What is the definition of CHP?
Combined Heat and Power (CHP) is the simultaneous generation of usable heat and electricity in a single process close to the point of use.
Why should I consider CHP?
There is no more efficient way of generating electricity and heat, and it is therefore a recognised carbon saving technology. CHP is considered by the European Union and many other countries as an important technology for future CO2 savings. But, apart from the obvious environmental benefits, CHP users make savings on their energy bills – the more you run a CHP unit, the more you save.
Who are SenerTec?
SenerTec are the manufacturers of the Dachs CHP and are world leaders in micro CHP technology. SenerTec was established by the German automotive parts manufacturer, Sachs (the heart of the Dachs is still a Sachs single cylinder four stroke engine). In 2001 SenerTec became part of the Baxi Group which is now part of BDR Group.
What is the Dachs?
The Dachs, SenerTec’s micro CHP system, is 20 year old tried and tested technology. There is simply no other micro CHP system in the market that can compare with the Dachs in terms of track record and number of units installed.
What are the primary fuels for the Dachs?
Natural Gas or LPG.
What are typical applications for a Dachs CHP?
We have installed Dachs CHP products in sheltered housing, apartment blocks, leisure centres, luxury houses, fire stations, hospitals, schools, hotels and many more.
Can I use the Dachs in my house?
The Dachs is only suitable for domestic use in large luxury houses with a swimming pool, underfloor heating or a large enough heat demand to keep the unit running for long periods of time.
I do not have a 3-phase electrical supply, can I install a Dachs unit?
No, due to the type of generator in the Dachs a 3-phase electrical supply is required.
Do I need a boiler as well?
Yes, CHP is not suitable for providing heat for the all-year-round needs of most buildings. Therefore, boilers are required for peak or winter-time heat loads.
How often does the Dachs unit need to be serviced?
The Dachs needs to be serviced every 3,500 running hours. The control panel will alert you to the need for a service visit 300 running hours before the service is due.
Can I access information about my Dachs unit online?
Yes, the control panel on the Dachs unit can be fitted with either an analogue, ethernet or GSM modem that allows both you and SenerTec to log in to a dedicated Dachs website.
What if I produce more electricity than I require?
It will simply be exported back to the national electricity grid.
What if the Dachs produces more heat than the building requires?
The Dachs unit will simply switch off until you have a sufficient heat demand to keep the unit running. In order to maximize a CHP’s savings and running regime it is important to correctly size the CHP to suit the building base load requirements. Please call us for advice on sizing a CHP for your requirements.
Does the Dachs unit have a back up in the event of a grid failure?
No, for safety reasons the Dachs unit will automatically switch off if the grid stops working. This avoids the possibility of any electricity being fed back to a faulty or damaged grid.
Can I connect easily to the national electricity grid?
Yes, the Dachs G5.5 unit complies fully with ESB and NIE requirements for grid connected micro generation.
Are there any grants available for CHP installations?
No, however the Dachs does qualify for Accelerated Capital Allowances. Please contact us for further information.
How much heat does the Dachs unit provide?
The Dachs G5.5 produces 12.5 kW of thermal output which can be increased by up to an additional 3kW with the addition of an exhaust condenser.
How much electricity does the Dachs produce?
The Dachs G5.5 generates 5.5 kW of 3-phase electricity.
My Dachs unit is showing an error code – what does it means?
In the event of your Dachs unit showing an error code, please call us and tell us the three digit code that is being displayed on the controller screen.