The Energy-efficient Alternative
Radiant cooling is a comfortable, quiet, energy-efficient alternative to traditional air conditioning in commercial buildings. Radiant cooling is designed to be a passive system that uses off-peak electric power at night, which reduces the need for energy-intensive HVAC air conditioning during the day. This offers the ability to downsize chillers and eliminate individual air-conditioning units.
Radiant cooling takes advantage of the energy storage capacity of concrete floors for cooling a commercial structure. In a radiant cooling system, energy moves towards the cooled surface, lowering the air temperature.
Radiant cooling eliminates the drafts and temperature fluctuations common in traditional HVAC systems, and is especially effective in high-glazing areas where solar gain is a concern. It also avoids problems with mold and allergens spread by forced-air systems, making it an ideal choice for hospital and healthcare environments.
A Solution for Every Application
Uponor radiant systems offer unique advantages, including the ability to work with existing HVAC systems to conserve energy during peak operating hours. Radiant systems offer the ability to accurately control and vary temperatures in individual rooms, areas or zones throughout a structure, further saving on energy costs. And no matter which installation method is used, radiant systems save floor space by eliminating the need to install mechanical equipment in the conditioned area.
Key Benefits
- Energy savings average from 17% in cold, humid climates to 42% in warm, dry climates
- Particularly effective for building designs incorporating large glass surfaces that carry high direct solar loads
- Allows you to establish a centralized location for the control system and mechanical equipment, simplifying installation, operation and maintenance
- Systems can be designed to transfer heat away from one area of a building to another when needed
Typical Commercial Cooling Applications
Business Applications: Office buildings, manufacturing facilities, retail spaces, warehouses and distribution centers
Institutional Applications: Educational facilities, correctional institutions, healthcare facilities and hospitals
Residential Applications: Hotels, residential high-rises, dormitories and barracks
Recreational Applications: Gymnasiums, sports stadiums and resorts
Cultural Applications: Museums and churches
Typical Commercial Cooling Installation
Full Installation Methods Guide