Is Commercial Radiant Heating a Good Option?

Maintaining a comfortable indoor climate in commercial buildings is an overhead most operators and owners should revisit often. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DoE), radiant heating is a good option compared to other heating systems. For instance, forced-air and baseboard heating. If you’re considering the benefits of radiant heating for your commercial property, take a moment to review some important facts.

How Does Commercial Radiant Heating Work?

It’s all about the medium. In radiant heating systems, a liquid-based medium uses electricity or other thermal energy sources to retain and radiate heat throughout the building. Commonly, systems dissipate the building’s heating source through the floor or walls. Thus, allowing heat to rise and maintain a comfortable climate inside the structure.

What are the Pros and Cons?

In traditional HVAC systems, recirculating the air helps maintain indoor temperatures via the air handling systems. While these systems work, the air is prone to lose heat quickly. Therefore, requiring large volumes of recirculation to maintain the required temperature settings.

Unlike air handling systems, radiant heat supplies thermal energy directly to the floors and walls. Heat retention, therefore, increases and reduces the required energy input to warm the entire structure.

Which Flooring Works Best with Radiant Heating Systems?

Radiant heating comes in three types of systems:

  • Forced air heating
  • Hydronic systems
  • And electric heating solutions

Depending on the area where you live, you should select a flooring option that reduces your energy bills and improves thermal efficiency. Choosing tiles and flooring options that insulate against the outdoor climate will provide you with the best results. Specifically, ceramics, porcelain, and stone wool insulation can improve thermal performance and reduce heating costs.

Does Radiant Heating Ruin Hardwood Floors?

No. Radiant heat does not reach the temperatures required to influence your flooring materials. While some materials could impede the radiance, it will not damage or ruin your floor. So, you should still consider elements like moisture buildup and dampness below the floors. All of which may require special considerations from your installer or manufacturer.

Choosing a System for Your Commercial Building

Hydronic radiant floor heating systems can help reduce your energy costs and ensure a comfortable indoor climate throughout different seasons. In most buildings, the addition of a commercial radiant heating system can improve your property values. Not to mention, it will keep occupants happy during cold months without drastically driving up energy costs.

While a typical radiant heating system may be more expensive to install, the yearly savings will make up the difference in your budget over time. Before you decide which option will suit your exact needs, consult with an expert supplier and installer of commercial radiant heating systems.

If you want to find out more about radiant heating systems, reach out to The Severn Group today. We pride ourselves on making sure our clients know exactly what to expect out of their systems. Give us a call today.

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