The Challenges of Retail Heating
The temperature inside a retail shop or showroom is a significant factor that adds to the overall experience of both customers and staff. If your retail heating system isn’t effective it could lead to a host of challenges including:
Reduced customer footfall
Customers are likely to cut their visit short if a store is too hot or cold. Maintaining a comfortable temperature encourages longer browsing and increases the chance of making a sale.
Energy waste
Adding to the already high costs of large retail spaces, inefficient and/or poorly designed heating systems can lead to excessive utility bills during periods of cold weather.
Staff discomfort
Cold shop floors and showrooms can result in a lack of motivation, lower productivity, and even health and safety risks.
Uneven temperatures
It can be difficult to heat large open spaces with high ceilings or shops with mezzanine floors. In these environments, traditional heating systems won’t be able to distribute warmth effectively.
Why do You need a Bespoke Retail Heating Solution?
Investing in a bespoke retail heating system allows businesses to access various long-term benefits. This includes:
Eliminate drafts from doors.
Lower operating costs.
Increased productivity.
Quality Manufacturing.
Improved eco-friendliness.
Fewer maintenance issues.
Fully compliant systems.
Retail Heating Case Studies
Warm Air Heating for Retail Spaces
For large retail spaces and showrooms, warm air heating systems can be an ideal choice. These solutions work by heating the air within a commercial building, rather than using ground-level radiators as heat sources that are connected to a traditional central heating system.
Flexible Installation:
Wall or ceiling-mounted options to avoid floor obstructions.
Enhanced Efficiency:
Fully modulating heat output to match demand, saving energy and operating costs, and ensuring consistent comfort.
Year-Round Comfort:
Includes Summer Ventilation Mode for continuous air circulation and comfort during warm days.
Hybrid Heater & Heat Pumps
Experience the perfect blend of efficiency and performance with customised Hybrid Heater and Heat Pump systems. Tailored to your retail space’s needs, they use advanced technology and smart controls to deliver consistent warmth, lower costs, and enhance workplace safety.
100% Electric or Gas Booster:
Available as a fully electric model or with a gas booster for extra heating power when needed.
Energy Efficient:
Operates in heat pump mode around 70% of the time for maximum efficiency. Delivering up to 5 kW of heat output for every 1 kW of energy consumed.
Smart controller:
Smart controller technology optimises energy use, adjusting output to maintain comfort while reducing running costs.
Year-Round Comfort:
Includes Summer Ventilation Mode for continuous air circulation and comfort during warm days.
Electric Air Heaters
The Winterwarm EH Electric Warm Air Heater is an ideal choice for gas-free sites or those using renewable energy. Compact, efficient and easy to install, it delivers fast, even heat to retail spaces. With smart airflow control, centralised thermostat options and low maintenance. Another great option for your new retail heating system.
100% Electric:
Efficient, gas-free solution ideal for commercial and industrial factory spaces.
Multiple Output Options:
Available from 5 kW to 60 kW to suit different heating needs.
Flexible Installation:
Can be wall-mounted or suspended, with optional brackets to angle airflow.
Centralised Management:
Control up to eight units via one MultiTherm thermostat, with BMS compatibility available.
Radiant Heating systems for Retail
Radiant heating is ideal for spot-heating specific zones, like workstations or loading bays, in large, open spaces, and also in retail spaces. It delivers fast, efficient warmth where it’s needed and retains heat long after shutoff to reduce energy use. Choose radiant heating if:
No air circulation:
Warms directly without air movement, making it ideal for dusty or sensitive environments.
Silent operation:
Creates a quieter, more comfortable environment for staff and customers.
Space-saving installation:
Great for buildings with high ceilings or limited floor space.
Targeted & efficient:
Warms people and objects, not the air, making it highly energy efficient.
Partnering for a Sustainable Future
Sustainability is no longer a nice-to-have; it’s a priority for forward-thinking businesses. At OKEL, we’re committed to supporting our customers in achieving their environmental and energy-efficiency goals through innovative, future-ready solutions.
Every bespoke system we design is built with energy efficiency at its core. This not only helps lower your operational costs but also supports your wider sustainability ambitions, whether you’re working toward green certifications, carbon reduction targets, or simply looking to demonstrate your environmental responsibility.
With OKEL as your partner, you gain more than a high-performance system; you take a meaningful step toward a more sustainable future for your business and the communities you serve.
Lower Energy Costs
Reduced Emissions
Sustainability Future
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which HVAC system is used in commercial buildings?
Our range of commercial heating solutions includes a variety of systems and models that have been tested for reliability and heating efficiency and with the comfort of the shopper in front of mind.
- Why choose OKEL for retail heating?
Our range of commercial heating solutions includes a variety of systems and models that have been tested for reliability and heating efficiency, and with the comfort of the shopper in mind.
- How long does it take to install a retail heating system?
Any changes to a retail shop’s infrastructure must be made as quickly as possible to minimise downtime. The time to install a new commercial heating system will vary depending on the nature of the building and complexity of the system, as well as the quality of the installers.
- What causes retail spaces to lose heat?
There are often multiple factors that cause commercial buildings like shops and showrooms to lose heat. The main sources of heat loss often include:
– Poor insulation
– Badly fitted windows and doors
– Open space with high ceilings
– Ineffective heating system
– Poor ventilation and air flow- What's the most efficient way to heat commercial buildings?
There are several options to achieve efficient heating within commercial buildings. Commercial boiler systems, warm air units, destratification fans, and air conditioning can all be effective. The most efficient option will depend on various factors, such as the size of the space, how it’s used, and specific structural features.
- Who should I get to install retail heating units?
Depending on the fuel source of your chosen system, you will need either a commercial electrical or a gas safe approved engineer. This will ensure your solution complies with all safety regulations while being able to operate at maximum efficiency. Our teams of engineers have completed installations for popular retail and hospitality venues, so they know exactly what’s involved.