You are renovating the bathroom and desire to add several spa like luxuries. An big tub with pulsing jets, glamorous porcelain tile and cozy furnishings pop into your mind. And even perhaps a heated floor. Many people are looking at radiant-heated floors because of that extra degree of spa-like level of comfort. Before making a decision about a heated floor, you need to know a few of the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of home heating systems. Here is a little run-down about the primary varieties of systems plus the advantages and disadvantages for using this kind of home heating system. Needless to say, any local heating and air conditioning specialist will have more in depth details.
Heater Floor Systems: Which to consider?
There's two main types of radiant-heated floors. First is electric, which supplies heat through electrically warmed up coils. Second is hydronic, providing heat via water-filled pipes. The pipes can be heated in a number of ways utilizing a solar panel, oil, gas or even kerosene. Not sure which to settle on? Ask your local HVAC expert for their recommendation.
The Advantages of Electric Radiant-Heated Floors
If you're installing heated floors in your bathrooms or to the entire house, there are many benefits to radiant-heated flooring. The main benefit needless to say is comfort. There isn't anything like getting out of bed on a freezing morning and putting your feet on warm hard wood floors. Radiant-heated floors also occupy absolutely no extra space. Since this kind of flooring is mounted beneath the flooring, it's totally out of view aside from the thermostat. Usage cost is a pro on top of that. Users of radiant-heated flooring claim that they save about 15 percent to 30 percent in their heating costs, based on the size flooring they've got installed. Sturdiness is another excellent element with radiant heated floors. Shielded by 2 solid layers, these systems were designed to last. And on the plus side, the set up . time is reasonably short. Allergy affected individuals benefit from these systems as well! They supply relaxing warmth without throwing out a lot of dust in the air.
The Down-side of electrical Radiant-Heated Floors
There are a few drawbacks to using an electric powered heated floor. The first is the heated floor system can't be retrofitted beneath your pre-existing flooring. The HVAC tech will have to remove the old floor, install the heated system and install new flooring. Expect to invest approximately $15 to $20 for every sq . ft .. Additionally, you might need new electrical wiring from the main electric circuit panel in order to properly power your heating system. And finally, radiant flooring won't warm up as fast as a space heater. You have to wait for an hour before your floors are heated.
The Benefit of Hydronic Radiant-Heated Floors
You will see the same advantages as you did with the electric system as well as some fuel-cost savings. Whether you decide to go with solar or oil, these electric alternatives will save you money.
The Drawback of a Hydronic Heated Floor
Add the same negative aspects as the electric version plus one more. While electric systems are durable, with a hydronic heated floor, there is a possibility of having water damage. With a substantial leak there could be damage to your floors, your furnishings as well as your house.
Not sure which to choose? Contact your local Sandium HVAC technician for their advice.
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