All About Electric Ceiling Heaters

Electric ceiling heaters are installed directly into your ceiling to distribute heat throughout your space. Ceiling mounted furnaces like electric heat panels, mini spit systems, and ceiling cassettes are perfect for any space. Keep reading to learn more about the different types and their differences.

Ductless Mini Splits

Mini splits are HVAC systems that heat or cool one specific area of your home. They are usually categorized in two types:

  • Single zone setups are designed to heat or cool one specific area in your home.
  • Multi zone setups connect one outdoor unit to multiple indoor units for heating and cooling in multiple spaces.

Indoor units can be mounted in a variety of locations including the ceiling, wall or floor. This makes them an ideal option for large households or commercial establishments. Mini splits also offer many benefits including:

  • Fine – tuned temperature setting per room
  • Add comfort in seldom-used areas
  • Accommodation for areas with heating and cooling challenges

Ceiling Cassettes

A cassette is a type of ceiling split unit that is installed flush against the ceiling. Its components are neatly tucked away behind the ceiling, leaving a nearly invisible grille in sight.

Unlike wall mounted units that release air from a single direction, ceiling cassettes distribute air from up to four sides. This multidirectional air flow results in a more uniform temperature across the room, eliminating any cold spots. Similar to some wall mounted options, ceiling cassettes offer more control options including:

  • Wall controllers
  • Remote controls
  • Smartphone apps

Before jumping in to install a ceiling cassette, it’s essential to consider the available space. The grille covers 22" to 24" of space while the rest of the components install above the ceiling. Proper planning will ensure that your new system fits seamlessly into the space above your ceiling. Additionally, placing the cassette in a well insulated area will help prevent temperature fluctuations and mold issues.

Split System HVAC

The combination of these devices are designed to heat and cool your space:

  • In cold weather, ceiling heat pumps extract heat from the air or ground outside and transfer it inside to warm your home.
  • On warmer days, a reversing valve allows the heat pump to cool your home by reversing its operation.

Split air conditioner systems combine with heat pumps to warm your space. The pipe carries refrigerant, a chemical that has the unique property of absorbing and releasing heat. The refrigerant circulates between the indoor and outdoor units, efficiently carrying heat where it's needed.

Radiant Heat Panels

These unique heating systems utilize aluminum multi-layer composite pipes which are conveniently attached to the ceiling via rails. Unlike regular electric heating panels, radiant heating is virtually invisible. It is cleverly integrated into sloping roofs to provide even dispersion of heat.

Radiant heat panels are particularly efficient in well-insulated buildings. The radiant heat they produce warms up the ceiling quickly, creating a warm and inviting environment in no time. You can feel the heat from these panels as infrared rays, noticeable shortly after the ceiling warms up.

The two primary types of radiant ceiling heating include water-bearing heated ceilings and electrically operated ceiling heating. The option that carries water works on low flow temperatures. It can even be used for cooling your space in the summer.

When comparing costs, it's worth noting that electric heating panels may come with a lower price tag upfront. However, they demand a substantial amount of energy during operation. This could possibly increase your utility bills. Over time, radiant ceiling heaters tend to be a smart investment overall.

Ceiling Outdoor Heaters

Outdoor ceiling heaters can heat patios, decks, and outdoor dining areas during cooler days and nights. They are less likely to get weather-related damage and may last longer than ground-based heating units when placed high up.

The best heat distribution occurs when outdoor ceiling heaters are installed 8 to 9 feet above the floor. If your outdoor ceiling surpasses the 9-foot mark, ceiling poles can be used to lower the heater to the recommended height. This will ensure efficient heat dispersal, enabling the warmth to reach you and your guests effectively.

Additional Installation Tips for Electric Ceiling Heaters

To ensure your installation is in line with manufacturer guidelines, entrust a professional to install your unit. Their expertise ensures that the heater's benefits will not be lost due to incorrect installation.

Choose an installation spot that is away from any potential fire hazards and permits efficient heat distribution. Before you proceed, remember to evaluate your home's electrical capacity. It's crucial to avoid overloading circuits, as this can lead to system failures and safety hazards.

The best part about working with a professional installer is that they will conduct these checks for you. This will ensure that your home is ready to handle your new heating system.

For outdoor installations, clearance requirements differ between electric and gas heaters. Electric heaters generally need at least 12 inches of clearance from all sides.

For optimal heating and cooling, consider a ceiling split unit or ductless mini split system from HomElectrical. With our vast array of indoor units, ceiling cassettes, and heat pumps, you can achieve efficient comfort for your space!

How does radiant ceiling heating and cooling work?

Radiant ceiling panels are a unique heating system that utilizes aluminum multi-layer composite pipes attached to the ceiling. These pipes begin to radiate heat that warms the ceiling, which then travels throughout space.

During warmer months, the system can be reversed with the use of a cooler source such as a chiller or air conditioner. They absorb excess heat from the room and transfer it to the cooler source.

Do higher ceiling homes cost more to heat?

Yes, homes with high ceilings can be more expensive to heat. This is because heat rises, which means that much of the warm air in a room with high ceilings will rise and stay near the ceiling. This can leave the lower parts of the room cooler.

This case could result in the need to increase your heating system’s output to maintain a comfortable temperature at ground level. Fortunately, the use of ceiling mounted heating systems help to evenly distribute heat throughout the room.

Recommended Reading

Installing a DIY mini split system requires a few steps! Find out more with our blog.

Ductless mini split systems come in many different forms such as single-zone and multi-zone, with heating or cooling capabilities. Choose the right mini split air conditioner or heat pump with this quick and easy guide.

Ductless mini split systems provide heating and cooling without using air ducts. Learn more about their installation and operation with these frequently asked questions.

Learn why ceiling heaters could be the perfect heating solution for your space by providing consistent and unobtrusive warmth.

Elizabeth Cesar
Elizabeth Cesar

Elizabeth is an accomplished graphic artist who enjoys the process of creating and building powerful visual experiences for others. As a content writer for HomElectrical, she turns her creativity into helpful tips and tricks and guides for buyers. In her spare time, she enjoys sightseeing and creating new experiences with her friends.

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