Radiant heat installation

Many homeowners prefer radiant floor heat because it is more evenly distributed, environmentally friendly and cost effective. Radiant heat installation can consist of electric or hydronic systems. The electric systems are generally easier to install while the hydronic systems are rather detained in their installation.

For example, in the hydronic system, an entire series of pipes set into a concrete slab is installed under the floor. A boiler will heat the liquid that is pumped through the pipes. If you are looking for more of a spot heating system or smaller areas then the electric system is much better suited.

Radiant heat installation is not an easy job, especially if you are looking to install it in an existing home as a renovation. It is far better to have it installed in a new home but it can be done as a renovation in an existing home.

The basics of radiant heat installation consist of having an electric blanket placed under the floor. There is no central device required to provide the heat. It is best to have the heating mat installed over a concrete slab, which helps to absorb the heat while the system is on. There are many benefits associated with this type of system. The most popular being that it provides uniform heat to the entire area it is heating.

Another type of radiant heat installation involves installing tubes under the flooring. A boiler unit will heat the water and pump it through the tubes that are under the floor. This is an efficient system but quite costly to implement. The tubes are embedded into the concrete slab that is under the floor.

Can you do a radiant heat installation on your own? As far as the electrical aspect of the install goes, you will need a qualified electrician on hand to make sure it is up to code. If you choose to have a hydronic system then a professional should undertake this project.

Regardless of the specific type of radiant heat installation you choose, you will be pleased with the performance and overall energy savings you will enjoy.

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