Thermal Comfort in Indoor Spaces with Radiant Capillary Heaters

Abstract

Capillary heat exchangers are a great alternative to conventional radiators or electric heaters when used with heat pumps due to larger area and therefore a lower working temperature. In this work, we study thermal conditions in a model room using either capillary or conventional heaters. Experimental measurements in a special test building are used to validate and adjust numerical models. The results show that the vertical temperature distribution is similar with both heating systems, but air flow velocities are considerably higher and floor temperature is less uniform in case of radiator heating. Overall, the capillary system provides more uniform thermal conditions.

Model of radiant capillary heating and cooling system

“…Such temperature ranges can significantly increase the energy efficiency of systems especially in combination with renewable energy sources like heat pumps, e.g. ground, water or air heat pumps with a liquid agent in an internal loop [4,5].…”