Journal of Indoor Environmental Quality

Sums it All Up

"The project also proved the inherent value in right-sizing systems: carefully analyzing demand and taking advantage of energy storage opportunities to reduce system size to handle peak period demands. This can reduce the size of the HVAC system without sacrificing comfort. It also allows for strategic cost transfer: using the savings from one cost-saving material or method to invest in other, costlier items.

The effort to reduce energy demand runs in tandem with right-sizing systems. Whether it’s through occupant behavior changes, fixed external shading, or better-performing technologies tied to the use of heating, cooling, lighting, and other major users of energy, this means the supply systems can be smaller and, therefore, less expensive." Excerpt from PLATINUM HEALTHCARE BUILDING ON A CONVENTIONAL BUDGET, This multiuse healthcare center aims to join the world’s green building elite through innovative engineering BY ANDY FRICHTL, PE, AND JERRY YUDELSON, PE

RBc:This is a must read article...two thumbs up. Be sure to check out the authors book...more at this link:

GREEN BUILDING BREAKTHROUGH: Portland Engineering Firm Shows Path To Platinum-LEED On Conventional Budget

Pennsylvania Library A Must Read

"Reduction of air infiltration through the use of concrete walls and insulated windows will significantly reduce operating costs and enhance indoor air quality and maximize natural daylighting. Low-E double-glazing; energy efficient mechanical systems, including radiant floor heating and operable windows; and the possible use of a geothermal heating system will also contribute to a LEED rating." Excerpt from Frederic Schwartz Selected to Design Pennsylvania Library Openness and connection to nature, as well as historic relevance, were important factors for the design jury. by Meaghan O'Neill Interior Design · March 15, 2007 Read more about this radiant heated library.

RBc: As an avid fan of higher learning this project is top notch in my books.

Origins of Ondol

“Gudeul refers to an under-ground heating system, or to the floor or room that is heated by the system. Folklore expert Son Jin-tae presumes that “gudeul” originates from “guun dol,” or “baked stones.” “Ondol,” or warm stone, was created by a combination of Chinese characters to describe “gudeul” before hangul was invented.” Excerpt from A warmer backside for Asia by You Sang-chul, Asia news editor at the JoongAng Ilbo., Copyright by Joins.com, Inc.  Photo Credit: Korea Tourism Organization, All Rights Reserved 

RBc; History shows the Koreans using this style of heating over 23 centuries ago. As noted by Wendy Croix, Interior Design School Review Columnist on a Business Week interview with Korean design professor Lee Kun Pyo, the, “Traditional Korean homes, even the poorest, have heated flooring--the “ondol gudeul” --an interior feature Western designers now think of as a luxury for upscale homes.”

This is another example of us North American’s taking the most basic stuff - make it expensive and tag it as a luxury item…it just doesn’t have to be this way.

Discuss this topic at our online forum.

Tonights Webinar On Radiant Cooling and Heating

Tonight Only, 8:00 P.M. EST, March 07th, 2007 One Hour Live Webinar on Radiant Cooling and Heating - Register Here.

Common Ground

I want our readers to meet John Vastyan, whom I've known for several years. John specializes in marketing communications and business-to-business PR, serving the radiant heat, hydronic, geothermal, plumbing & mechanical, HVAC and broad construction markets. His website has a wealth of information in the articles he's published. John has also worked with our current Carlson Holohan Industry Award of Excellence Winner, Mr. Dave Yates.  Spend some time there, you'll be glad you did.  Visit Common Ground

Jeff Howell says....

"If you still insist on heating your conservatory, then the most efficient way is to have a solid floor with underfloor heating." Excerpt from On the level: can I heat my conservatory? © Copyright of Telegraph Media Group Limited 2006. Article written by Jeff Howell Author of the The Builders' White Boots

Reminders

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So there ya have it....

"From the Inside Out, which contains case studies of schools and children’s centres that have participated. One of the shining examples in the booklet is the Jubilee Sure Start Centre in Tulse Hill, London. Out of their consultation with the children and staff came a building designed with underfloor heating and toilets that are colourful and spacious enough for adults." Excerpt from Pupils drawn to grand designs, SCHOOLS should involve children. Obvious, isn’t it? Not so obvious when it comes to building design though, according to School Works, an education advisory body.  Copyright 2006 Times Newspapers Ltd.

RBc: So there ya have it...when it comes to having a roof over your head - involve your kids...maybe you'll end up enjoying comfort only these school kids appreciate!

Here It Is - The 2007 Radiant Heated Allure

Folks, check out this baby! Among a gazillion creature comforts, it comes with Massage/heated driver and passenger seats with adjustable headrests, and Radiant Floor Heating!

RBc: Surely if you can get a radiant heated coach you must be able to get a radiant heated home? No? Not offered by your builder? Pity!