problem if you want or need to retile your roof. ATMOVA roof tiles can be easily removed by a professional and reinstalled afterwards.

Do I have to renew or improve my roof insulation at the same time?

As a basic principle, one should live by the following rule: “Not needing energy is better than saving energy.” Therefore, insulating your roof makes a lot of sense, if you haven’t done it already. Insulating your roof from moisture, however, is definitely a necessity.

Do I have to have the control unit for the ATMOVA system specially checked by an electrician?

This is already included in the installation of the ATMOVA system and will be done by one of our installation specialists,

Do I need an extra lightning conductor? 

Due to the tiled metals, a lightning conductor is recommended. If you do not already have one, you should have one installed.

Does the system require regular maintenance or service?

In order to operate your ATMOVA system long-term and free of malfunctions, it should be maintained at regular intervals. Every six years the water-glycol fluid mix should be changed due to its chemical properties. The control unit itself is maintained with regular automatic updates during the system’s entire life cycle.

How long is the ATMOVA system warranty?

ATMOVA has a 5-year warranty on the heat pump and 10-year warranty on the roof tiles.