Why Are Electric Radiant Cove Heaters Becoming Popular Again?
Why Are Electric Radiant Cove Heaters Becoming Popular Again?
It all started in the 1960's
Electric radiant cove heaters have a history that dates back to a 1965 patent by Markel Electric Products, who was later purchased by TPI Corporation. In the 1980’s, Berko’s CH Series cove heaters were introduced, a brand that was acquired by Marley, who expanded the product line to their Qmark brand. These innovative heaters quickly gained traction for their unique design and heating performance. The heaters were proven as a reliable choice for both residential and light commercial spaces. King Electric introduced their KCV series cove heaters not long after and today’s version is their alCove series which are very high quality and boast an innovative mounting system that is simple enough for one-person to install.
What Makes Cove Heaters Unique?
Cove heaters stand out from other electric heating options because of their mounting position and dual heating method:
- High Wall / Near-Ceiling Installation: Unlike baseboard heaters, cove heaters are mounted high on walls, close to the ceiling. This positioning not only frees up valuable wall and floor space but also eliminates the frustrating furniture placement challenges common with baseboard heaters.
- Radiant + Convection Heat: Cove heaters provide the best of both worlds:
• Radiant heat warms surfaces and people directly, creating an immediate sense of comfort.
• Convection heat from the long, low-watt density element gently circulates warm air, ensuring even temperature distribution throughout the room.
This combination creates a uniform warmth that feels natural and consistent, without the hot-and-cold zones common in other heating systems.
- Practical Benefits:
• Easy to install
• Available in multiple lengths, voltages, and wattages
• Operates quietly, with no moving parts
• Durable and low-maintenance
Why Cove Heaters Are Making a Comeback
The reasons for the original popularity of cove heaters are all still valid today and there is also a renewed interest coming from a new need: supporting modern heating systems, especially heat pumps.
The Heat Pump Challenge
Air source heat pumps (whether ductless mini-splits or packaged ducted systems) are highly efficient at transferring heat from the outside air into a home. However, they struggle in extremely cold weather, particularly when outdoor temperatures drop below 20-30°F. In these conditions, a home can feel underheated just when warmth is needed most.
The Perfect Supplemental Solution
Cove heaters have emerged as an ideal supplemental heating source for homes using heat pumps:
· Installed high on the wall, they utilize previously unused space.
· Provide reliable, direct warmth during the coldest days.
· Kick in quickly, ensuring comfort without overtaxing the primary heating system.
This pairing allows homeowners to enjoy the energy efficiency of heat pumps most of the year while having the reassurance of dependable radiant heating when temperatures plunge.
The Future of Cove Heating
As homeowners and businesses continue to look for cost-effective, space-saving, and reliable heating solutions, cove heaters are once again stepping into the spotlight. Their ability to blend classic functionality with modern heating needs makes them a practical choice for today’s energy-conscious world.




