Heating performance and occupants' comfort sensation of low temperature radiant floor heating system in apartment buildings of Korea

Abstract

To develop an energy-efficient low-temperature radiant floor heating system in an apartment housing unit from an improved the overall heating system efficiency perspective, it is essential to consider the occupants' thermal comfort and evaluate the thermal environment and thermal output of the radiant panel. This study evaluated the heating performance of a low temperature radiant floor heating system by monitoring the water flow rates, supply and return water temperatures, indoor room temperatures and floor surface temperatures through field measurements, and surveyed the occupants' thermal comfort through questionnaires. Based on the results of field measurements and the occupants' questionnaires, the heating performance and thermal comfort sensation of a low-temperature radiant floor heating system were analyzed. The design considerations of a low temperature radiant floor heating system are suggested.