Radiant ceiling panels, or chilled floor slabs can used in lieu of conventional systems to provide space conditioning. These systems improve energy efficiency and minimize the architectural impact of HVAC systems. Unfortunately these systems are probably not appropriate if used in conjunction with operable windows in humid areas, due to the possibility of condensation problems during the summer months.
Pros: Quiet Energy Efficient Architectural Impact reduced Cons: Difficult to provide Latent Cooling (Dehumidification). Condensation on radiant surfaces may create indoor rain. Limited to spaces with relatively low cooling loads Slab type systems may be difficult to control, as they don't "change direction" quickly due to their high thermal mass.
There are several ways around the condensation difficulty. One solution is to use a radiant cooling device with its own condensate drip pan. Edwards Engineering makes a device they call the Valance Heating and Cooling system. They are ugly, but they work very well in the right application. Princeton University has installed them in their Scully Hall Dormitory. They are so happy with them that they are now standard for all new dormitory projects there.
See also Chilled Beams
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Last Modified January 2, 2002