As the architectural landscape evolves to prioritise sustainability and adaptability, traditional heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are increasingly being scrutinised for their limitations. These systems have long been effective in regulating indoor climates, but they often struggle to achieve an optimal balance between energy efficiency, thermal comfort, and design flexibility. These challenges are further magnified in modern buildings, where open-plan layouts and stringent sustainability goals demand innovative climate control solutions.
Underfloor HVAC systems have emerged as a forward-thinking alternative, offering a host of advantages over their conventional counterparts. By delivering conditioned air through a raised floor system, these systems enhance airflow efficiency and reduce energy consumption while maintaining superior occupant comfort. Their discreet design also provides architects with greater freedom to optimise interior layouts,
supporting modern trends in adaptable, open-plan environments.
This paper delves into the advantages of underfloor HVAC systems, including their contributions to energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and thermal comfort. It also
considers the importance of specifying a purpose-built floor to ensure the underfloor HVAC delivers optimal performance and longevity