Introduction to Radiant Floor Heating Systems

These systems distribute heat more evenly throughout a house or office building by forcing either heated air or liquid through panels under the floor or by electric heating. The heat from the floor rises, heating the air in the room in an evenly.

Radiant heating was first used during the Roman Empire, which used an air heating system. Frank Lloyd Wright also used radiant heating in the 1930s. However, Frank Lloyd Wright used liquid or hydronics, which provided better heating. Since Frank Lloyd Wright, many other architects have integrated radiant systems into the plans of their homes. In addition, they have been found to be more energy efficient than traditional forced-air systems. Other benefits of radiant floor heating systems include the added benefits of being quite, do not require ducts, and do not introduce outside dust or pollen into the house, which is why more homeowners are turning to radiant floor heating systems for their homes.

Of the three different types of radiant flooring heating systems, the air heating system is the least popular because of its inability to retain a significant amount of heat over time. The next type of radiant heating is the liquid heat, which are the most common medium used in radiant floor heating systems.

Liquid radiant heating is also known as hydronic systems, and can use nearly anything as their heat-bearing liquid from oil to water. These systems use a central boiler to heat the liquid, which is pumped through the piping heating the home. Radiant floor heating systems require several zones of piping, which allows the heat to be dispersed throughout the house evenly. Shutting off some zones and leaving others open, can regulate the system, especially for areas that are not often in use.

Electric floor systems are extremely popular especially in regions where gas prices are high, or where electricity providers provide off-peak rates. To ensure that you receive the full benefit of the electrical flooring heating system, it is best to install it over a large thermal mass such as concrete, then installing ceramic tiles over the system.

Other types of floor may be used with radiant floor heating systems, including hardwood, linoleum, or vinyl. Ceramic tiles however, are the most popular, because they allow the heat to easily pass through, providing a substantial thermal mass. If you are building or renovating your home, consider using a radiant floor heating system for your home.
 

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