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Radiant Floors versus Radiant Walls Using Ceramic Thermal Panels in Mediterranean Dwellings: Annual Energy Demand and Cost-Effective Analysis

Author

Listed:
  • Víctor Echarri-Iribarren

    (Department of Building Construction, University of Alicante, 03690 San Vicente del Raspeig, Spain)

  • Nyuk Hien Wong

    (Department of Building, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077, Singapore)

  • Ana Sánchez-Ostiz

    (Department of Construction, Installations and Structures, University of Navarre, 31009 Pamplona, Spain)

Abstract

The present study focuses on the application of large-format thermal ceramic conditioning panels (TCPs) containing polypropylene (PPR) capillary tube mats in dwellings on the Mediterranean coast. The thermal and energy behaviours were examined once the underfloor heating was installed, and they were compared with an alternative wall application. The system was implemented in a single-family house located on the Spanish Mediterranean coast. After having monitored the house during a complete one-year cycle, the annual energy demand was quantified using the Design Builder tool. TCP panels applied to radiant floors reduced energy demand by 5.15% compared to the wall-layout alternative. Significant reductions in CO 2 emissions were also achieved, as well as a 25.19% reduction in energy demand compared to convection systems. The incorporation of 24 m 2 of solar thermal panels into the system, combined with solar cooling systems based on lithium chloride, was also analysed. A reduction in energy demand of 57.46% was obtained compared to all-air convection systems. Finally, the amortisation periods of the investments in TCP panels and solar panels were calculated and compared to a convection system. Underfloor TCP panels proved to be more cost-effective than a wall installation. The additional cost of EUR 21,844 could be amortised over approximately 14 years with the radiant underfloor TCP system, while the wall TCP would be amortised over 17.4 years.

Suggested Citation

  • Víctor Echarri-Iribarren & Nyuk Hien Wong & Ana Sánchez-Ostiz, 2021. "Radiant Floors versus Radiant Walls Using Ceramic Thermal Panels in Mediterranean Dwellings: Annual Energy Demand and Cost-Effective Analysis," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(2), pages 1-26, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:13:y:2021:i:2:p:588-:d:477610
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    1. Patricia Aguilera-Benito & Sheila Varela-Lujan & Carolina Piña-Ramirez, 2021. "Thermal Behavior in Glass Houses through the Analysis of Scale Models," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(14), pages 1-17, July.

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