SoHo Trench Heaters

Trench Heating FAQs

• What Is Perimeter & Trench Heating?

  Trench Heating offers improved comfort, health benefits, energy savings, and design flexibility over traditional heating and cooling systems. 

  Designed to fit within “trenches” in the floor, these trench radiators 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.

• What Are Trench Heaters?

  Trench heater units are the key components to a perimeter heating system.
  
  They are available in both hydronic (water) and electric configurations, and which one you use will depend on the type of heating source to be used. Instead of attaching radiators to the walls, these devices draw air through a grille, heat it, and then allow it to radiate throughout the space.
  
  Hydronic fan terminal units can work with hot water boilers, natural ground heat sources, and solar-heated water systems. Electric trench heaters connect to the building’s electrical system and use heating elements to provide fan-assisted heating.
  
  Regardless of the type, their strong heat output makes them both an ideal primary heat source in addition to providing secondary heating to eliminate downdrafts. 

• How Does Perimeter Heating Work?

  This setup is referred to as perimeter heating because the trench heaters are arranged around the room’s edges, providing a constant heat source around the perimeter.

  Because the grilles are recessed, they dramatically improve the available floor space without having to sacrifice superior heating capability.

  As an alternative to using trench heaters, pedestal heaters can be placed at floor level. Pedestal heaters are available in a range of designs and styles, are easier to install and can greatly enhance a room’s aesthetic.

  Placing the heating units along the perimeter is an ideal way to combat draft zones. Traditional heating systems force heated air into a room that will be chilled again when it comes into contact with windows or outer walls.

  But with trench heating, the airflow draws the cooler air into the trench along the radiator fins, ensuring a continuous warming cycle.