Radiant and Forced-Air Heat Pros and Cons

With so many home heating options available, it can often be a daunting task for consumers to decide which one is best for their homes. While knowing the pros and cons of radiant heating and forced air heating won’t ever solve the boiler vs furnace debate, it can certainly assist you in your decision making. Armed with the pros and cons of each will help you decide which one is best for your individual needs.

The Pros and Cons of Radiant Heating Systems

Probably the biggest advantage to radiant home heating systems is the evenly distributed warmth that delivers ultimate comfort. It’s like being warmed by the sun on cool day. Radiant heat travels through the indoor space without over-heating any one area. Radiant heat systems only distribute heat when it encounters cooler surfaces. Whether you have carpet, hardwood or ceramic tile floors, they will all be warm to barefeet.

Water is one of the best conductors of heat. Since radiant heating systems use water to carry heat, its temperature can be accurately controlled for more even heat will less temperature spikes. With radiant heating systems, it’s also easier to zone the heat in a building or home. With zoning, you can keep temperatures higher in the bedrooms and cooler in other areas like the kitchen.

One con associated with radiant heating systems is that they are more costly to install compared to forced air heating systems. The installation of hidden pipes in floors or ceilings increases labor costs. Although they may be a bit unsightly, many consumers opt to install baseboard radiators as a cheaper alternative.

The Pros and Cons of Forced Air Heating Systems

One of the main advantages of using a forced air heating systems is that a central air conditioning unit can be installed without having additional ductwork or vents. Compared to radiant heating, the home is heated more quickly. Even though some spots in the home may be cooler or warmer, forced air heating can keep the rooms in your home at a relatively even temperature. These systems also filter the air before it is dispersed and eliminates the need for an additional filtration unit.

Compared to radiant heating systems, these systems require more regular maintenance for optimal performance. Maintenance incudes duct cleaning and repair, preventive HVAC service and changing air filters. Forced air heating systems also tend to be noisy as sound travels through the vents. With a forced air heating system, a lot more dust and debris get blown around in the rooms. You also have to be careful of the placement of furniture, as these items can easily block airflow.

At Commonwealth Cooling & Heating in Lorton, VA, we carry and install a wide range of leading brand radiant heating systems and forced air heating systems. Customers can take advantage of our Internet discounts on select systems along with HVAC repairs and maintenance. With our deferred interest financing plans, you can enjoy an affordable monthly payment on a new system.