Long gone are the days of relying on wood stoves to provide heat and warmth to our homes during the colder months of the year. Now there is a large variety of different heating systems that one can choose for their home. While many rely on furnaces to provide heat, a less common yet highly beneficial option is in-floor heating.
Read on to learn about this unique heating solution and how it can benefit you and your home.
What is In-Floor Heating?
Also known as radiant heating, in-floor heating systems supply heat directly through the floor (as their name implies). This idea dates back as far as ancient Roman times. Today, heat is provided either through electric heating coils or water-heated tubing connected to a boiler.
The Benefits of In-Floor Heating
Lower Utility Bills
In-floor heating systems are approximately 30% more efficient than forced air heating systems. Heat is most easily lost through the air, leaking out through inadequately seal windows, doors, or ducts. This is not an issue with in-floor heating, as the system is contained under the floor and heat radiates throughout the space as opposed to being blown through the air. As such, installing an in-floor heating system can help lower your home’s heating bill.
Ductless System
Heating systems that rely on duct-work seem commonplace even in modern homes. The cost of maintaining, cleaning, and repairing such systems can add up, costing as much as $300 a year to maintain.
As mentioned above, ducts are prone to heat loss via leaks. With blowing air, duct systems also blow dust an allergens throughout the home. Even if you are diligent in keeping your filters clean and clear, a certain level of dirt and dust will still be blown throughout your home. In-floor heating systems provide better indoor air quality by eliminating the need to blow unclean air throughout your home.
Visually Pleasing
In-floor heating systems are hidden, with no visible components in your home. That’s right, no exposed ducts, vents, or registers around your walls, floors, or ceilings.
While this may not seem like the greatest benefit, there’s no doubt that eliminating the need for ducts certainly helps to enhance the aesthetic of a home.
Uniform Heat Distribution
In-floor heating does not have a single focus point where heat comes from. Instead, the system is distributed evenly throughout a space. This allows rooms to be heated gradually, starting from the floor. This ensures an even heat distribution throughout the room. Heat distribution can also be customized throughout the house, with every room being zoned differently to meet your unique needs.
Installing In-Floor Heating
In-floor heating systems can be installed on concrete slabs (such as what’s found in basements) or on above-grade floors. The process involves laying down a mat containing a thin, continuous cable, or heating element, woven into it. Flooring is then installed on top of the mat.
It’s best to install in-floor heating in new builds or during a home renovation. While it can be installed underneath existing flooring, it’s important to note that the entire floor will need to be pulled up and reinstalled.
In order to ensure your in-floor heating system is installed correctly, it’s always recommended to work with professional technicians who have experience in radiant heating systems.
If you’re ready to make the switch to in-floor heating, of if you have questions about how you can benefit from an in-floor heating system, contact Peak Hydronics. Our experienced team is happy to answer your questions!