[Greenbuilding] economics of radiant floor heating

[warmfloors at shaw.ca]

When it comes to conditioning humans and buildings, I think the study of
exergy (as opposed to energy) also helps to put things into perspective.


This text is an excerpt on exergy from the International Energy
Association...

"Exergy means the quality of energy. A system using low exergy means the
heat/cool energy source temperatures of the system are as close as
possible to the environment and also close to the comfort temperature
for building occupants. The aim of IEA Annex 35 was to promote rational
use of energy by using low temperature heating systems and high
temperature cooling systems of buildings. Besides energy conservation,
low exergy systems can also provide improved thermal comfort. Case
research shows that people with low temperature radiant heating systems
are very satisfied with their thermal conditions. Another benefit of
using low exergy systems is its adaptability to utilize sustainable
energy sources in a flexible way. The main product of 
IEA Annex 37 is the design guidebook that is publicly available."

You can download or order the guidebook through this link:

http://www.lowex.net/english/inside/frames/text/material_in.html

Incidentally, we have a new ASHRAE committee focusing on this topic with
several members of the IEA Annex 37 committee involved.  A number of
seminars were presented at our meetings in Quebec - the crammed rooms
said it all...

Best Regards,

Robert Bean, R.E.T.
Registered Engineering Technologist
ALI Liason / Education Chair for ASHRAE T.C. 6.5 Panel Heating and
Cooling