Radiant Floor Heating
In a world where “going green” is not only a trend, but a necessity, consumers are constantly looking for ways to save money and energy with new products for the home. One type of product that is gaining steam in the energy world is radiant floor heating. Radiant heat is defined as the infra-red energy given off by a hot object that is absorbed by another. In other words, one source provides heat that is contained by another source. radiant floor heating works the same way, with a heat source being installed in the floor to preserve energy and provide luxury to a room. Underfloor radiant heat is not a new technology. Quite the opposite, it actually dates back as far as the Roman Empire, when it was very common. Though it has come a long way, the general idea remains the same.
There are three major types of radiant floor heating: Electric, air heated and hydronic. Electrically heated floors use an electrical charge to heat the floors through various mats and electrical cables built into the floor. Though this is effective, electricity is a costly expense. Another option is using air heated floors. This is the least popular radiant heating system because air is not very conducive to holding heat. The most common type of radiant floor is the hydronic system. It pumps heated water throughout the floors in a series of valves and tubes to create heat with minimal energy costs. As an added bonus, the water can be used in a reverse method to cool the floors by taking heat out of the room. All of these forms of radiant floor heating require professional installment beneath the finished floor surface, usually being installed during the building process.
The benefits of radiant floor heating is highly beneficial because heat is not lost through ducts, keeping from a loss of energy and money. Many people who suffer from allergies proclaim the advantages of radiant floor heat because a lack of air circulation often alleviates their ailments. Also, the hydronic system is easy on the electricity bill, allowing homeowners to not only save money, but live “greener” lives as well.