Are you looking to heat your home efficiently and ecologically? The solar radiator for homes is an option to seriously consider. With technologies advancing super fast, we are seeing more and more innovative solutions for capturing solar energy and transforming it into heat. Whether you are building or renovating, understanding how these systems work and what the best models available in 2025 are can really make a difference to your comfort and your wallet. We will explore the different options together to help you make the right choice.
Key Points to Remember about solar heater for house
- Active solar heating uses sensors to transfer heat from the sun into your home.
- Passive solar heating, on the other hand, relies on the design of your building to naturally capture and distribute heat.
- Solar systems can also be used for air conditioning, using the sun’s energy to cool your interior.
- Solar thermal heating is great for hot water and can even help heat your home via underfloor heating.
- For a home solar radiator, recent models are often programmable and connected, which helps to better manage energy and save money.
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Toggle1. Active solar heating
Active solar heating, unlike passive heating, uses mechanical components to capture and distribute heat from the sun. It’s a bit like having a heating system that actively works for you.
It should be noted that active solar heating uses solar thermal collectors to capture heat from the sun and transfer it to the building’s heating system.
Here are some key elements to consider:
- Solar thermal collectors: They absorb solar energy and convert it into heat.
- Heat transfer fluid: This fluid circulates in the collectors, recovering heat.
- Heat exchanger: It transfers heat from the heat transfer fluid to another fluid or air, which is then distributed throughout the building.
Active solar heating can be used to heat domestic hot water, air, or both. It requires professional design and installation to ensure optimal efficiency. It is important to properly size your domestic heating system to avoid energy waste.
Basically, active solar heating is a bit more technical than passive, but it can be super efficient if done well. You can even combine it with other systems for optimal heating. For example, you can use an aerothermal heat pump as a supplement for days when the sun isn’t out. It’s a solution that can really help reduce your energy bill and carbon footprint. Unfortunately, it seems there’s a database issue preventing access to some additional information, but the essentials are there.
2. Passive solar heating
Passive solar heating is an ingenious approach to heating your home using the sun, but without complex mechanical systems. The idea is to design the building itself to capture, store, and distribute solar heat naturally. It’s a bit like turning your home into a giant solar collector.
The fundamental principle is to optimise the orientation, insulation, and building materials to maximise solar gains in winter and minimise overheating in summer.
Here are some key elements of passive solar heating:
- Orientation: Large glazed surfaces are generally south-facing to capture maximum sun in winter.
- Insulation: Good insulation is crucial for retaining captured heat and reducing heat loss.
- Thermal mass: Materials with high thermal mass, such as concrete or stone, store heat during the day and release it slowly at night.
Passive solar heating is particularly effective in sunny regions, but it can also be used in colder climates with appropriate design. It is important to note that passive solar heating generally does not provide 100% of a home’s heating needs, but it can significantly reduce energy consumption and heating costs. A well-designed passive house can meet 50-60% of its heating needs through passive solar gains.
Speaking of savings, did you know that by optimising architecture to exploit solar radiation, you can reduce lighting needs and improve the energy efficiency of buildings? This is called passive solar energy.
3. Solar heating and cooling systems
Solar energy represents a renewable and abundant resource. Harnessing this energy allows buildings to be heated and cooled without relying on fossil fuels. Solar systems can be active, using sensors and pumps to transfer heat, or passive, relying on the building’s design and materials for natural heat circulation. Solar air conditioning systems use solar energy to power absorption chillers or desiccant cooling systems, offering efficient and environmentally friendly air conditioning.
There are several types of systems, each with its advantages and disadvantages. The choice will depend on your specific needs, your budget, and the configuration of your home.
It is important to carefully assess your needs and call on a qualified professional to advise you on the most suitable system for your situation. Correct installation is essential to guarantee the efficiency and durability of your solar system.
Here are some things to consider:
- The climate of your region
- The size of your home
- Your budget
- Your heating and cooling needs
The integration of these systems helps to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings. In renovation, it is possible to opt for hybrid solutions, combining, for example, a heat pump with solar thermal collectors. These solutions make it possible to optimise energy performance and reduce operating costs. It is important to note that solar thermal heating is particularly effective in passive or bioclimatic houses, requiring good storage to compensate for intermittency.
In new construction, the Environmental Regulation 2020 (RE2020) imposes strict criteria for CO₂ emissions and energy consumption. Solar heating and cooling systems can help achieve these objectives. For example, a solar water heater or a combined solar system can cover part of the hot water needs. In addition, the use of an aerothermal heat pump can be an effective solution for heating and cooling, reducing dependence on fossil fuels. It is also possible to opt for a residential air conditioning system to maintain optimal thermal comfort at home.
4. Solar thermal heating
Solar thermal heating uses the sun’s energy to produce heat, which can be used to heat water or air in a home. It is an ecological and economical solution to reduce your dependence on fossil fuels. It is important to note that the efficiency of the system depends on the sunshine in your region and the size of your installation.
There are mainly two types of solar thermal heating systems:
- Active systems, which use pumps and fans to circulate heat.
- Passive systems, which use the building’s design to capture and distribute heat.
Solar thermal heating is an excellent option for reducing your carbon footprint and energy bills. However, it is important to properly size your installation and choose a system adapted to your needs.
Here are some elements to consider when choosing a solar thermal heating system:
- The climate of your region.
- The size of your house.
- Your budget.
It is also important to call on a qualified professional for the installation of your system. Correct installation will guarantee optimal performance and a long lifespan for your system. Do not hesitate to consult a qualified professional to assess your specific needs and advise you on the best solution for your home.
The efficiency of solar thermal collectors varies depending on the type of collector and climatic conditions. In general, flat plate collectors have lower efficiency than evacuated tube collectors.
Type of collector | Efficiency | Applications | Estimated investment |
---|---|---|---|
Flat plate collectors | 40 to 60 % | DHW + heating boost | €5,000 to €8,000 |
Evacuated tubes | 60 to 75 % | DHW + more efficient heating in winter | €7,000 to €12,000 |
Solar thermal heating is a sustainable and economical solution for heating your home. It is important to do your research and call on a professional for a successful installation. To learn more about solar heating systems, do not hesitate to consult specialised resources.
5. Solar water heater
The solar water heater, a proven solution for reducing your energy bill and carbon footprint, continues to evolve in 2025. There are several types of systems, each with its advantages and disadvantages. The choice will depend on your hot water needs, your budget, and the configuration of your home.
A solar water heater uses solar thermal collectors to capture the sun’s energy and heat water. This hot water can then be used for sanitary needs (shower, kitchen) or to supply a heating system. It is a particularly interesting solution in sunny regions, but it can also be used in less favoured regions, with a backup system for days of low sunshine.
It is important to note that the solar thermal market is in decline in France, but this does not call into question the interest of this technology, especially if you benefit from financial aid for its installation.
The installation of a solar water heater is a long-term investment that can allow you to make significant savings on your energy bill. It is important to properly size your installation according to your needs and to choose a qualified installer to guarantee its proper functioning.
Here are some points to consider before you start:
- The type of solar collectors: There are flat plate collectors and evacuated tube collectors. Evacuated tube collectors are more efficient, especially in winter, but they are also more expensive.
- The size of the storage tank: It must be adapted to your hot water needs. A tank that is too small will not allow you to store enough hot water for days of low sunshine, while a tank that is too large will result in unnecessary heat loss.
- The backup system: It is essential for days of low sunshine. It can be an electric resistance, a gas boiler, or another heating system.
Don’t forget to inquire about the financial aid available for the installation of a solar water heater. These aids can significantly reduce the cost of your installation and make this solution even more attractive.
6. Mobile electric radiator
The mobile electric radiator is a very practical auxiliary heating solution. It allows you to quickly heat a room without having to increase the heating throughout the house. This is particularly useful for little-used rooms or for people who are more sensitive to the cold.
A mobile electric radiator is a portable heating appliance designed to efficiently heat a room. There are different types of mobile electric radiators, each with its advantages and disadvantages. It is therefore important to choose your radiator carefully according to your needs.
Here are some reasons why you might need a mobile electric radiator:
- Heat a specific room without increasing the temperature of the entire house.
- Save on heating costs by targeting areas needing extra heat.
- Create a comfortable workspace or relaxation area in winter.
Mobile electric radiators are generally equipped with safety devices to prevent accidents. These devices may include overheating protection, an automatic shut-off function if the radiator tips over, and cooled outer casings to prevent burns in case of contact.
There are several types of mobile electric radiators, each with its advantages and disadvantages:
- Fan heaters: They heat up quickly, but can be noisy and consume a lot of energy.
- Oil-filled radiators: They heat up slowly, but diffuse a gentle and even heat. They are also quieter than fan heaters.
- Radiant heaters: They directly heat objects and people, allowing you to feel the heat quickly. They are ideal for small rooms.
When choosing a mobile electric radiator, it is important to consider several criteria, such as power, the size of the room to be heated, noise level, and energy consumption. It is also important to check that the radiator is equipped with safety devices.
If you are looking for an electric auxiliary heater, the mobile electric radiator can be an excellent option. It is easy to use, inexpensive, and can help you save on your heating bills. The DeLonghi TRRS0920 heats up quickly and efficiently. For industrial environments, the TROTEC TDS 50 R is a robust and powerful choice.
7. Electric radiator
Electric radiators remain a popular option for domestic heating, especially in homes without a central heating system. They are easy to install and use, but it is important to choose the right model to optimise comfort and control energy consumption. In 2025, the market offers a variety of electric radiators, each with its advantages and disadvantages. It is therefore essential to be well informed before making your choice.
However, it is important to choose your equipment carefully to enjoy good thermal comfort without seeing your electricity bill skyrocket.
The choice of an electric radiator must be made according to the size of the room, the insulation of the dwelling, and your heating needs. It is also important to consider the purchase cost and the energy consumption of the radiator.
Here are some types of electric radiators available on the market:
- Convectors
- Radiant heaters
- Inertia radiators
- Storage heaters
The electric radiator is a simple and effective heating solution, but it is important to choose the right model to optimise your comfort and control your energy consumption.
There are aids available for the installation of your electric radiators. Do not hesitate to inquire to benefit from economical, efficient, and comfortable heating.
8. Radiant heater
The radiant heater, also called a radiant panel or radiant radiator, represents an improvement in energy efficiency compared to traditional convectors. Instead of heating the ambient air, it uses a radiant plate to emit heat in the form of infrared radiation. This heat is directly absorbed by people and objects in the room, providing a faster and more pleasant sensation of warmth.
The main advantage of this type of radiator is its ability to quickly heat a room. However, it is important to note that the heat disappears as soon as the radiator is turned off, as it does not accumulate heat like inertia radiators.
Radiant heaters are particularly suitable for rooms where quick and localised heating is necessary, such as bathrooms or guest rooms. They are also more efficient in well-insulated spaces, as they do not rely on air circulation to diffuse heat.
Here are some advantages and disadvantages of radiant heaters:
- Very fast temperature rise.
- Good energy efficiency.
- Targeted and comfortable heat.
- Does not heat the ambient air, which can be a disadvantage in large rooms.
- Heat disappears quickly after the radiator is turned off.
In 2025, radiant heater models are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with programming and remote control options to optimise their use. For an efficient heating solution, the radiant heater can be an excellent choice.
9. Dry inertia radiator
The dry inertia radiator is a heating solution that has gained popularity thanks to its ability to offer gentle and constant heat. Unlike conventional convectors, it accumulates heat in a solid material, then gradually diffuses it into the room. This type of radiator is often perceived as a more economical and comfortable option.
The principle is simple: an electric resistance heats a solid heating core, which can be made of cast iron, ceramic, lava stone, or other refractory material. Once hot, this core continues to diffuse heat even after the resistance is turned off, which helps maintain a stable temperature for longer. It’s a bit like having an economical electric heater that works for you, even when it’s not actively consuming electricity.
Here are some advantages and disadvantages to consider:
- Gentle and even heat
- Good thermal inertia (heat retention)
- Potentially reduced consumption compared to convectors
- Slower temperature rise
- Generally higher price
Dry inertia offers more stable and pleasant heat, but you should be aware that the radiator will take longer to heat the room initially. This is a compromise to consider depending on your needs and budget.
There are also double-core radiator models, which combine a radiant panel and a dry inertia core. These models offer a rapid temperature rise while maintaining good inertia, but they are generally more expensive. If you are looking for a heating solution that reacts quickly while being comfortable, this is an option to explore.
In summary, the dry inertia radiator is a good choice for those seeking lasting thermal comfort and controlled energy consumption. It is particularly suitable for living rooms where a lot of time is spent, such as the living room or bedrooms. Don’t forget to compare the different models and materials to find the one that best suits your needs and budget. Also, consider the installation, a well-installed electric radiator is a radiator that lasts!
10. Connected radiator
Connected radiators represent a significant advance in domestic heating. They offer optimised temperature management and a potential reduction in energy consumption. More and more thermostats are connected, allowing heating to be adjusted via a smartphone, tablet or computer application, to benefit from true connected radiators.
These devices are equipped with intelligent features that allow remote control of heating and adaptation to the specific needs of each user.
Here are some key advantages of connected radiators:
- Remote control: Adjust your home’s temperature from anywhere using a mobile app.
- Personalised programming: Define heating time slots according to your schedule to avoid unnecessarily heating unoccupied rooms.
- Presence detection: Some models can detect a person’s presence in the room and automatically adjust the temperature.
- Consumption monitoring: View your energy consumption in real time and identify sources of waste.
The integration of a thermostat optimises energy consumption, but its effectiveness in large spaces may be lower than advertised. It is therefore important to carefully assess your needs before making your choice.
The trick to optimising your radiator’s heating and your heating savings is to choose a connected radiator or equip your appliance with a smart thermostatic head. The connectivity of these control tools offers energy-saving features, such as programming, presence and open window detection, or remote control from a mobile application. The tado0 V3+ pack includes a connected thermostat and an Internet bridge, controllable remotely via smartphone (iOS, Android) or tablet.
In conclusion, connected radiators offer a modern and efficient solution for managing your home’s heating. They allow you to save energy while improving thermal comfort. Do not hesitate to compare the different models available on the market to find the one that best suits your needs and budget. Energy efficiency and inertia make it the most economical radiator in the long term. For a successful installation, it is essential to carry out a thermal study before installation to assess your needs.
Want to make your home smarter and save on heating? Discover how a connected radiator can change your daily life. To learn more and find the perfect model for you, visit our site now!
In summary
The solar radiator is a heating solution with a future. We have seen that the models for 2025 are really powerful. Choosing the right one depends on many things: the size of your house, where you live, and of course, your budget. But one thing is certain, investing in solar is good for the planet and for your wallet. Seriously consider it for your next heating installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is active solar heating and how does it work?
Active solar heating uses special panels to capture heat from the sun and distribute it throughout the house. It’s like a system that “catches” the sun’s rays to heat the water or air in your home.
How is passive solar heating different?
Passive solar heating is when the house is built intelligently to retain the sun’s heat without the need for machinery. For example, large south-facing windows can let in light and heat, and special materials can store this heat.
How can solar systems both heat and cool?
These systems use the sun’s energy to heat in winter and even to cool in summer. For example, they can operate devices that absorb heat to create cold. It’s an ecological way to manage the temperature in your home all year round.
What is solar thermal heating used for?
Solar thermal heating captures heat from the sun to heat water. This hot water can be used for showering, washing dishes, or even for heating the house via radiators or underfloor heating. It’s a great solution for having hot water without spending a lot of energy.
What is a solar water heater?
A solar water heater is a device that uses the sun’s energy to heat the water you use every day. It consists of collectors on the roof that absorb heat from the sun and transfer it to the water stored in a tank. It is a very economical and ecological way to produce hot water.
What is a mobile electric radiator?
A mobile electric radiator is a heating appliance that you can easily move from one room to another. It is practical for heating a specific room without having to turn on the central heating for the whole house. There are several types, such as fan heaters or oil-filled radiators.
How does an electric radiator work?
An electric radiator is a device that converts electricity into heat to warm a room. There are many models, from the simplest (like convectors) to the most efficient (like inertia radiators), which diffuse heat in different ways.
What is a radiant heater?
A radiant heater, also called a radiant panel, heats by emitting infrared rays, much like the sun. These rays directly heat people and objects in the room, which gives a pleasant and quick sensation of warmth.