LOW CARBON BUILDINGS


Radiant solutions for a changing heating landscape


Louise Randall, business development manager at Zehnder Group UK discussed the benefits of radiant ceiling panels and radiators in a changing heating landscape


A


s the drive to Net Zero gathers pace, every part of the built environment, commercial, industrial and domestic, is under pressure to


cut emissions and improve heating efficiency. With the latest Building Regulations (Approved Document Part L), the heating design landscape continues to evolve. Lower water temperature systems and the rise of heat pumps are encouraging a shift away from traditional gas boilers towards solutions that reduce energy consumption while meeting regulatory standards across both commercial and domestic projects.


Commercial and industrial heating: The case for radiant


ceiling panels Across the UK, heating accounts for nearly half of the total energy consumption in commercial buildings, and with Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) driving the upgrade of low-rated properties, improving heating performance is now a key focus for landlords, developers and facilities managers. In large commercial and industrial spaces, heating must balance energy efficiency, comfort and practicality. While traditional wall- or floor-mounted radiators remain an excellent option in many cases, radiant ceiling panels offer a highly effective alternative for high-volume environments such as offices, warehouses, classrooms, gym halls and sports centres. Installed discreetly on the ceiling, or incorporated as a visible design feature, these panels deliver heat directly to people and surfaces below, providing even warmth without relying on convection. Their ceiling placement saves valuable wall and floor space and keeps them safely out of reach, making them ideal for environments such as schools, healthcare settings or assisted-living facilities. They can also be finished in antimicrobial paint for hygiene-critical areas and simplify maintenance in spaces that require frequent cleaning. Radiant panels work by emitting infrared


heat, which warms people and objects directly, similar to the effect of sunlight. This avoids the inefficiencies of heating large air volumes, and as well as stratification in tall buildings. For instance, maintaining 18°C at ground level with a convective system may require much higher temperatures at roof height. With radiant heating, the same comfort level can often be achieved at an ambient air temperature around 2–3°C lower, improving comfort and saving energy. Systems such as Zehnder Alumline and ZFP


panels respond quickly to temperature changes and 20 February 2026


can use up to 40% less energy than conventional air- based systems*. Their can be seamlessly integrated into a variety of ceiling types, from traditional grid ceilings to exposed-service designs, while installation is simplified by lightweight construction and minimal hydraulic connections. Bespoke options are also available on request, offering flexibility for unique architectural or functional requirements. In addition to heating, radiant panels can also


support passive cooling when connected to reversible heat pumps. Operating with chilled water (typically 15-18°C) and low-temperature heating water (around 35-45°C), they help maintain comfortable indoor conditions throughout the year. While cooling capacity is limited by dew point, the use of dew point sensors ensures safe and efficient operation. Radiant panels can therefore deliver both heating and cooling, maintaining comfort and improving energy performance when used with constant flow and weather compensation. For consultants and installers, radiant ceiling panels provide an adaptable, low-maintenance, and highly efficient solution for both new builds and retrofit projects, a genuine “fit and forget” approach to comfort and energy control in commercial buildings.


Domestic heating: radiators, finishes and the move to electric


In domestic buildings, Approved Document Part L continues to influence the move towards low water temperature systems, typically around 55°C for new builds or renovations involving new pipework. This transition supports the growing adoption of heat pumps and hybrid systems. While lower flow temperatures can reduce heat output, improved insulation and airtightness in modern homes ensure consistent comfort and efficiency. Across Europe, low-temperature systems have long been the standard, and most modern radiators are now optimised to perform exceptionally well


under these conditions. A common misconception is that heat pumps can only work with underfloor heating. In reality, radiators remain a viable and effective option, and many homes now successfully combine both systems (for example, radiators upstairs and underfloor heating on the ground floor). Today’s radiators combine efficiency, aesthetics and smart integration. Finishes and style play an increasingly important role, with manufacturers offering more than 2,000 colour options and advanced PVD coatings. This thin-film process deposits metal or ceramic layers for exceptional durability, ensuring a hardwearing surface resistant to tarnishing, chipping and corrosion. This attention to detail also extends to colour- matched valves, which allow installers to achieve a coordinated and professional finish without compromising functionality. Electric radiators and towel rails are also gaining popularity, offering precise, independent control for seasonal or intermittent use, perfect for bathrooms, guest rooms and extensions. One example is the Zehnder Tetris towel radiator


from the Studio Collection, designed by King & Miranda and winner of a Red Dot Design Award. By embracing modern radiator materials,


advanced finishes and efficient electric options, installers can meet Part L requirements while delivering comfort, reliability and design appeal for the homeowner.


A bright future for modern heating


Approved Document Part L and broader Net Zero targets are reshaping how we heat our buildings. From radiant ceiling panels in commercial and public spaces to high-performance radiators and electric systems in homes, the direction of travel is clear: lower water temperatures, higher efficiency and integrated comfort solutions. For consultants, specifiers and installers, these technologies represent an opportunity to design heating systems that meet regulations, enhance building performance, and deliver lasting comfort and wellbeing for occupants, across every type of building.


www.heatingandventilating.net


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