Radiant panels, the silent sentinels on your walls or ceilings, are champions of electromagnetic radiation. They provide a more energy-efficient, quieter, and evenly distributed heating experience compared to traditional convection heaters.
Radiators, contrary to their radiant name, do not warm rooms by creating radiant heat. They work on the principle of convection by warming the air that rises to the ceiling and cools down again. Radiant panels, in contrast, are more akin to our beloved sun. They radiate their warmth to people and objects in their vicinity.
Understanding the energy consumption of radiant heat panels is crucial to calculating their operating cost. The energy use of a radiant heat panel depends on its wattage, which can be calculated by dividing the total wattage by 1000 and then multiplying by your local kWh cost.
As mentioned above, a 400W panel consumes 0.4 kWh per hour. If the national average electricity cost is $0.14/kWh, this panel would cost around $0.05 per hour to operate.
Crucially, radiant heat panels usually do not need to run all day to maintain comfortable temperatures. Because radiant heating systems heat objects and people directly rather than warming the air, the heat is retained for longer. This leads to less continuous operation and, as a result, lower energy consumption.
However, the actual energy consumption and cost will vary based on factors like the size and insulation of the room, the outside temperature, and individual comfort preferences. It’s recommended to consult with a heating professional to get a more accurate estimate of potential energy costs in your specific circumstances.
