For the energy saving effect, has TermoDeck considered the fans running for longer times during non-occupancy hours as well?
Yes. The fan is smaller in TermoDeck but it runs for a longer time. The total running cost for the fan might be similar compared to conventional air-cooled HVAC systems but the fans will be using off-peak electricity for much of the time. Since the installed cooling load and electrical power needed is around 50% smaller, the fan will also be reduced by 50% making the capital cost lower for the fan. When local cooling devices are used, such as chilled beams and fan coils, the fans are often smaller as the supply air is only used for ventilation purposes and the cooling is achieved via chilled water. The fans can therefore consume more energy than water-cooled HVAC systems. In both cases, the total energy consumption will still be smaller for TermoDeck as the free night air is used to cool the building and the stored heat in the slabs is keeping the building warm during winter.
