Comfort Line - Questions and Answers

A bathroom can be one of the more difficult rooms to heat because frequently there is very little available wall space. This quarter, our questions and answers segment discusses the options available to heat a bathroom.

How can I get more heat in my bathroom?

The traditional method would be heating ducts in the case of a warm air system or baseboard in the case of a hydronic (hot water) system.

Another traditional method is a hydronic fan coil unit, commonly known as a wall or kickspace heater. However, there are number of new alternatives which, in many cases, produce superior results. These alternatives include radiant underfloor or radiant ceiling heat, towel warmers that act as radiators and radiant baseboard.

What is radiant heat and how does it work?

Radiant heat is different from normal convection heat because it heats objects rather than the air. It is generally installed in the floor or under the floor and uses low temperature water to make the floor toasty warm and comfortable. Radiant heat can also be installed in the ceiling with much the same effect as underfloor radiant heat.

How can a towel warmer also be a radiator?

These devices look like towel racks but contain a hollow core. Hot water circulates from your system inside the unit, warming the towels and producing enough heat, in the form of BTUs, to heat the bathroom. These towel warmers/ radiators are very attractive and come in many shapes, sizes and colors. They can be matched to fit the decor and heating requirements of virtually any bathroom.

What is radiant baseboard and how is it different from regular baseboard?

Radiant baseboard is a special low profile baseboard that works like underfloor radiant heat by heating objects rather than the air. Radiant baseboard is one inch wide and five inches high. It mounts flush to the floor and looks very similar to floor molding. It comes standard in white but can be painted any color. Compared to regular baseboard, radiant baseboard is much more attractive and provides superior comfort.