The Comfort and Joy of Radiant Floor Heating

Posted on December 13, 2007 by Joyce Benson   Add a Comment |
Tag(s): Energy

Ahh, on a cold winter’s day, there’s nothing like being in a warm, comfortable room where the heating system is quiet and doesn’t spew allergens into the space. That’s the beauty of radiant flooring heating which rises up from underneath the floor to heat everything in the space efficiently and evenly. Each room is also individually controlled for maximum effectiveness.

There are two types: hot water systems and electric systems. “Hot water, or hydronic, systems, are the most popular and most cost-effective way to heat an entire house”, according to This Old House. Even though it costs more to install, especially retrofitting into an existing house, the system is about 30% more efficient than forced-air heating, and much more comfortable. It is comprised of non-corroding, flexible tubes under the finished floor (hardwood, tile or concrete) that circulates water which radiates heat into a room. Hiring a heating contractor for installation is the best route.

Electric radiant heating works well for retrofitting into just a room or two. It works through a series of wires encased in a resistant covering underneath the floor. For easier installation, electric radiant mats can be found on page 4 of this article at ThisOldHouse.com.

Comments