Radiant Heat - What are the Best Options for You?

It seems that everyone is talking about radiant heat nowadays. With the emphasis on clean, renewable heating sources, radiant heat has earned its rise to the top in terms of efficient home (and business) heating solutions. As consumers have discovered the comfort and benefits of radiant heat, the result has been an increase in demand and a proliferation of radiant heat products.

But what is the best radiant heat system for you? Is there one radiant heating solution that can be touted as "the best"?

It is important to understand that there is not one single radiant heating system that is ideal for every application. Some floor heating systems are best suited for heating tile floors, while others are better suited for warming hardwood floors, and so on. Also, the performance of a radiant floor heating system depends a great deal on what type of subfloor you have as well as the insulation (if any) and finished floor surface.

Key Points for Potential Buyers

Deal with an established radiant heat provider with a proven track record. Make sure they have qualified experts on hand who can answer any questions you may have regarding your radiant heating system.

Make sure your radiant heat provider also includes complete system engineering and design services. Some suppliers may offer slightly lower prices on their radiant heat products but not include system engineering services with detailed autoCAD layouts. A radiant heat system is only as good as its installation, so be sure to work with a supplier that includes comprehensive system engineering and design with its radiant heat products.

Deal with a radiant heat provider that offers several different brands and types of radiant heat products. (Don't let a provider lock you in to the only brand that they carry.) Talk to radiant heat experts who offer more than just one or two products. And deal only with unbiased professionals who are willing to explain the pros and cons of the different products. No two radiant heat systems are exactly alike, so a true professional will ask you a lot of questions about your project before recommending the best radiant heat solution for you.