Finding the right heating solution shouldn’t just be about keeping you warm. It should also be about reducing your energy bills by employing an efficient system.
Radiant heat is becoming a more popular choice within Australian homes, but it’s important to understand the pros and cons of the system to make sure it’s the right solution for you.
What is radiant heat?
Radiant heat is the effect of feeling warmth emanating from a hot object, such as a radiator or a stovetop.
Hydronic heating systems use radiant heat and can be installed through various methods, from radiator panels to underfloor heating. As underfloor heating, there are a variety of ways for radiant heating to be installed, including suspended, in-slab, in-screed and the Minitec system.
Hydronic systems pump heated water from a boiler, which is then circulated through tubing under the floor or panels in the walls or ceiling.
Used in underfloor heating, the entire floor of your home will be warmed from the bottom up, with the heat then transferring directly from the flooring.
As as the heat isn’t blown into the air, less warmth is lost through windows and doorways. One of the most efficient solutions for warming up any space, radiant heat can help you save money on your energy bills, reduce wasted energy, and keep your home toasty year-round.
The pros of radiant heating
Hydronic radiant heating systems are increasingly popular in Australian homes and commercial buildings. They are a cost-effective and efficient solution, providing numerous benefits.
Efficient heating solution
Radiant heating warms up everything in the home, not just the air, as with traditional heating solutions. Radiant heating instead disperses heat more evenly.
Installing radiant heat using in-slab floor heating is a great way to enjoy the benefits of radiant heating systems. Not only does it provide an even transfer of gentle heat into every room, but it’s also a silent heating solution that occupies no space.
Healthier for the home
Radiant heat is more healthy for the home than conventional heating systems.
Unlike air-forced systems, radiant heat doesn’t blow hot air through the home. This means dust and allergens aren’t circulated through the air, making it a good option for homeowners who suffer from allergies.
Underfloor heating also does not require cleaning as with fan-forced heating units.
Radiant heating systems are also virtually silent, causing minimal disruption to the home environment.
Improved temperature control
Hydronic heating systems provide greater control over temperature. They can be controlled through one central thermostat, which displays the temperature in your home. This allows you to only radiate heat in the rooms you need, reducing your overall energy usage and costs.
For a more customised experience, by using radiators with individual thermostats, you can set the desired temperature of each room without wasting heat.
With radiant heat, heating is more uniform, and there are no cold zones in the home.
The cons of radiant heating
While there are numerous advantages to using radiant heat, there are some factors people may consider cons.
Upfront costs
Many may find the upfront cost of installing a hydronic radiant heating system to be too expensive.
While it can be more costly than conventional systems, it’s important to weigh up the upfront expense of installation with the long-term benefits you can gain.
As long-term savings can be made thanks to a more efficient system, radiant heating solutions generally provide a good return on investment within just a few years.
Reliance on boiler
The installation and use of a boiler is necessary for radiant heating. This may not be a con for all, but it is something to consider when choosing the right type of heating solution for your home.
This can result in additional costs if you don’t already have a boiler installed and need to purchase one.
Choosing the right heating solution for your home
There are pros and cons to radiant heat, but how much they impact on your decision can depend on your personal preferences or priorities as to what you want out of your heating system.
When looking to install a heating system in your home, it’s important to get expert advice on what may be the best solution for your needs.
