Radiant panels are a modern and efficient solution for heating homes, but to benefit from all their advantages, they must be used correctly. Despite the ease of use, many owners make mistakes that can reduce energy efficiency or affect the performance of the panels. In this blog, we will discuss the most common mistakes in the use of radiant panels and how you can avoid them to enjoy an efficient and economical heating system.
1. Wrong mounting of the radiant panels
The correct positioning of the radiant panels is essential for an efficient distribution of heat throughout the room. One of the most common mistakes is mounting panels in inappropriate places.
1.1. Placing the panels behind the furniture
The radiant panels must have a free space in front to emit heat efficiently. Mounting them behind furniture or curtains can block infrared radiation and reduce heating efficiency.
- How to avoid this mistake: Mount the panels on unobstructed walls or on the ceiling, making sure there are no large objects blocking the radiation. Avoid positioning behind sofas, cabinets or other large pieces of furniture.
1.2. Choosing the wrong height
Another common mistake is mounting the panels at an inappropriate height. If they are mounted too low or too high, the heat will not be evenly distributed in the room.
- How to avoid this mistake: When mounting the panels on the wall, choose an optimal height of about 1.5 meters for living rooms and bedrooms. For large spaces, ceiling mounting is usually the best option for even heat distribution.
2. Undersizing or oversizing the panels
A radiant panel that is too small will not be powerful enough to efficiently heat a large room, while a panel that is too large can lead to high energy consumption and overheating of the space.
2.1. Choosing the panel according to the size of the room
Many users do not consider the size of the room when choosing the power of the radiant panel. This mistake can lead either to insufficient heating or to unjustified energy consumption.
- How to avoid this mistake: Calculate the required power of the panel according to the surface of the room. As a general rule, for a well-insulated room, you need about 100 W per square meter. For larger or poorly insulated spaces, higher power or more panels may be required.
3. Neglecting room insulation
Radiant panels work best in well-insulated rooms. A frequent mistake is using them in spaces with poorly insulated windows or walls, which leads to significant heat loss and increased energy consumption.
- How to avoid this mistake: Make sure that the room where you install the radiant panels is well insulated. Check the windows and doors for possible heat losses and use thick curtains or additional seals to prevent energy losses.
4. Incorrect use of the thermostat
Incorrect use of the thermostat can lead to inefficient energy consumption or overheating of the room. Many users forget to adjust the thermostat correctly or do not use its automatic functions.
4.1. Setting the temperature too high
Setting the temperature too high on the thermostat will not heat the room faster, it will only consume more energy. In addition, this can lead to thermal discomfort and a suffocating atmosphere in the room.
- How to avoid this mistake: Set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature, around 20-22°C for living areas and 18-20°C for bedrooms. It uses programmable thermostats to automatically adjust the temperature depending on the time of day and your presence in the house.
4.2. Neglecting scheduling functions
Many modern thermostats allow scheduling by time intervals, but some users do not take advantage of this function, leaving the radiant panels to work constantly, even when it is not necessary.
- How to avoid this mistake: Set the thermostat to reduce the temperature when you are away or at night, when you don't need intense heat. This will help you save energy and maintain an optimal temperature according to your needs.
5. The use of radiant panels as the only source of heating in large spaces
In large spaces, the use of a single radiant panel can be ineffective. Radiant panels are ideal for zone heating, and for extended spaces it is necessary to combine them with other heat sources.
- How to avoid this mistake: In large or open spaces, consider using several radiant panels or combining them with a central heating system. Thus, you will get a uniform and efficient heating, without overloading a single panel.
6. Insufficient maintenance of radiant panels
Although radiant panels require minimal maintenance, it is important to keep them clean and in good working order to ensure that they work at maximum capacity.
6.1. Neglect of cleaning
Dust and dirt can affect the performance of radiant panels, reducing their efficiency.
- How to avoid this mistake: Regularly clean the surface of the panels with a soft and dry cloth to remove dust. Periodically check the electrical connections and make sure that the panel is working correctly.
6.2. Lack of periodic verification
A common mistake is to assume that radiant panels always work at maximum capacity without regular checks.
- How to avoid this mistake: Check the operation of the panels annually and, if necessary, call a specialist for a complete overhaul. Thus, you will prevent possible malfunctions and ensure a longer lifespan of the heating system.
Conclusion
To benefit from all the advantages of radiant panels, it is essential to use them correctly. Avoiding common mistakes, such as inappropriate positioning, incorrect use of the thermostat or neglecting insulation, can help you optimize energy consumption and enjoy increased thermal comfort. Intelligent use and proper maintenance will allow you to save energy and extend the life of the radiant panels, while ensuring efficient heating of your home.
The most common mistakes in the use of radiant panels and how to avoid them
