The Benefits Of Radiant Heating Systems
To get a clearer understanding of radiant heating systems it helps to understand what radiant energy actually is. As its name implies, it is energy that radiates from a source. That energy usually comes in the form of electromagnetic waves which is commonly found in heat sources such as solar and thermal, but can also be found in many other forms. The energy comes from the objects temperature and radiates in the space around it. A good example would be how the sun warms the earth through the sheer energy emitted from its high temperature. Another good example would be a fireplace filling a room with heat. These are just some of the most common sources of radiant energy that anyone would be familiar with.
Radiant heating systems warm objects directly, unlike the counterpart convection heating. Convection heating systems warm the air around you, while radiant heating systems warm an object such as the floor, walls, and/or ceilings. The heat from those objects radiates into the room, warming it in the process. For this reason, radiant heat is more energy efficient though it is sometimes used alongside convection systems. As for warming objects outdoors, radiant energy is typically used to keep surfaces functional not to provide warmth. This is because air moves and circulates, thus pushing the heat away from an area. A good example of functional use of radiant heating would be heated driveways and runways, since it serves to keep those surfaces clear of ice and snow, making those areas safer for vehicle operation. Another example would be roof heating systems which helps prevent long-term damage of houses and buildings due to ice and snow erosion of surfaces. Still others find them useful in the garage.
Radiant heating systems in homes are most often used in conjunction with other heating systems to more effectively warm them. In the past, radiant heating was used primarily in homes to provide warmth. Think of the days when wood burning stoves and hearths served as both cooking and heating appliances in a single home. In modern times, convection heating has become more common as furnace systems frequently use air to push heat into the house. Fireplaces are considered a luxury in homes today, not a necessity. Since old-fashioned radiator systems occupied wall space and were dangerous for wandering children, they have become much less common in homes.
The pros to radiant heating are numerous. Since they heat objects directly, they are ideal for long-term heating of a room. However, the larger the room the longer it takes to heat it. Old fashioned radiators (those that are hot to the touch) are dangerous for children as they can easily burn themselves. However, modern technology has developed radiators which are cool to the touch, but put out the same amount of heat energy so this is something to keep in mind when shopping around. Electrical radiators are also often fire hazards. Care must be taken to ensure they are positioned in an area clear of objects and that the cords and outlets are appropriate for the heater.
The greatest benefit to radiant heating systems is that they have little to no impact on room humidity and they don’t create drafts, two critical elements to maintaining the feel of a warm space. This is especially true of hydronic radiant floor heat. Convection heating systems dry out air causing your skin to evaporate moisture and thus making the room feel cooler. Radiant heating does not create such problems, thus making them warmer and comfortable. It just might be the heating option for you.
