Commercial
In spaces with large, undivided floor areas, Viega Radiant can provide even, comfortable heat to persons
working on or near the floor. For example, garage mechanics, students in classrooms, and workers in assembly
plants all benefit from the lower heat stratification inherent in a Viega Radiant system.
As with residential Viega Radiant systems, commercial systems operate more effectively and efficiently with good
structural insulation. Although some buildings such as vehicle maintenance or service garages suffer from high
infiltration due to opening large overhead doors, Viega Radiant can still provide a higher degree of employee
comfort by keeping the floors warm. Some supplemental heating may be necessary if overhead doors must
remain open for lengthy periods.
Many commercial occupied areas, unlike those in residential, may experience rapid temperature changes due to
heat loss or heat gain. While concerns with heat loss are generally obvious, there should also be an awareness
of heat gain. Temperature increase from internal gains (heat generated by machinery, lighting fixtures, or even
many human bodies) may occur too quickly for an Viega Radiant system to respond. Spaces that experience
wide swings in occupancy level (conference rooms, ballrooms, churches) can pose problems for an Viega
Radiant system if the warmed thermal mass continues to give off heat when it is not needed. Special system
controls that anticipate significant changes due to internal gain may be required.
Commercial BTU/square foot requirements are generally higher than for residential. Regular opening of outside
doors (walk-through or overhead) may require more BTU's per square foot than a radiant floor system can
provide without the danger of heating the floor to an uncomfortable temperature to stand or lie on. Localized
supplemental heat may be required near doors to offset the heat loss.
A properly designed commercial system takes into account these factors and others to insure that the floor
heating system provides the desired level of comfort and efficiency.
Systecore Inc.
5975 Dixie Hwy
Saginaw, Michigan 48601
1(989) 746-0700