Radiant heating (definition)

Radiant heating: main characteristics and features

1. Principle of operation:
   • Infrared radiation: In radiant heating systems, heat is emitted in the form of infrared rays, which directly warm objects in the area, including walls, furniture, and people, rather than the air in the room.
   • Heat transfer: Heat is transferred from the heating source to objects and surfaces in the room, which then begin to radiate heat back into the air, creating a comfortable microclimate.
2. Equipment:
   • Radiant panels: These panels can be installed on walls or ceilings and emit heat in the form of infrared rays. They are often used in residential and commercial buildings.
   • Warm floor: Underfloor heating systems where pipes or electrical cables are laid into the floor are also considered radiant heating because the heat radiates up from the floor, warming the room.
   • Infrared heaters: Portable devices that can be used to heat specific areas or rooms by emitting infrared heat.
3. Advantages:
   • Comfort: Radiant heating provides uniform heat distribution and creates more comfortable conditions as objects and people are warmed directly.
   • Energy efficiency: Because heat is transferred directly to objects and people rather than to the air, such systems can be more efficient, especially in rooms with high ceilings or large windows.
   • Reduced convection: Since heat is transferred directly, convection of dust and allergens is minimized, which can improve indoor air quality.
4. Flaws:
   • Uneven heat distribution: Depending on the installation and location of the heating elements, uneven heat distribution may occur in some cases, especially in large or multi-zone rooms.
   • Initial costs: Installing radiant heating, especially in the form of underfloor heating, can have high initial costs compared to traditional heating systems.
5. Installation and management:
   • Temperature regulation: Radiant systems often use thermostats to allow precise control of the temperature and system settings.
   • Installation: Radiant heating can be built into new construction or added to existing buildings, depending on the type of system and needs.

Radiant heating is an efficient and comfortable way to heat rooms, especially when it is necessary to provide uniform heat and improve air quality.