Hydronic radiant ceiling heating has some very real advantages, yet it has often succumbed to the marketing of “warm floors” by the radiant industry.
Radiant ceiling heating dodges design issues about floor heights and transitions and compatibility with floor goods.
Radiant floors are only very warm when there is a big heating load on the coldest winter nights. Radiant ceilings do “see” the floor, making the floors feel neutral via the gentle radiation from above. It also can be a savior in very high heat loss “trophy” rooms where the floor just can’t do it.
As the demand for flexible and efficient heating grows, many homeowners are turning to radiant ceiling heat as a smart alternative to floor-based systems. These systems offer all the comfort of radiant warmth without disrupting flooring design or layout.
Radiant ceiling heating systems are especially useful in homes with limited floor space or specific flooring materials. With radiant ceiling panels, heating elements are mounted overhead, making them invisible, efficient, and perfect for modern interiors.
a. Quick and even heat distribution throughout the room
b. No interference with floor coverings or furniture
c. Improved energy efficiency due to lower water temperatures
d. Ideal for renovations and new builds alike
Whether you are using radiant ceiling heat panels in a single room or across an entire home, this type of radiant heating ceiling system ensures comfort with minimal maintenance. Plus, ceiling-mounted radiant heating panels are easy to integrate with modern thermostats and zoning controls, giving homeowners full command over their comfort.
Also, radiant ceiling panels are more efficient than floor heating. A radiant ceiling has the minimal heat resistance of 5/8” sheetrock, while floors can have significant resistance to overcome with flooring goods and furniture.
An Ecowarm radiant heating ceiling can typically operate in water temperature ranges of 80F-95F, while Ecowarm radiant floors will often operate in the 95f–120F temperature range.
The lower the supply water temperature, the more efficient a system is. This application is not for every radiant project, but keep it in your design tool box.
The application of Ecowarm RadiantBoard for ceilings is very similar to that for floor and walls, except much more care and planning must be made to accommodate any ceiling penetrations such as lighting and sprinklers. Typically, more custom routing is called for.
The contractor can cut the panels to be stapled to the joists or can sheath the ceiling joists with 5/8” or ¾” plywood and apply the Ecowarm panels to that surface according to the CAD layout provided by our factory. The ceiling cavity must well be insulated to assure minimum heat loss from the reverse side.
Ecowarm Radiant Heating in Ceiling
Install the PEX tubing according to the layout plan. Tip: Staple up clear plastic over Ecowarm and draw where tubes are with marker. Tack up your sheet rock and place marked plastic on the ceiling to display tubing locations. Screw on the sheetrock avoiding tubing.
The mechanical installer must be sure that air can be eliminated from the ceiling section radiant tubing using a central micro bubbler and complete system air purging on startup. It is highly advisable to have a low temperature thermostatic water control for any areas where a radiant ceiling heating system is used and high surface temperature cut off control. The maximum water temperatures for ceiling systems are typically less than 90F. Overheating a radiant ceiling can be uncomfortable for occupant.
Hydronic radiant ceiling heating has some very real advantages yet it has succumbed to the marketing of “warm floors” by the radiant industry.
First, radiant floors are only very warm when there is a big heating load on the coldest winter nights and radiant ceiling do make the floors feel neutral indirectly. There is much more beyond that. Check out the articles from industry experts below!
Radiant ceiling heating excels in a variety of residential and commercial settings due to its unobtrusive design, energy efficiency, and ability to deliver targeted comfort. Here are some ideal scenarios where radiant ceiling panels and ceiling-mounted radiant heating systems are especially effective:
In spaces with tall ceilings, warm air from traditional systems tends to rise, leaving occupants cold. Radiant heating in ceilings addresses this issue by delivering heat directly to people and objects below, eliminating stratification. It also bypasses poor floor insulation that can hamper floor-based systems.
Radiant ceiling heat panels are a smart solution when tearing up floors isn’t an option—such as in older homes or finished spaces. Installation is quick and non-intrusive, making it ideal for remodeling projects where maintaining existing flooring is a priority.
When design aesthetics matter, radiant ceiling heating offers a clean, hidden solution. There are no bulky radiators or visible vents, just seamless comfort that supports the elegance of luxury finishes, open layouts, and minimalistic design.
Radiant heating ceiling systems operate silently with no fans or air movement, making them perfect for bedrooms, offices, and living areas where noise and drafts would be disruptive. The even heat distribution enhances relaxation and restful sleep.
For homeowners integrating smart thermostats or pursuing passive home principles, radiant ceiling heating panels provide zone-by-zone control and efficient operation at low water temperatures. This helps maximize comfort while minimizing energy consumption.
Systems Supplied
Years Established
Sq. Ft. Sold
Get a free sample by mail.
Delivered factory direct to your jobsite.
