Electric as an alternative to hydronic heat systems
Hydronics and radiant heating systems go hand in hand not only in most people’s minds when they’re thinking of installing a system, but also in day to day applications. But, even though we focus on hydronic heat, we cannot deny that electric does have it’s place and can be a very good solution too.
The advantages of electric radiant heating when compared to hydronic are really three fold.
Installation ‘after the fact’ can be easier with electric. Due to the nature of hydronic heat and the piping required to be embedded under heated floors, electric under floor radiant heating can be much less complicated to fit in a house after the main heating system is in place, for example in a refurbished room (who wouldn’t want a warm bathroom or bedroom floor) or for an extension.
Instant heat, less waste. When you switch on electrically heated floors the heat is more quickly felt, due to the fact that the water in a hydronic system is heated as it passes around the system, which takes time, then it heats the floor, which then heats the room. Electric systems are much faster to warm up. They also cool faster, which can mean less wasted heat and energy, therefore reduced heating bills.
Better for small rooms, as above with installation in extensions or refurbished rooms, electric floor heating can be more cost effective in smaller spaces, not only due to the nature of the heating, but because the cost of an electric system is steady, but hydronic heating systems value increases with the size of the area you need to heat. Meaning for larger spaces and whole house heating systems, hydronic often offers better value.
In short, electric radiant heating offers low start up cost, fast heat and great levels of control. Hyrdonic heat on the other hand offers greater value in larger installations and a more stable heat supply over time, and more flexibility with regards of energy supply.