ALTERNATIVE EMITTERS

Trench heating (pictured) A halfway house between underfloor heating and radiators, featuring special convection emitters dug into the floor and topped with a grille. One potential downside of this system is that it doesn’t offer the flexibility of UFH in terms of furniture positioning, as it’s important not to block the vents. Skirting heating Similar principle to trenches, but even easier to install. Pipework is embedded into the back of special skirting boards running around the perimeter of the room. It offers a quick-response system for bedrooms and similar zones, so a good partner for UFH. Electric systems Whether UFH or radiators, electric options might prove to be the most suitable choice in specific circumstances, such as for small bathrooms (for their fast response times) or where you’re looking for a quick and affordable installation. Bear in mind that running costs and carbon emissions will be higher than water-based systems. Infrared radiators is is an intriguing up-and-coming tech. Rather than the conventional route of heating the air in the room (which creates cyclical draughts), these electrically-powered panels work through radiation. is means they directly and near-instantly warm the surfaces and people in a room to the desired temperature. ey’re slimmer, sleeker and more efficient than standard radiators, but currently come with a higher price tag.