Modeling and simulation of under-floor electric heating system with shape-stabilized PCM plates

A model is developed to analyze the thermal performance of a room applying a new kind of under-floor electric heating system with shape-stabilized phase change material (PCM) plates, which is verified by our experimental data. This system can charge heat by using cheap nighttime electricity and discharge the heat stored at daytime. The thermal performance of the heating system and the effects of various factors on it are analyzed through simulation. The results show that the heating system can be used in various climates if its structure is properly designed. The model and the discussion are helpful to design such kind of under-floor electric heating systems. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.