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radiant floor heating
Radiant Floor Heating
There's something very comforting and soothing
about having a warm rush of heat soften your steps within
your home. Radiant floor heating systems can create that
wonderful experience for you, and also contribute to lower
heating bills.
There are two main types of radiant floor
heating systems; electric and hydronic. Both systems are
embedded into your floor, creating a warm quiet living space.
With each system, heat is spread evenly throughout the house,
without the stacking of heat that occurs with forced-air
heating. This results in reduced heat loss through infiltration
and eventually to lower heating bills. You will be able
to lower the degrees on your thermostat, but feel cozier
than ever. Each system allows you to control the temperature
according to your needs. Most systems use a relay control
operated with standard thermostats.
Electric radiant systems heat your living
space electrically from beneath your flooring. The system
uses the heat preservation of your floor to disperse the
heat. Gradually, the heat rises to the ceiling naturally,
warming up your feet and body first. This creates a warm,
gentle comfort. Electric radiant systems are a lot less
expensive than hydronic heating systems. However, depending
on the installation requirements and project size, the cost
will vary. A professional contractor would be able to help
you decide which system would work best for your conditions
and save you the most money.
Hydronic systems use hot water pushed through
plastic tubes beneath your floor to create the same warm
and gentle feeling that electric systems provide. The temperature
is controlled by regulating the flow of hot water, through
the boiler that heats the water up and the pumps that keep
the water circulating. One advantage to operating a hydronic
floor system is that it offers you flexibility with your
fuel source. You can even change your fuel source to save
money. With electric systems, you will not have to pay for
a boiler, but you cannot switch fuel sources.
Installation for both systems is very easy.
Any type of floor construction can be used and most floor
coverings are compatible as well. Tile is the most efficient
floor covering because it is the most conductive with heat.
You want to select a floor covering that allows your heat
to rise. Other good floor covering conductors include hardwood
floors, carpet and padding, and vinyl. Before making any
final decisions, I recommend speaking to a professional
or reviewing the system installation requirements to be
sure that your floor covering will work efficiently.
Installing a radiant floor heating system
is definitely something that requires much skill and knowledge.
Most local codes require that a licensed contractor be responsible
for such installations. If you are eager to experience the
comfort of warm illumination surrounding your body, all
while saving on your utility bills, then you are ready to
invest in a radiant floor heating system.
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