Installing in-floor radiant heat can be an efficient and comfortable way to warm your home. The system works by using hot water or electric coils installed beneath your flooring to radiate heat throughout your living space. Here’s everything you need to know about in-floor radiant heat installation.
Types of In-Floor Radiant Heat
There are two types of in-floor radiant heat systems: electric and hydronic. Electric systems use electric coils that are installed beneath the floor to heat the space. Hydronic systems use hot water that is circulated through plastic tubing installed beneath the floor. Hydronic systems tend to be more efficient and cost-effective, but electric systems may be a good option for smaller spaces or renovations where adding a hydronic system may be too costly or difficult.
Pre-Installation Considerations
Before installing in-floor radiant heat, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. First, you’ll need to make sure your subfloor is suitable for the installation. If your subfloor is concrete, you can install in-floor radiant heat on top of it. If your subfloor is made of wood, you may need to remove it and install a new subfloor to ensure the in-floor heating system is installed correctly.
You’ll also need to consider the type of flooring you plan to install over the in-floor heating system. Certain types of flooring, such as carpet and some types of hardwood, are not suitable for use with in-floor radiant heat. Tile and natural stone tend to be the best options for use with in-floor heating, but you can also use luxury vinyl or engineered hardwood flooring.
Installation Process
The installation process for in-floor radiant heat will depend on the type of system you choose. For hydronic systems, plastic tubing is installed in a loop pattern beneath the floor. The tubing is connected to a boiler or water heater that heats the water before it’s circulated through the tubing.
For electric systems, electric coils are installed beneath the floor in a similar pattern to the tubing used in hydronic systems. The coils are then connected to an electric source that heats the coils before they radiate heat throughout the space.
Regardless of the type of system you choose, it’s important to work with a professional installer to ensure the system is installed correctly. This will help prevent any issues with leaks or damage to your flooring and subfloor.
Benefits of In-Floor Radiant Heat
In-floor radiant heat offers several benefits over traditional heating systems. First, it provides more even heating throughout the space, eliminating cold spots and drafts. This can make your home more comfortable and reduce your energy bills.
In-floor radiant heat is also a more efficient heating option. Because the heat is radiated from the floor, it doesn’t rise to the ceiling like with traditional forced-air heating systems. This means you can set your thermostat lower and still feel warm and comfortable.
Finally, in-floor radiant heat is a great option for allergy sufferers. Traditional forced-air heating systems can circulate dust, allergens, and other particles throughout the home. In-floor radiant heat doesn’t use air to circulate heat, so it’s a great option for those with allergies or respiratory issues.
Conclusion
In-floor radiant heat can be a great option for homeowners looking for an efficient and comfortable heating solution. With the right installation and maintenance, in-floor radiant heat can provide even, comfortable heat throughout your home for years to come.