When it comes to heating large spaces such as commercial warehouses, efficiency and effectiveness are crucial. One innovative solution gaining traction among property owners is radiant heating. This system, known for its ability to deliver consistent warmth, has distinct advantages over traditional heating methods.
First, what is radiant heat?
Radiant heating systems warm a space by directly heating objects and people rather than the air. They do this by “radiating” (thus the name) infrared radiation, which is absorbed by surfaces and then re-radiated to provide warmth.
Infared radiation is a good thing. It’s a kind of radiation with a wavelength longer than microwaves and shorter than visible light. These waves are felt as warmth on the skin.
Two types of radiant heat exist in commercial spaces
First, there’s radiant floor heating where tubes or water-heated lines send warmth upward. This method, however, is not common in commercial spaces.
By far, the most common form of radiant heat is overhead heating. This newer method of heating big, open spaces suspends tubes or plaque heaters from the ceiling. Anything the heat hits will be warmed. Radiant heaters are often hung from the ceiling to emit heat in a triangular pattern, but they can also be suspended in parallel lines.
If you’re thinking of the scientific principle stating that “heat rises,” you might wonder how warmth from radiant heaters can fall onto objects below. But radiant heat isn’t heating the air which rises when heated. Instead, it is warming people and objects who do not rise when they get warm!
Traditional warm air heating
Traditional warm air systems heat the air inside the building, which then raises the temperature of objects within the space. While warm air systems are generally more affordable to install than radiant heating systems, they may have higher ongoing energy costs due to potential heat loss. Warm air heating units may also not distribute warm air effectively throughout an entire warehouse, leaving cold spots that can be bad for employees and inventory.
Benefits and Bonuses of Radiant Heating
Energy Efficiency
Radiant heating systems can be significantly more energy-efficient than traditional forced-air systems. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, radiant heaters can reduce energy consumption by up to 30% compared to conventional heating systems. This is due to the direct heating approach, which eliminates the energy losses associated with heating the air. It doesn’t heat air that will escape through windows, chimneys, or cracks. Radiant heat doesn’t heat up the entire volume of air in a large space like warm air heating does.
Cost Savings
Reduced energy consumption translates into lower utility bills. One study published in the journal Energy and Buildings found that warehouses using radiant heating saw a reduction in heating costs by up to 25%.
Enhanced Comfort
Radiant heating provides a more comfortable environment by eliminating drafts and cold spots. The even distribution of heat helps maintain a consistent temperature, which is particularly beneficial in large, open warehouse spaces where temperature variations can be significant.
Improved Air Quality
Unlike forced-air systems that can stir up dust and allergens, radiant heaters do not circulate air. This results in better air quality, which can be crucial in warehouses where clean air is essential for both worker health and product preservation.
Quick Heating Response Time
Radiant systems can quickly warm up a space since they directly heat surfaces rather than waiting for air to warm up. This can be especially advantageous in warehouses with high ceilings or large open areas where rapid temperature changes are often required.
Clean, safe, and low-maintenance
Radiant heaters are considered safe, clean, and low maintenance because they don’t have moving parts that need repair or replacement. Another important factor in its growing popularity is that radiant heat does not release combustion byproducts.
Proof that radiant heat in commercial spaces works
Real businesses have done studies on the impact of their radiant heat in commercial warehouses.
- Case Study 1: A large distribution center in Michigan switched from a traditional forced-air system to a radiant heating system. The transition led to a 20% reduction in heating costs and a 15% increase in employee comfort, according to the facility’s energy audit.
- Case Study 2: An industrial warehouse in California reported a 30% reduction in energy bills after installing radiant heaters. The facility’s management noted improved temperature consistency and less maintenance compared to their previous system.
Elite Heating and Air Conditioning of South Jersey Radiates Professionalism and Knowledge
Radiant heating presents a compelling option for commercial warehouses, offering significant benefits in terms of energy efficiency, cost savings, and comfort. As warehouse operations continue to seek ways to reduce overhead costs and improve working conditions, radiant heating stands out as a practical and effective solution. With its ability to provide consistent warmth and lower energy consumption, it’s no surprise that this technology is increasingly becoming a preferred choice in the industrial sector.
Elite Heating and Air Conditioning is an expert in heating and cooling commercial spaces in the South Jersey area. We understand the power of radiant heat and have installed dozens of radiant systems over the last twenty-five years for satisfied clients.
If you want a company that radiates integrity, professionalism, and expertise, call us.
