Heating regimes in old Swedish churches, c. 1880-1980

Abstract

The paper will highlight the use of heating regimes throughout the twentieth century both in large cathedrals and rural churches of medieval origin in Sweden. How have norms of thermal comfort been balanced against conservation needs of the buildings, their interiors and valuable objects? The choice of heating regime in an old church can be seen as a negotiation between different stakeholders. Together these voices have been articulating a discourse on indoor climate since the late nineteenth century when churches in Sweden were first heated. The historical indoor climate in churches is poorly known but often referred to in discussions on what kind of heating and climate is suitable for interiors and their artifacts. This is why it is important to collect empirically based knowledge on the features of the past climate. The historical indoor climate is shaped by several factors. Here we look at heating regimes, meaning how heating and ventilation systems have been selected, designed and used. By studying decision making regarding the choice of regimes and also what experience was drawn from the application of technology we will better understand the priorities made between comfort and conservation aims and how scientific knowledge has been used (or not used) to reach these aims.

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