An analysis is presented of slab heating as a means of shifting some electric power demand to off-peak hours. The paper focuses on the use of heating elements buried in the sand beneath the slab. Presented are the results of a detailed computer study of slab-heated buildings. Transient simulations of building performance were developed with which to investigate the dynamic performance of slab-heated buildings from the energy viewpoint and to suggest optimum designs for slab heating systems.

The paper presents some details of the thermal response of slab-heated buildings to varying loads and patterns of heat input . The effects of varying design parameters, such as depth of the heating elements, slab thickness, soil properties, and below-grade insulation treatments, are considered. A discussion of the .feasibility of slab heating and a comparison to conventional heating systems are given.

Units: Dual