Trench Heating for Retail Spaces: Creating Comfortable Environments

Retail stores serve as the gateway to millions of consumer brands. Finding a product in a retail store is one of the final steps in the customer sales journey, but there are still many factors that make the customer choose to complete their purchase once they are in a retail space.  

From aisle layout and music volume to colored lighting and interactive endcaps, temperature plays a crucial role in making shoppers feel comfortable and engaged.  Trench heaters are an effective solution to enhance occupant comfort, maintain consistent temperature, and influence shoppers' likelihood to purchase products. 

Working together with additional overhead HVAC or underfloor air distribution (UFAD) systems, trench heaters allow for more control along temperature-sensitive perimeters and high-use entries and exits. This helps to maintain optimal indoor temperatures and comfort levels.  

In this blog, we will share how trench heating systems are an essential solution for retail store owners. 

The Importance of Trench Heating Systems in Retail Spaces 

Retail spaces often face unique heating challenges, such as large open areas and constant door openings, leading to temperature fluctuations and customer discomfort. Trench heaters and trench heating systems offer an effective solution to these problems by providing consistent, temperature-controlled fresh air that insulates the retail store and distributes evenly throughout the space.  

By installing trench heaters along exterior and interior walls, retailers can maintain a comfortable temperature even in high-traffic areas like the checkout lines, ensuring that shoppers feel welcome and relaxed. A well-ventilated store not only enhances the shopping experience but also plays a crucial role in attracting and retaining customers, making trench heating systems an essential investment for any retail environment. 

Trench Heating Systems and Comfortability

Trench heating systems operate by harnessing natural convection and radiant heat to warm spaces efficiently. These systems are typically installed along the floor level, where they release gentle warmth that rises and circulates evenly throughout the room. At AirFixture, we work with our clients and partners to design flexible trench heating units to fit any configuration including traditional in-the-ground trench heaters, wall-mounted units or even ceiling-mounted units. The even heat distribution eliminates cold spots, ensuring a consistent and comfortable environment.  

Retail and consumer science studies have shown that warmer environments increase time spent in stores (Bell and Ternus, 2006 and University of Alberta, 2011). With a correlation between increased time spent in a retail store and increased consumer purchasing, finding the right solution to indoor heating is critical for retail success. In retail spaces, trench heaters create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making the shopping experience more enjoyable for customers. Beyond temperature, the scent of a retail space also plays a crucial role in the customer experience. HVAC systems, especially those ensuring good air circulation, can help distribute signature store scents, enhancing the desired ambiance. Conversely, the initial burning smell often associated with turning on a heater or the cold, metallic odor from air conditioning can be off-putting. Therefore, selecting and maintaining an HVAC system that promotes a comfortable temperature and facilitates pleasant olfactory experiences is essential for creating a positive and engaging retail environment.  

These systems enhance comfort, which can significantly impact how shoppers feel and encourage them to linger longer in the store. 

Benefits of Trench Heaters in Retail Spaces 

Quiet Operations 

Unlike traditional noisy overhead HVAC systems that run throughout the entirety of the store, trench heaters operate at exceptionally quiet levels. AirFixture trench heating units can operate at the same or even higher air flow rates as overhead HVAC units with significantly less noise.  

By having less noise coming from air distribution systems, retail store owners can further customize the shopper experience, adding peaceful shopping music to complement the air-controlled space without the distraction of loud air condition drowning out the music. This feature of trench heating systems helps create a peaceful shopping environment, perfect for customer relaxation and enjoyment.   

Flexibility in Design and Installation  

At AirFixture, we work directly with architecture, engineering and installation partners to custom design trench heating and UFAD solutions tailored to each unique project. Our standard units can be configured for both hydronic and electronic heating and can be physically modified to fit walls of any size or shape.  

With 10 standard finishing color selections and more than 170 special order RAL finishing options, AirFixture trench heating systems will blend right into any architectural or interior design system.  

Each unit comes with detailed installation instructions and can be incorporated into larger mechanical and electrical planning documents. AirFixture trench heating systems integrate seamlessly into any architectural style and floor plan with easy installation and long-term maintenance.  

Maintenance and Accessibility 

Trench heaters take up minimal space and galvanized steel grates can support weighted loads like foot traffic from shoppers. This feature makes shopping spaces along the exterior of retail stores accessible for all traffic including by foot, or rolling on chairs and carts.  

Trench heating units are made for disruptions for business operations. Since the heaters are typically installed at floor level, their maintenance ports don’t require large equipment like ladders, making it easier for maintenance professionals to access the terminals for cleaning and servicing and keeping floor space clear for customers. This feature helps reduce operational downtime and keep retail spaces comfortable for shoppers. 

Struggles with OHAD 

While Overhead Air Distribution (OHAD) systems offer certain advantages, they can also present significant challenges in a retail environment. The operational noise generated by these systems can be disruptive to the shopping experience, creating an unpleasant and potentially irritating atmosphere for customers. Furthermore, the risk of dripping condensation poses a tangible threat to merchandise, potentially leading to unsightly stains or even the complete loss of product, directly impacting profitability. Addressing these drawbacks is crucial for retailers seeking to create a comfortable and damage-free shopping space. 

Trench Heating: The Perfect Solution for Retail Stores 

Trench heating systems offer numerous benefits for retail environments, ensuring a comfortable, efficient, and customer-friendly atmosphere. Their ability to provide even heat distribution, reduce cold spots, and maintain consistent temperatures makes them an ideal solution for addressing the unique heating challenges of retail spaces.  

The quiet operation of these systems, combined with their flexibility in design and easy installation and maintenance, ensures that retailers can provide an optimal shopping experience without disruption. By investing in high-quality trench heating solutions, retailers not only enhance the functionality and appeal of their spaces but also contribute to higher customer satisfaction, encouraging longer visits and potentially boosting sales. 

Contact us today to learn about how AirFixture trench heating and UFAD systems can boost your retail store’s productivity.