Radiant heat is the energy that a stove emits into its surroundings in the form of infrared radiation. Unlike heat that rises directly upward and heats the cooking pot, this heat spreads in all directions and heats people and objects near the stove. The amount of heat emitted depends on the design and material of the burner and the cooktop’s entire body. Some models, particularly those with a larger heating surface or special attachments, are designed to produce more radiant heat and can thus also serve as a small space heater for warmth in cold weather.