Why is radiant heating more comfortable than forced air heating?
Radiant heating is more comfortable than forced air because of the mode of heat transfer.
Forced air units utilize a convection method of heat transfer, pulling in cold air, passing it over a heated element, and then circulating this heated air back out to a space. The heated air rises, pushing colder, more dense air down, which is again pulled into the forced air system. This is what is known as a convection current; and, unless you’re cake batter, it is very uncomfortable to sit in.
People commonly refer to the myth that “heat always rises.” This is inaccurate; heated air always rises. Hot air rises because, as it is heated, it becomes less dense than the air around it and therefore more buoyant. Heat itself, however, can be transferred in any direction, depending on the mode of transfer. Understanding this basic principle is important in understanding the distinction between HVAC and radiant technology.