When it comes to keeping warm and comfortable in your home, radiant floor heating installed by Website Domain is difficult to beat. The main difference between radiant floor heating and a traditional heating (forced air) system is how heat is distributed. A forced air system blows warm air through a system of ducts to distribute the heat. This often results in an uneven distribution of heat in a home as warm air rises and accumulates near the ceiling rather than throughout the room. Conversely, radiant floor heating heats a room from the floor up, evenly distributing the heat.
Radiant flooring can be installed as either electric or hydronic (water) systems. Hydronic radiant floor heating is the oldest method and the most widely used. It consists of hot water boiler or heater, pumps, manifolds, pex tubing, hypocrite or wood panels, and a thermostat. Due to the complexity of the hydronic system installation is required by professionals. Electric radiant heat or line voltage system is ideal for smaller areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and sun rooms. The system consists of heating cables and a thermostat. Electric radiant heating systems are less expensive than hydronic systems.
BENEFITS FOR RADIANT FLOOR HEATING:
1. Saves on heating costs. Many home owners tend to be more comfortable with a lower thermostat setting when using radiant heating, as opposed to the forced air heating method.
2. Higher energy efficiency as it uses water’s natural heat retention properties.
3. Works with any type flooring including carpet, wood, tile, concrete, slate and vinyl.
4. Good for people with allergies as it does not use ductwork to blow air through dirty or dusty vents.
5. The heating systems are virtually maintenance free, and the heating elements are backed by a 25-year guarantee.
LIMITATIONS FOR RADIANT FLOOR HEATING:
1. Radiant floor systems are two to three times more expensive than traditional air forced heating.
2. Easiest to install in new construction.
3. Can be difficult to repair.
4. Works best with uncarpeted slab floors. Carpet is an insulator and can inhibit or slow the heat entering the room.
5. Requires professional installation and many contractors are not familiar with the installation process.
The long-term benefits of radiant flooring outweigh the LIMITATIONS FOR RADIANT FLOORING HEATING as the initial costs are recouped within a few years. Retrofitting homes is easier with newer products designed specifically for remodels. It is an investment in home equity and also a desirable attribute if you plan to sell your home.
For more updates, follow us on Facebook.
