There’s nothing worse than waking up early in the winter, leaving the comfort of your warm bed, and stepping onto an ice-cold floor. It makes heated floors seem like more of a necessity and less of a luxury. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about in-floor heating. If this is something you’re considering, stick around to find out more.
What is in-floor heating?
In-floor heating, also called radiant floor heating, is a heating system that’s installed beneath the floors. It conducts heat through floor surfaces instead of through the air.
How does it work?
There are two very different types of in-floor heating systems commonly used today. They are hydronic radiant heat systems and electric radiant heat systems. Electric radiant heat systems have cables installed between the floor and subfloor, and electricity heats these cables. The result is a heated floor. This is a great solution if you need to heat a small space, like a bathroom. Although these systems are affordable and relatively easy to install, they’re more expensive to operate. Heating an entire house with an electric radiant heat system would cost a fortune.
Hydronic radiant heat systems circulate heated water through a network of tubes beneath the floor. This system is much more cost-effective than electric radiant heat systems. Since it’s less expensive to operate, it’s a great solution for a large space or an entire home. Additionally, it heats at a more even rate. Electric radiant heat systems are best used to supplement another heating solution. On the other hand, hydronic radiant heat systems can compete with and outperform whole-home forced-air systems.
What types of flooring work best with in-floor heating systems?
Radiant floor heating systems can be used with any flooring material, but some work better than others. Materials such as ceramic tile, concrete, or stone are great because they can effectively conduct and transfer heat. They’re also able to stand up to high temperatures. If your floors are made out of vinyl or laminate, then you’ll have some temperature limitations. Additionally, floors made of solid wood tend to expand and shrink with extreme temperatures. This can result in cracks and gaps. Carpeted floors have issues as well. The carpet may insulate the heat, reducing its flow. As you can see, it’s important to consider your flooring material when making decisions on an in-floor heating system.
What are the benefits?
No matter what system you choose, radiant heat systems offer several advantages. For one thing, it’s ductless. That means it’s invisible and out of the way. Another advantage is that it’s completely silent. Since it’s not a forced-air system, there’s no roar when the heat is being distributed. Additionally, radiant heat preserves the quality of your indoor air. Systems with forced-air ducts distribute dust throughout your entire home whenever the system turns on. Since radiant heat systems are ductless, it reduces the amount of dust and air particles spread throughout your house. This is a great benefit for anyone with allergies, asthma, or other health conditions.
In-floor heating systems can be a great solution for your home. Do you have questions about in-floor heating? Our experts at K&S can help. Give us a call today, or schedule your appointment online. You can reach us at (507) 282-4328 for our Rochester location, and (952) 697-4328 for our Twin Cities location.
