Replies

1. 
   Stray_ | Mar 13, 2002 11:38pm | #1

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   Can't tell you about water temp, or Vasco in particular.

   We install a lot of Runtal radiation in dormitories on campus. This is a rather rugged, higher grade sort of thing. It's pricy, but looks and performs great. I think it's overkill for residential. I've seen advertisements for a lower grade residential type product that might be what you're talking about.

   Typical fin tube is hidden behind a thin metal cover, and heats more by convection (ie air going up into the cover, passing the fins, and flowing out up the wall).

   The radiant baseboard stuff IS the heat conductor, and gives you more of a radiant warming along with the air convection.

   The fin tube is cheaper initially. I personally like radiant better. Maybe others can speak to the water temp issue. Or try HeatingHelp.com

1. 
   Wet_Head_Warrior | Mar 16, 2002 06:21pm | #2

   *Runtal also makes this type but I guarantee it is not the same thing stray is putting in.Some are high end, other's are less so. Usually you will run more of a medium temp through these. I believe radiant floor is best, this type is next best, and finned tube convectors are next.Fin tube is usually 10% radiant and 90% convective.I happen to like Buderus,s radiant panels a lot. Check out their web site. Also, Burnham has reintroduced the old type, free standing, cast iron radiators. They, along with the valves are made from the original castings. VERY cool! You can paint them any color you like or leave them like they come (be aware different colors change the efficiency) And the pricing ain't too bad either.