característiques tècniques

Perimeter heating

Pregunta: It seems to me that perimeter heating systems are not usual in Spain, or at least I am experiencing some difficulties trying to find them. Is my perception correct? If it is, what are the reasons and what are the alternatives?

Respuesta:

The concept of perimeter heating in Spain, as happens with other solutions of a high power per surface ratio, is not popular at all due to the mild climate. Maybe it is also important to note that Spain is a country with a strong production of conventional radiators (Roca, Férroli, Rayco, Manaut…), a fact that no doubt has been very influential in determining what the custom is in terms of heating installation design.

Perimeter heating usually appears when large windows are used, particularly if they go from floor to ceiling, and an aesthetically-unobtrusive source of heat is required. But if these situations appear too frequently in a building, sometimes underfloor heating becomes a better solution. Anyway, if underfloor heating is discarded, there is still the chance to use more or less conventional radiators, but configured in a "linear" way (in which the height of the radiator is sensibly smaller than the length).

Although doing this by combining aluminium or cast iron elements is technically possible, the resulting radiator does have a very high amount of joints (a lot of elements are needed) which means a higher risk of leaks, air (noise), etc. In comparison, a tubular radiator (Runtal, Irsap) might be safer, because its only weak points are the welding spots in the ends of the tube. The tube can be quite long and it is still totally watertight.

Fecha de la consulta: 18/11/2003

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