Radiant heating: Helping cut costs

As rising energy prices place a greater financial burden on businesses, and Government regulations continue to demand lower carbon emissions, the specification of an appropriate HVAC system for large commercial and industrial spaces becomes increasingly important.

When heating or cooling a large space it is predominantly the choice of heat transfer system which offers the greatest potential for saving energy. The heat must be delivered as quickly and evenly as possible, but the system must also be able to react quickly to changes in the load of heating and cooling required in order to maximise the benefit that is gained from it. In simple terms: the heat transfer system needs to ensure that the heat is used in the right place at exactly the right time and in the right quantity.

The three key areas which affect the energy efficiency of a heat transfer system are:

 •   Human temperature perception: The human perception of temperature is the arithmetic mean of the indoor air temperature and the surface temperature, e.g. of the walls, ceiling and floor. By increasing the radiant component of a heating system it is possible to achieve a comfortable environment with a lower air temperature. 

•   Heat distribution up to ceiling height: Some air heating systems result in significantly higher temperatures at ceiling level than at ground level due to stratification. This reduces efficiency, increasing energy consumption and carbon emissions.

•   Reaction time and controllability: Systems that can react quickly to change and can bring the temperature rapidly to the desired level will conserve energy and reduce costs. 

Principles of radiant technology

Radiant technology is based on the natural and efficient principle of thermal radiation, as used by the sun. The panels transmit radiant energy in the form of electromagnetic rays which warm or cool the objects and people within a space, rather than the air. The objects and people then in turn, warm or cool the surrounding air to create a pleasant indoor climate with uniform temperature distribution. 

The advantage of radiant technology is the direct heating effect it has on the body, without the need to heat another medium first, such as air. As a result the air temperature of a radiant heated space can be typically 3° lower than that of a conventionally air heated one, while still achieving the same temperature. Because radiant panels are effective throughout the room and on the ground, rising hot air is not wasted.

Moreover, radiant panels react immediately to the hot or cold water entering the panel ensuring a high level of flexibility in temperature control. With a low thermal mass, radiant systems are also suited to low-temperature systems, making them suitable for use with renewable technologies.

It is this combination of functionality, responsiveness and controllability which means radiant heating can reduce energy consumption in space heating by around 44%, making a significant contribution to cost savings and environmental targets. 

In addition to their efficient running costs radiant panels offer installation and operational benefits. Radiant panels can be used up to a ceiling height of 30m and are easy to install and maintain. Silent in operation, they ensure minimal air movement, and being flexible in design can either be hung independently or fitted directly into an existing grid ceiling. Available in single unit lengths of up to 7.5m they are suitable for creating long runs. Being modular, they can be quickly connected by means of press/screw fittings.

Offering a practical and energy efficient solution to temperature control in large spaces, radiant panels offer a year-round solution.