So, you think you know everything there is to know about heating systems? Not so fast. There are plenty of unexpected types and uses of heating systems. Here are some that you might not have thought of.
1. Heated Turf
Several companies specialize in creating heating systems for outdoor sports fields, such as soccer pitches and football playing fields. Heating Solutions International (HSI), a partner of the European Turf Group, recently built four heated turf soccer pitches in Norway that radiate up to 300 kilowatts to enable play on fields that otherwise would be covered in frost or snow.
In the U.S., several football and baseball fields are now underpinned with turf heating systems. The Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Redskins, and New England Patriots are just a few of the NFL teams that have taken advantage of the technology.
And it’s not just to keep the sod from freezing over in colder climates. At Seattle’s Safeco Field, the Seattle Mariners use turf heating to get the grass to feel like spring has arrived early, just in time for the start of baseball season. Even the legendary “frozen tundra” of Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis.,was long ago fitted with a heating system that keeps the turf warm during the chilly winter months.
2. Custom Radiant Heating for Floors
One of the most efficient ways of heating your home comes by way of radiant floor heating systems. While not well known, these in floor heating systems have been around for many years and are recommended by the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) as being able to keep homeowners comfortable at temperatures 6-8°F lower than with convective systems. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, “The systems depend largely on radiant heat transfer -- the delivery of heat directly from the hot surface to the people and objects in the room via infrared radiation.” They can even be used in industrial applications.
3. Infrared Heating
Infrared emitters and modules are often overlooked in the roles they play in a wide variety of industries. These processes cover everything from converting metals, adhesives, plastics, and other materials to browning meats, desserts, chocolates, confections, and more, according to the company.
Learn more about diverse heating systems and applications in our eBook about PTC Heating and its many benefits:
