Jun 23 2005
Orbit Manufacturing, a leading provider of high-quality electric radiant heating solutions for residential and commercial applications, answers consumers' questions about radiant heating, which is used inside to warm floors in individual rooms or to heat an entire house.
Outside, it is used for snow and ice melting on roofs and gutters or driveways, sidewalks, walkways, handicapped ramps and patios. Radiant heat can even protect soil from frost in a greenhouse.
1. What is radiant heat? Radiant heat is heat transmitted by infrared waves from an energy source; this is how the sun warms the earth.
2. What are the benefits of radiant heat? Orbit's electric radiant heating systems are safe, since they operate without the moving parts, exposed heating elements or open flames that exist in gas and oil heating systems and in baseboards. Radiant heating is efficient because it raises the surface temperature of what it is warming, providing comfort at a lower room- air temperature than other systems. Plus, radiant heat only warms the surrounding surfaces. The heat doesn't rise to the ceiling where it is not needed, which wastes energy. Radiant heating is cleaner than other heating methods. Since heat is radiated through a house rather than forced by air, less dust and mold is circulated, reducing allergic reactions and other medical ailments.
3. How does electric radiant heating work? Radiant heating cables are installed just underneath the surface. When the surface temperature reaches the predetermined setting, the cable begins to warm. As the cable heats up, it warms the surface, in turn warming whatever comes in contact with the surface, such as your feet, the air or snow and ice.
4. How do I control the temperature? Orbit's electric radiant heat systems are self-regulating -- the cable is controlled by a thermostat for floor warming, or by an automatic temperature and moisture sensor for snow and ice melting, and operates only when you need it.
5. Where can I install a radiant heating system? Electric radiant systems are safe to warm just about any floor, including tile, stone, marble, hardwood, laminates or carpet, or melt snow and ice from any surface such as concrete, brick, pavers or asphalt.
6. What will it look like in my house? Orbit's electric radiant heating systems are totally concealed. They do not change the look of a room at all.
7. How long will my radiant heating system last? With proper installation, electric radiant heating systems should last as long as the floor. And with no mechanical parts, an electric radiant heating system should have a longer life than other types of heating.
8. Who should install my radiant heating system? A qualified installer should install your radiant heating system. There are experienced installers in virtually every part of the country, including Orbit's nationwide network of distributors.
9. When is the best time to install radiant heat? Indoor radiant heat systems can be installed at any time, especially during construction or remodeling. Snow and ice melting systems should be installed during the spring and summer, long before the snow begins to fall.
10. What kind of maintenance is required for my electric radiant heating system? None! With no mechanical parts -- get comfortable, relax, and enjoy the warmth!
For more information about radiant heat and radiant heating systems, please contact Orbit Manufacturing, 215-453-9228, http://www.OrbitMfg.com