What is a defining characteristic of a radiant panel?

A defining characteristic of a radiant panel is that it transfers heat to objects via radiant energy. This means the panel emits infrared radiation, which is absorbed by surfaces and objects in the room without heating the air directly. As these objects absorb the radiant energy, they in turn warm up the surrounding air, providing a comfortable thermal environment. This mode of heat transfer is different from convection heating methods, which rely on warming the air in the room first, making radiant panels a more energy-efficient option in many settings.

While electric coil systems can generate heat, they do not define the function of a radiant panel specifically. Similarly, cooling air is not an aspect of radiant panels, nor does it simply act as a conventional radiator, which typically relies more on convection methods. Radiant panels are unique in their ability to heat through direct radiation, offering effective thermal comfort by warming surfaces that people and objects in the room contact.