Abstract: A plate-shaped heating element, in particular for floor heating, consists of two plates of synthetic material defining a hollow space. Spacing elements are provided between the plates in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the plates, the spacing elements uniting the two plates. The spacing elements are arranged so as to form a first row along a first straight line, said first straight line being an extension of the axis of the joining element. All other spacing elements form further rows, said rows being provided along straight lines which again are provided parallel to the first straight line.