Ceiling Panel Cooling and Heating: Is This European Style a Good Option for You?

October 13, 2015

Originally the technology used to heat and cool water was used in flooring. For many new homes, the technology was a wonderful way to reduce carbon output, made the home more energy efficient, cut down construction costs and labor, and create a more fluid and ascetically pleasing home. While it helped reduce bulky ductwork and ventilation, it did not work as well as desired in temperate areas. In the state of Connecticut, the floor heating and cooling did not work as well with the extreme changes in temperature and humidity. It worked during chillier seasons but it was still unreliable in the summer. For many places, ceiling panel cooling and heating was a better option. Here’s what to consider about ceiling panel cooling and heating:

Italian import

Salvatore Zarrella was the original designer of the radiant heating and cooling system and when he learned about using radiant systems on the ceiling instead of on the floor were being used in Italy he was intrigued and wanted to experiment.

By making the water within the system the same temperature as the dew point outside, he was able to keep the homes he was working in comfortable. They simply needed to remain humidity-free inside to prevent any bacteria or mold.

What this could mean

Because the electricians, plumbers, and other technicians only had to wait for ventilation systems to be installed, they were able to move quickly, sometimes a whole month ahead, which saved money in time and labor.

The radiant system also makes it possible to save money for years after the home has been built. This is because the amount of energy used to create and even heat or cool within the house is much less than traditional HVAC systems. They also require less of the house to be filled with ventilation systems, which will save money in construction and upkeep of the home.

Before you decide to build your home with a radiant system be sure to research the contractor and installation process well. Talk with each possible contractor about your home and the possible situation. They will be able to give you sound advice and a rough plan of what they could do for you. Be sure to also understand that the initial building plans may be more expensive than you expected. In the long term, however, you will save money. It may be difficult to part with at first but by calculating bills for the long run you will thank yourself later.