What The Pros Want You To Know

By James K. Kim

Home and business owners in Westchester County, New York, looking to customize or upgrade their central heating system have several options to consider.

One option that has been growing in popularity is radiant heating.

If you are interested in radiant heat but want to learn more about the pros and cons of installing this type of heating system in your home or business, you are in the right place.

Keep reading for answers to the most frequently asked questions we receive from our radiant heating clients.

What Is Radiant Heating?

Radiant heating transfers heat directly through special piping installed beneath surfaces such as floors, walls, or ceilings.

Through the convection process, warm air naturally rises, delivering heat evenly from the heated surface into the living space.

Types of Radiant Heating Systems

There are several types of radiant heating systems, depending on the heating source and installation method. At Cottam Heating and Air Conditioning, we recommend and install the following types:

Electric Radiant Flooring

Electric radiant floors use a network of electric wires installed beneath flooring materials with strong heat transfer properties, such as ceramic tile.

This type of radiant heating is often used as a supplemental heating source for smaller rooms and bathrooms. However, whole-home electric radiant floors are rare due to the higher operating costs compared to hydronic heating systems.

Hydronic Radiant Flooring

The most popular type of radiant flooring is hydronic radiant heating.

Hydronic radiant flooring consists of water-filled tubes installed beneath various flooring types, including hardwood, laminate, carpeting, and concrete. The water in these tubes is heated by a boiler, water heater, or an air-to-water heat pump.

Hydronic radiant floors are commonly used for whole-home heating or larger spaces. Additionally, they offer zoned heating, allowing homeowners to control temperatures separately in different rooms.

Pros and Cons of Radiant Heating

Before installing a radiant heating system, it’s important to consider both its advantages and potential drawbacks.

Pros of Radiant Heating

• Better energy efficiency – No heat loss due to leaky or poorly insulated ductwork, which is common in forced-air systems.
• Consistent warmth – Avoids the hot and cold spots created by traditional forced-air heating systems.
• Lower utility bills – Increased energy efficiency leads to reduced energy usage.
• Minimal visible equipment – No exposed supply or return vents, ductwork, or bulky equipment.
• Quiet operation – No motors, fans, compressors, or noisy radiators.
• Allergy-friendly – No impact on indoor air quality from dust, allergens, or mold circulating through ducts.
• Low maintenance – Requires minimal upkeep beyond regular maintenance of the heating source (e.g., boiler, heat pump).

Cons of Radiant Heating

• Slower heating times – Some flooring types take longer to warm up, though heat retention is higher, reducing the need for frequent system operation.
• Higher installation costs – Retrofitting radiant heating into an existing home can be expensive due to labor-intensive floor modifications.
• Potential repair difficulties – If repairs are needed, flooring may need to be lifted, increasing costs and repair time.
• Flooring compatibility limitations – Ceramic tile and stone floors are ideal for radiant heating, while some hardwood and carpeting types may not conduct heat as effectively.

Conclusion

A radiant heating system is an excellent option for central heating in homes and businesses.

If you are considering installing radiant heating in Westchester County, New York, for new construction or an existing home, contact Cottam Heating and Air Conditioning today for a complimentary consultation.

Our radiant heating experts will design a system that keeps you and your loved ones warm and cozy all winter long.