“Wind-free” or “low-draught” air conditioning commonly describes air-terminal designs that reduce noticeable direct airflow. Radiant cooling uses surfaces to handle much of the sensible heat load. Both approaches still need attention to ventilation, humidity and acoustic design.
| Question | Low-draught air conditioning | Radiant system with conditioned fresh air |
|---|---|---|
| How is heat removed? | Primarily through an air terminal and its heat exchanger. | Through cooled surfaces by radiation and natural convection, with separate air treatment. |
| How is humidity handled? | Depends on coil operation, controls and any additional moisture treatment. | Requires a separately designed latent-load and ventilation strategy. |
| When should design start? | Equipment and services still need coordination; scope varies by installation. | Preferably while surfaces, ceiling build-up and service routes can still be designed. |
| Is response immediate? | Air delivery often offers faster local adjustment. | Depends on the surface construction and control strategy; thermal mass may slow response. |
| Is it silent? | Fans and airflow need acoustic consideration. | Room fan-coils may be omitted, but ventilation, pumps, valves and pipes still require acoustic design. |
| What about running cost? | Compare the actual equipment, climate, setpoints and operating pattern. | Include plant, pumps, ventilation and dehumidification. No universal saving can be assumed. |
| Best starting scenario? | A straightforward equipment replacement may favour an air-based solution. | New builds and major renovations can allow deeper architectural integration. |
When to explore radiant comfort
Consider it when you are planning a substantial build or renovation, value low direct draught and integrated interiors, and can assemble the right design and installation team. Ask for calculations, scope, local service responsibilities and comparable quotations.
When another approach may be more practical
If your home is already finished, there is little ceiling or plant space, or you need rapid intermittent cooling in a single room, a suitable air-based or hydronic fan-coil approach may be a better fit. We can begin by assessing the constraints.