Hydronic vs Electric Radiant Heat Panels
When choosing between hydronic and electric radiant heat panels you need to consider factors such as installation complexity, maintenance requirements, energy efficiency, and overall costs.
07/09/2023
Hydronic vs Electric Radiant Heat Panels
Key Takeaways
- Electric radiant heat panels are generally more energy-efficient, easier to install, and require less maintenance compared to hydronic radiant heat panels.
- Hydronic radiant heat panels, although more expensive upfront, can be more cost-effective in the long term and are better suited for larger spaces or whole-house heating.
- When deciding between hydronic and electric radiant heat panels, consider factors like installation complexity, maintenance requirements, energy efficiency, and overall costs.
What is Electric Radiant Heat and How Does it Work?
Electric radiant heat panels work by using
electricity to heat a conductive material,
usually a wire or a mat, embedded within the
panels.
These panels are then installed
on the wall, or ceiling, and as the electricity
heats the conductive material, it radiates
warmth into the room.
The heat is then
distributed evenly across the surface, creating
a comfortable and consistent temperature.
What is Hydronic Radiant Heat and How Does it Work?
Hydronic radiant heat panels use
hot water to distribute heat.
A boiler
heats the water, and a pump circulates it
through a network of tubing embedded in the
panels.
As the hot water flows through
the tubes, it radiates heat into the surrounding
area, warming the surface and, consequently, the
room.
The water then returns to the
boiler to be reheated and recirculated.
If you’d like more information or educational materials as a consumer of radiant heat panels be sure to have a look at
HIES, a consumer protection organisation for infrared heating panels and other home energy products.
Pros and Cons of Electric Radiant Heat Panels
Pros:
- Easy Installation: Electric radiant heat panels are relatively easy to install, making them a popular choice for retrofitting existing spaces or for DIY projects.
- Energy Efficient: Because electric panels convert almost all of the electricity they use into heat, they are incredibly energy-efficient.
- Low Maintenance: Electric radiant heat panels require very little maintenance once installed.
- Silent Operation: Electric radiant heat panels operate in complete silence
Cons:
- Higher Operating Costs: Electricity is generally more expensive than natural gas, so operating costs can be higher compared to hydronic systems.
- Not Ideal for Large Spaces: Electric radiant heat panels are better suited for smaller spaces or targeted heating areas, as they may not be as cost-effective for heating large areas.
Pros and Cons of Hydronic Radiant Heat Panels
Pros:
- Energy Efficient: Hydronic systems are incredibly energy-efficient, as water is an excellent conductor of heat.
- Cost-Effective for Larger Spaces: For larger spaces or whole-house heating, a hydronic system can be more cost-effective in the long run.
- Quiet Operation: Though not silent (like electric radiant panels), hydronic systems operate quietly compared to traditional heating systems, with no noise from fans or blowers.
Cons:
- Complex Installation: Installation of a hydronic system can be complex and typically requires professional installation.
- Maintenance Required: Hydronic systems require regular maintenance to ensure the boiler and pump are working efficiently.
Radiant heat panels
may seem like a new technology for home heating,
but it’s actually been around for quite some
time. For a look back into the past take a look
at this fascinating Washington Post
article from
1982!
If you’re interested in the future,
Ecowatch has recently published an article about
the next step in radiant heat panel technology,
radiant wallpaper, which you can find
here.
Best Use Cases for Electric vs Hydronic Radiant Heat Panels
Electric Radiant Heat Panels
Sunrooms and Conservatories:
These areas
of a home can be particularly hard to heat,
especially in the colder months, as they are
mostly made of glass.
Electric radiant
panels can be a great option as they can provide
immediate and targeted heating to make the space
usable all year round without the need for
extensive installation work that a hydronic
system may require.
Bathrooms:
It's
always pleasant to have a warm bathroom,
especially during the colder months.
Electric radiant panels can provide quick and
efficient heating to make the bathroom
comfortable and can also help to keep towels
warm and dry.
Attics and Lofts:
These
spaces often suffer from poor insulation and can
be expensive to heat with traditional methods.
Electric radiant panels can provide a
cost-effective solution for making these spaces
more comfortable without the need for major
renovations.
Home Gyms & Yoga Studios:
It's important to maintain a comfortable
temperature in a home gym or yoga studio to
ensure a pleasant exercise environment.
Electric radiant panels can provide consistent
and controlled heat to make exercising more
enjoyable.
Guest Rooms:
Guest rooms
are often unused for extended periods and may
not require constant heating.
Electric
radiant panels can provide quick and efficient
heating when the room is in use, without wasting
energy when it's not.
Rooms with High Ceilings:
Rooms with high ceilings can
be particularly challenging to heat as warm air
rises.
Electric radiant panels can help
to create a more even temperature throughout the
room by radiating heat from the walls or
ceilings.
Garages:
Garages can often
be cold and unwelcoming spaces.
If the
garage is being used as a workshop, home office,
or for any other purpose that requires regular
occupancy, electric radiant panels can provide
quick and efficient heating to make the space
more comfortable.
Hydronic Radiant Heat Panels
New Builds or Major Renovations:
If you are building a new home or undergoing
major renovations, this is the optimal time to
install hydronic radiant heat panels.
The installation process involves running pipes
in the floors or walls, which is much easier to
do during construction or major renovation
projects.
Basements:
Basements are
often the coldest part of a home due to their
location below ground.
Hydronic radiant
heat panels can provide consistent and
comfortable warmth to this space, making it more
livable and enjoyable.
Homes in Extremely Cold Climates:
In areas where the
temperature drops significantly in the winter,
hydronic systems can be more efficient and
cost-effective in the long run.
While
the initial installation cost may be higher, the
operating cost can be lower compared to electric
systems, especially if the home is located in an
area with low gas prices.
Comparison of Hydronic vs Electric Radiant Heat Panels
Features
Both electric and hydronic
radiant heat panels have their unique features.
Electric radiant heat panels are easier
to install, require less maintenance, and are
ideal for smaller spaces or targeted heating
areas.
On the other hand, hydronic
radiant heat panels are more energy-efficient
for larger spaces, operate quietly, but require
professional installation and regular
maintenance.
Performance
Both electric
and hydronic radiant heat panels perform well in
distributing heat evenly across a surface.
However, electric radiant heat panels heat
up faster than hydronic panels, providing
quicker warmth.
Hydronic systems, on the
other hand, take longer to heat up but retain
heat longer, providing a more consistent
temperature over time.
Energy Efficiency
Both electric and hydronic radiant heat
panels are energy-efficient options.
Electric panels convert almost all of the
electricity they use into heat, while hydronic
systems use water, an excellent heat conductor,
to distribute heat efficiently.
Costs
The upfront costs of electric radiant heat
panels are generally lower than hydronic
systems.
However, the operating costs of
electric panels can be higher due to the cost of
electricity - typical sitting in the region of
$48 per month.
Hydronic systems have
higher upfront costs due to the need for a
boiler and pump, but the operating costs can be
lower, especially for larger spaces or
whole-house heating.
Response Time
Electric panels heat up quickly, providing
immediate warmth upon being turned on.
Conversely, hydronic systems take longer to
reach the desired temperature as the water in
the system needs to be heated first.
Installation Complexity
Electric panels
have a relatively simple installation process
and can be mounted on walls or ceilings.
Hydronic systems involve a more complicated
installation, including laying pipes and
connecting a boiler and pump.
System Weight
Electric radiant panels are lightweight and
do not add significant weight to the structure
of the building.
On the other hand,
hydronic systems are heavier due to the water
circulating in the pipes.
Suitability for Retrofit
Electric panels can be easily
added to existing rooms without the need for
significant renovations, making them suitable
for retrofit applications.
Hydronic
systems are more suited to new constructions or
major renovations as they involve the
installation of pipes in the floor.
Lifespan
Both electric and hydronic radiant panels
have long lifespans.
Electric panels
have fewer moving parts and therefore less that
can go wrong so you can expect them to outlast
Hydronic their hydronic counterparts.
Hydronic systems have more components, but with
proper maintenance, they can also last a very
long time when compared to other modes of
heating.
Noise Level
Electric radiant
panels operate silently as they do not have any
moving parts.
Hydronic systems may
produce some noise from the circulation pump and
boiler, but this is usually minimal and can be
mitigated with proper installation.
FAQs
Which is better for a small room, electric or hydronic radiant heat panels?
For a small room, electric radiant heat panels are usually a better choice. They are easier to install, require less maintenance, and are more cost-effective for smaller spaces.
Can I install radiant heat panels myself?
Electric radiant heat panels can be installed by a DIYer with some experience in home improvement projects. However, the installation of hydronic radiant heat panels is more complex and typically requires professional installation.
Are radiant heat panels safe?
Yes, radiant heat panels are safe. Both electric and hydronic systems are designed with safety features to prevent overheating and other potential hazards.
Conclusion
When
deciding between hydronic and electric radiant
heat panels, consider factors like installation
complexity, maintenance requirements, energy
efficiency, and overall costs.
Electric
radiant heat panels are generally more
energy-efficient, easier to install, and require
less maintenance compared to hydronic radiant
heat panels.
However, hydronic radiant
heat panels can be more cost-effective in the
long term and are better suited for larger
spaces or whole-house heating.
Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your
specific needs and circumstances. Consider the
size of the space, your budget, and your
long-term goals to determine which option is the
best fit for you.