Modelling floor heating systems using a validated two-dimensional ground-coupled numerical model

This paper presents a two-dimensional simulation model of the heat losses and temperatures in a slab on grade floor with floor heating which is able to dynamically model the floor heating system. The aim of this work is to be able to model, in detail, the influence from the floor construction and foundation on the performance of the floor heating system. The ground-coupled floor heating model is validated against measurements from a single-family house. The simulation model is coupled to a whole-building energy simulation model with inclusion of heat losses and heat supply to the room above the floor. This model can be used to design energy efficient houses with floor heating focusing on the heat loss through the floor construction and foundation. It is found that it is important to model the dynamics of the floor heating system to find the correct heat loss to the ground, and further, that the foundation has a large impact on the energy consumption of buildings heated by floor heating. Consequently, this detail should be in focus when designing houses with floor heating.