How it works
The ELIXAIRⓇ climatic well is a network of buried pipes that significantly reduces a building's heating and cooling requirements.
The ELIXAIR® is based on an underground network of pipes that form an earth-to-air heat exchanger. Fresh air circulates through these pipes, where it is naturally preheated in winter and cooled in summer.
This system significantly improves drainage ventilation systems by reducing temperature-related issues, such as condensation or moisture buildup. By integrating this solution, businesses benefit from sustainable construction practices that enhance building efficiency and overall comfort.
💡 Did you know?
- The Provençal well refers to air cooling during summer.
- The Canadian well refers more to air preheating in winter.
- The term climatic well encompasses both functions to provide year-round comfort.
This approach also offers a strategic advantage in preparing for climate change. Adopting local passive systems ensures comfort and resilience in the face of future crises while aligning with global goals for renewable energy and energy efficiency.
Expert Perspective
Michel Le Sommer, President of the consulting firm Le Sommer Environnement
A climatic well will only be efficient if it is combined with a ventilation system that distributes air inside the building. Since 2012 and the implementation of the French RT 2012 thermal regulation, ventilation has not only been mandatory but must also meet strict objectives in terms of energy performance.
The ELIXAIR® functions as a passive climate control system, reducing the need for mechanical heating and cooling. Properly sized according to required fresh air flow, it can achieve up to 30% heating savings in colder months while covering up to 100% of cooling needs in warm periods.
Unlike traditional ventilation fixtures, ELIXAIR® helps prevent slow airflow, clogs, and blockages that may occur in conventional systems.
The ELIXAIR® is based on an underground network of pipes that form an earth-to-air heat exchanger. Fresh air circulates through these pipes, where it is naturally preheated in winter and cooled in summer.
This system significantly improves drainage ventilation systems by reducing temperature-related issues, such as condensation or moisture buildup. By integrating this solution, businesses benefit from sustainable construction practices that enhance building efficiency and overall comfort.
💡 Did you know?
- The Provençal well refers to air cooling during summer.
- The Canadian well refers more to air preheating in winter.
- The term climatic well encompasses both functions to provide year-round comfort.
This approach also offers a strategic advantage in preparing for climate change. Adopting local passive systems ensures comfort and resilience in the face of future crises while aligning with global goals for renewable energy and energy efficiency.
Expert Perspective
Michel Le Sommer, President of the consulting firm Le Sommer Environnement
A climatic well will only be efficient if it is combined with a ventilation system that distributes air inside the building. Since 2012 and the implementation of the French RT 2012 thermal regulation, ventilation has not only been mandatory but must also meet strict objectives in terms of energy performance.
The ELIXAIR® functions as a passive climate control system, reducing the need for mechanical heating and cooling. Properly sized according to required fresh air flow, it can achieve up to 30% heating savings in colder months while covering up to 100% of cooling needs in warm periods.
Unlike traditional ventilation fixtures, ELIXAIR® helps prevent slow airflow, clogs, and blockages that may occur in conventional systems.
Advantages of ELIXAIR®
By integrating ELIXAIR® into building design, companies can achieve:
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Reduced operational costs: Up to 30% savings on heating and 100% coverage for cooling.
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Energy efficiency: Less reliance on traditional HVAC systems, lowering energy consumption.
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Sustainability: Contribution to renewable energy goals and eco-label certifications.
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Comfort and health: Improved indoor air quality with reduced condensation and moisture buildup.
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Low maintenance: Fewer moving parts compared to mechanical systems, reducing risks of failure.
Design and Component Selection
The ELIXAIR® system’s performance relies heavily on carefully selected materials and components, designed to comply with the Tickelmann loop principle. Each duct and pipe in the Earth-Air Heat Exchanger is engineered to ensure uniform pressure drops across all branches.
This requires selecting materials that maintain consistent airflow, resist environmental conditions, and provide long-term durability.
Branches are constructed with identical lengths, equivalent numbers of bends, and standardized equipment to guarantee balanced airflow. When multiple air intakes are integrated, materials are chosen to minimize additional pressure losses while maintaining the same principle: all branches operate equivalently.
For branches furthest from the intake, shortening may be applied, but the choice of pipes, connectors, and fittings always ensures that system integrity and performance remain uncompromised.
By combining high-quality materials with precision design according to the Tickelmann loop, ELIXAIR® achieves optimal efficiency, minimal pressure drop, and long-term reliability.
Before choosing Elixair, it’s useful to know a few key points: it focuses on maintaining air quality, reducing heat loss, and requires a modest outdoor space for optimal installation.
FAQ
1. How does ELIXAIR® differ from a traditional HVAC system?
Unlike HVAC units that rely heavily on electricity and fuel, ELIXAIR® uses a geothermal heat exchanger to naturally regulate temperature. This reduces reliance on mechanical systems and ensures energy efficiency year-round.
2. Can ELIXAIR® be installed in any type of building?
Yes, ELIXAIR® can be adapted to residential, commercial, and industrial projects. Depending on space availability, either horizontal loops or vertical loop systems can be installed.
3. What are earth tubes and why are they important?
Earth tubes are underground pipes that circulate fresh air. They rely on constant ground temperature to preheat or cool the air before it enters the building, improving comfort and reducing energy demand.
4. Does the system require a geothermal heat pump?
In most cases, ELIXAIR® works as a standalone passive system, but for larger installations, it can be coupled with a geothermal heat pump to further optimize heating and cooling performance.
5. Is the investment cost higher than conventional systems?
Initial costs for geothermal system installation may be higher, especially for vertical loop systems, but long-term energy savings and low maintenance requirements ensure a strong return on investment.