An increasing interest in energy-efficient products and ways to minimize a home’s carbon footprint are on the minds of many Americans. Even the U.S. government is getting involved by offering tax breaks to homeowners who envelop themselves in energy-efficient products and practices. With this growing trend, radiant heating continues to emerge from Europe and into the U.S. housing market.

Why choose radiant technology? Some believe radiant heat can efficiently heat a house or specific zone more effectively than forced air. “In conventional [forced-air] heating, the air pushes to the center of the room and goes up while losing heat to the ceiling; whereas radiant heat starts at the bottom of the floor and is evenly distributed, losing less heat,” says Sharon Mangino, general manager of U.S. operations, Warmup Inc.

Radiant heat can also eliminate cold and hot spots in a building. Homeowners can feel much more comfortable at lower room temperatures because heat is distributed so evenly, says Larry Drake, executive director, Radiant Panel Association, Loveland, Colo.

Builders have two radiant heat options: hydronic or electric systems. Hydronic systems (those using water) are more prominently used in new construction, whereas electric radiant is used more in remodeling projects. “The electric systems are limited to electricity, and hydronic systems can use any [power source]. Hydronic systems offer more [power-supply] flexibility; electric is simpler,” Drake says.

Hydronic systems integrate well with many green technologies including solar and geothermal systems. “Radiant heating is the best way to distribute thermal solar heat into a space. It makes solar collectors more efficient as well as creates a more comfortable environment in which to live. It’s the same with geothermal systems,” Drake says.