Surface heating is a modern heating technology that distributes heat across the entire surface of the floor, wall or ceiling, ensuring even warmth in the room. Thanks to the low supply water temperature, it is not only efficient and energy-saving, but also more comfortable than traditional radiator systems.
How does surface heating work?
Heat transfer over a large surface area: Evenly spaced heating pipes (water systems) or heating foils (electric systems) provide a large heat transfer surface. The system primarily transfers heat by radiation, which directly heats objects and occupants in the room.
Low temperature heating medium: Low supply water temperature (30-40 °C) allows for efficient heat transfer while reducing energy consumption.
Due to the low temperature, the system is highly compatible with heat pumps and condensing boilers.
Advantages of surface heating systems
Even heat distribution: Heat emission over the entire surface ensures a similar temperature in every part of the room, eliminating cold zones.
Energy efficiency: Low supply water temperatures reduce the energy demand of the heating system, especially when combined with renewable energy sources.
Comfort: Radiant heat provides a pleasant feeling of warmth even at lower indoor temperatures, while minimizing dust flow.
Space-saving and aesthetic: The heating system is hidden under the floor, wall or ceiling, allowing for free interior design without radiators obstructing the equipment.
Health-friendly: Reduces air circulation and thus dust movement, which is especially beneficial for people with allergies or asthma.
Types of surface heating systems
Underfloor heating: The most common surface heating system, which is ideal for cold coverings, such as tiles, but can also be used under warm coverings if the layering is correct.
Wall heating: It has a larger heat-releasing surface and heats the room faster than underfloor heating. It is mainly used in lower-lying rooms.
Ceiling heating: An alternative solution if the floor and wall coverings or design do not allow for the placement of heating elements. It can be perfectly combined with ceiling cooling.
Surface heating compatibility with modern systems
Heat pumps: Heat pumps operate most efficiently at low supply water temperatures, making them ideal for surface heating systems.
Condensing boilers: Condensing boilers operate with optimal efficiency with surface heating systems due to the low return water temperature.
Solar panels: Electric floor or wall heating combined with solar panels can provide an environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution.
Disadvantages of surface heating systems
Higher installation cost: Installing surface heating systems can be more expensive compared to traditional radiator systems.
Longer response time: The system reacts more slowly to temperature changes due to its greater thermal inertia.
Floor covering limitations: Not all coverings are suitable for underfloor heating, for example thick carpets can impair heat transfer.
Repair difficulties: In the event of a failure, access to the heating pipes may be more difficult, which can increase repair costs.
Summary
Surface heating systems are an ideal solution for creating modern, energy-efficient heating systems. The even heat distribution, pleasant comfort and environmentally friendly operation justify the investment in the long term. Although more expensive to install, the low operating costs and excellent compatibility with renewable energy sources make surface heating one of the most modern heating solutions.