A field study of occupant thermal comfort and thermal environments with radiant slab cooling

Abstract

This paper presents the findings of a field study of occupant thermal comfort and thermal environments with a radiant slab cooling system. The study combined field measurements and questionnaires based on the ASHRAE RP-921 project protocol. A total of 116 sets of data from 82 participants were collected in summer and winter. The results reveal that occupant whole-body thermal sensations with radiant cooling were consistent with the PMV model. The main advantage of radiant cooling for thermal comfort was found to be reduced local thermal discomfort with reduced vertical air temperature difference as well as reduced draft rate. The survey results revealed that 14–22% of participants in the study reported local cold discomfort in the arm–hand and the leg–foot regions. The results indicated that there may be lower limits on air speeds acceptable to occupants. Statistical analysis indicated that occupant thermal votes were free of significant correlation with personal, contextual and psychological factors. Suggestions to improve the questionnaire and the field survey process are offered.