Frequently Asked Questions about Electric Radiant Heating
At Orbit Radiant Heating, we understand that you may have some concerns in regard to radiant heat. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of common questions that we’ve received from interested users like you. If you feel the need for any additional information, please contact us here.
What is radiant heat?
How does electric radiant heating work?
Where can radiant heat systems be installed?
What controls do I need for an electric radiant heat system?
Is radiant heat safe?
What are the benefits of electric radiant heating?
How much does radiant heat cost to operate?
Who should install my radiant heating system?
How long will my radiant heating system last?
Is radiant heat clean?
What kind of maintenance is required for my electric radiant heating system?
What is radiant heat?
Radiant heat is transmitted by invisible heat waves from an energy source; this is how the sun warms the earth. It is distinct from two other methods of heating that are more common around the house. The first, conduction, heats an object by making direct contact, for example, when a stovetop burner heats a frying pan. The second method, convection, is heat transferred by hot air; this method is most commonly used for warming houses, such as in a forced air heating system.
Radiant heat is more efficient than convection heat, because energy (heat) is transferred only when the energy wave strikes another surface. This means only surrounding surfaces – the floor, the air directly above the floor and your feet – are actually warmed. Hot air rises with a convection heating system, wastefully carrying the heat with it towards the ceiling where it is not needed.
How does electric radiant heating work?
Radiant heating cables are installed just underneath the surface of a floor. When the surface temperature falls below the predetermined setting, the cable begins to warm. As the cable heats up during operation, it warms the surface, in turn warming whatever comes in contact with the surface, such as your feet, the air or snow and ice, depending on the application. Electric radiant heat systems are also self-regulating – the cable is controlled by a thermostat for floor warming, or by an automatic controller (temperature and moisture sensor) for outdoor snow and ice melting, and operates only when you need it.
Where can radiant heat systems be installed?
Electric radiant systems are safe to warm just about any floor or melt snow and ice from any surface. For floor warming, electric radiant heating systems can be used with materials such as tile, stone, marble, hardwood, laminates or carpet. Nexans cable systems can be used with slab or frame construction (dry or wet bed) and hardwood flooring.
For outdoor applications, electric radiant heat systems can melt snow from surfaces such as concrete, brick, pavers or asphalt for applications such as driveways, sidewalks, walkways, handicapped ramps and patios. The cables can also be used to protect soil from frost.
What controls do I need for a radiant heat system?
Residential floor warming systems require an electronic line voltage thermostat for systems under 16 amps, or a magnetic contactor for systems over 16 amps. For commercial floor warming systems, a NEMA 1 control panel with line and load terminal blocks, magnetic contactors for each circuit, fusing per NEC pilot light cable and a disconnect switch is required. A NEMA 1 surface mounted control panel with line and load terminal blocks, operating contactors, fuses, transformer, automatic ice controller (optional) and GFCI circuit breakers is required for snow and ice melting applications.
Is radiant heat safe?
Yes, radiant heating is one of the safest heating systems on the market. Unlike other types of heating systems, electric radiant heating operates without moving parts, exposed heating elements or open flames that exist in gas and oil heating systems and in baseboards. Nexans cable is also designed with a patented hidden splice and a waterproof PVC outer jacket for safe use in any environment – inside or out.
What are the benefits of electric radiant heating?
Unlike hydronic, an electric radiant heating system provides you with a system with no moving parts, no exposed heating elements or open flames, and no extra building materials to install. An electric radiant system is also totally concealed.
How much does radiant heat cost to operate?
Radiant heating provides uniform heat and has a comparatively low cost of operation - up to 30% less than conventional systems in most residences. Efficiency is high because radiant heat raises the surface temperature of what it is warming, thereby providing comfort at a lower room-air temperature than other systems. Nexans cable based systems use about the same amount of electricity it typically takes to light the same room!
Who should install my radiant heating system?
A qualified installer should install your radiant heating system. There are experienced installers in virtually every part of the country, including many in our nationwide network of distributors. If you are trying to find an installer by yourself, make sure you ask about their experience and training.
How long will my radiant heating system last?
With proper installation, using a top quality product like Nexans, electric radiant heating systems should last as long as the floor. And with no mechanical parts, an electric radiant heating system should have a longer life than other types of heating systems that use devices such as boilers and pumps. Why would you offer a 30 Year Limited Warranty on heating cables if there were a concern about quality? A Nexans radiant heating system distributed by Orbit Radiant Heating will function effortlessly for decades.
Is radiant heat clean?
Radiant heating is cleaner than other heating methods. Since heat is radiated through a house rather than forced by air, less dust and mold is circulated. This helps reduce allergic reactions and other medical ailments.
What kind of maintenance is required for my electric radiant heating system?
None! Top quality electric radiant heating systems have no mechanical parts and require absolutely no maintenance. Once radiant heating is installed, all you have to do is sit back and feel the warmth.