Amidst a harsh winter blackout, a remarkable resident of Vermont has transformed a potential crisis into a heartwarming tale of resilience and ingenuity by utilising an innovative concrete thermal battery to keep her home and neighbors warm.
This resourceful resident, a valued client of the family-operated enterprise Green Wave Distribution, harnessed the power of their revolutionary low-voltage radiant heating system known as STEP HEAT. Unlike conventional heating methods, STEP HEAT capitalises on the inherent properties of concrete slabs, transforming them into thermal batteries capable of efficiently storing and gradually dispersing warmth.
The team at Green Wave, led by the accomplished Operations Manager Drew Mauro, expressed their elation upon hearing the news. Mauro shared, “One of our clients in upstate Vermont experienced a power outage lasting nearly a week during an intense cold spell. However, due to the heat retained within her concrete slab, she managed to maintain an interior temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit for over three days.”
This resident’s home became a beacon of warmth and solace for her neighbors, whose traditional oil and gas heating systems proved inadequate in combating the chilling winter conditions. Amidst the frigid weather, the house, heated by the ingenious thermal battery, served as the sole source of comfort within the neighborhood.
STEP HEAT operates at an impressively low 3-4 watts/ft², significantly less than conventional methods. This heightened operational efficiency leads to notable energy savings and cost reductions. Additionally, the system optimises heat distribution and power consumption by storing excess heat during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower.
By harnessing the concept of thermal mass, the concrete slab, in conjunction with the radiant heating system, functions as a reservoir, storing surplus heat during off-peak periods. This accumulated heat can then be gradually released, ensuring a consistently cozy indoor environment.
“Transforming concrete slabs into thermal batteries yields numerous benefits,” Mauro emphasised. “Beyond enhancing energy efficiency and ensuring steadfast comfort, it reduces operating expenses, offers durability and reliability, and optimises space by eliminating the need for additional heating equipment.”
With estimated energy savings ranging from 40% to 50% compared to traditional heating methods, the story of this Vermont resident serves as a shining testament to how Green Wave Distribution‘s groundbreaking thermal battery concept can revolutionise heating solutions, fostering warmth and resilience within communities even amidst power outages.
