Maximizing Efficiency From the Ground Up

AirFixture’s Trench Heating will increase your market value by maximizing indoor floor space, providing better occupant comfort and elevating aesthetic appeal with matching finishes and styles.

Besides getting new buildings off to the right start, our trench heating can also breathe new life into existing buildings. Many of these have radiators and other old, expensive and inadequate heating and cooling systems that are depressing your building’s value.

We do want to preface this blog with mentioning that it is specifically focused on what trench heaters are and how they operate. With our premium SoHo line, we have developed a trench heater capable of combining both heating and cooling elements. SoHos have capacity to be installed in a trench, wall mounted or even stand-alone.

What are trench heaters?

Trench heaters, or perimeter heaters, replace the need for wall-mounted radiators. Standard radiators use heated water or steam to heat the exterior fins (often made of metal or cast iron), which in time heat the surrounding air. As the heat rises, new fresh air comes in and takes its place, which eventually rotates the heated air up and out as the cycle repeats.

Trench heaters utilize a much lower water temperature and come in a variety of sizes. Just one small trench heater is needed for the entire area - no need for multiple radiators or other forms of heat distribution. They provide comfort and consistent temperature in areas where it would otherwise be difficult to install permanent heating. They work by creating an air curtain, or trench, of air over an open area. This helps keep the space comfortable, even when temperatures outside start to fluctuate. Trench heating offers improved comfort, health benefits, energy savings, and design flexibility over traditional heating and cooling systems.

Trench heaters can be used in a variety of settings, from residential homes and businesses to applications like auditoriums. In addition to heating and/or cooling a room, they can also help reduce energy costs. This makes them an ideal choice for those wanting to cut down on their energy bills, while increasing occupant comfort and available space.

How do trench heaters work?

Designed to fit within “trenches” in the floor, these trench heaters connect to your heating units and use both natural convection and fan assistance to eliminate drafts.  In addition to improving occupant thermal comfort, trench heating doesn’t sacrifice wall space — it frees up space and boosts your building’s aesthetic appeal.

Trench heaters use a combination of high efficiency tangential fans and electric heating element or hydronic cooling coils to generate warm and/or cool air. The air is then circulated up throughout the room. They are highly energy efficient, as the trench heater only affects the area directly above it – this helps prevent energy waste.

Trench heaters are an efficient way to keep comfortable without increasing energy costs or taking up too much valuable space. They are easy to install, provide reliable performance and can help make any area more comfortable.

How are trench heaters installed?

The installation of trench heaters is straightforward. First, the area that you want to heat must be measured accurately so that the correct size of trench heater can be obtained. The heater will then need to be connected to an electrical supply and installed in a concrete trench. Once the heater is inserted in the trench, attach the grille so it is flush with the floor. You can walk on the grilles immediately after installation.

Do trench heaters use a lot of electricity?

No, trench heaters don't use a lot of electricity. According to the University of Michigan, space heating accounted for 16% of U.S. commercial building energy use in 2010. Installing energy efficient trench heaters in commercial buildings can help lower the energy costs for commercial buildings. Our SoHo Trench Heaters have been shown to reduce our clients’ energy costs by 10 - 20%.

How are trench heaters a design-friendly option?

Trench heaters have long been a favorite of architects, developers, and contractors. Architects appreciate that they have a discreet appearance that works with any flooring, and come in a variety of lengths, colors, finishes, and patterns. Developers love that their low first cost goes hand in hand with their life long energy efficiency. Contractors like that you can walk on them immediately after installation, and they fit in seamlessly with both new builds and renovations. Everyone appreciates that trench heaters maximize the most available floor space. Trench heaters also make condensation a non-issue; this makes them the perfect choice for floor-to-ceiling windows featured in historic buildings and conservatories.

What are the benefits of trench heating?

While traditionally utilized in mostly commercial buildings, trench heaters can provide many benefits for residential use as well. They are energy efficient, quiet, cost-effective and easy to install. This makes them an excellent choice for anyone looking to reduce energy costs while keeping a room comfortable. Additionally, trench heaters can help improve air quality by circulating fresh air through the space, keeping a low air flow that does not circulate dust and allergens. Trench heaters also require little maintenance compared to a traditional overhead VAV system.

Interested in learning more about trench heaters and the impact they can have on your energy efficiency, and comfort? Contact us to today to learn more.[gem_button text="Speak to an Expert" corner="3" size="medium" size_tablet="medium" size_mobile="medium" icon_pack="elegant" icon_position="right" link="url:https%3A%2F%2Fairfixture.com%2Fcontact-us%3Futm_source%3Dwebsite%26utm_medium%3Dblog%26utm_campaign%3DIndoor_Air_Quality|title:Speak%20to%20an%20Expert" text_size="15"]