Heaters are a great way to keep yourself warm and cozy amidst long and chilly winter nights. Thanks to scientific advancements, modern heating technologies have taken over the traditional methods of keeping the house warm.
One such technology is Radiant Floor Heating. In this article, you will know how this floor heating works and its associated benefits and drawbacks. So, make sure you scroll down to the end of the article to make the most out of it. To know more about floor heating and its associated costs, click on this link: https://alpinecredits.ca/heated-floor-cost/
How Does Floor Heating Work?
While traditional heating systems warm you up by heating the air in its proximity, radiant heating systems directly heat the entire ambiance.
Floor heating is predominantly of two types: Electric heating and Hydronic (water-based) heating.
In electricity-based heating, electric coils or electric heating elements are woven into a serpentine pattern and laid under your floorboards. It then generates enough heat to warm up the house.
As for the water-based systems, hot water is pumped from a boiler through tubing laid beneath your flooring to heat the house.
Pros Of Floor Heating
- Uniform Heating
Traditional and air-based heating systems can only heat houses from fixed locations in the house, such as vents and fireplaces. And their respective locations determine which parts of the house end up warmer while leaving cold spots in many areas.
At the same time, heated flooring radiates warmth throughout the house resulting in an evenly heated room and house.
- Energy Efficient
It is a popular misconception that floor heating uses more energy than traditional heating systems. However, nothing can be farther away from the truth!
Unlike traditional radiators, floor heaters can run at much lower energy without providing any escape routes for the heat.
On the contrary, air-based heaters are susceptible to leakages. It means that virtually all heat is retained, and you don’t need to keep your heaters running on full blast even when your room is warm enough.
Floor heating systems also come with programmable or WiFi-connected thermostats that allow users to maintain the heat levels per their suitability easily.
- Maintenance
Heated floors require minimal maintenance, and most heating systems even come with a guarantee.
Moreover, floor heating systems are not easily damaged and come with fairly durable ages. Plus, they are compatible with almost all floor types, whether it’s hardwood or vinyl.
And since they hardly require repairs, some heaters even have a warranty of 25 years or more. Of course, no one can predict accidents, but there is no immediate need to worry about any early repairs and maintenance.
- Safety
Floor heaters are tucked beneath the flooring, so there’s no need to worry about children or family members accidentally tripping over or grazing against a hot exposed element.
Radiant heating does not trigger any allergens, nor does it affect the oxygen levels. So, you can enjoy comfortable warmth without any health risk at all.
- No Noise
Another reason why underfloor heating systems are popular is due to their capability to work silently.
There won’t be any unnecessary whirring, banging, or kicking noises in the background, and your house will still be warm.
Cons of Floor Heating
- Initial installation costs and time
As expected with great returns, initial purchase and installation costs can be quite expensive, with the average installation cost being $8-$12 per square foot of your home.
In addition to this, you may also need to hire a qualified electrician for the job, which will cost you another $200 or more.
Another thing to consider is the time it takes to complete the installation. Underfloor heating is not a one-step process and usually takes more than a day to complete!
- Flooring Removal
Whether electric or hydronic, floor heating systems require all existing floorboards to be removed before installation.
That is why it’s recommended to get floor heaters installed during renovations or home construction. This will save you a lot of trouble, time, and also money.
- Elevated Floor Height
Floor heating systems elevate the height of your floor by less than half an inch. However, it will depend on the type of system you choose, with some going as low as 1/8 inch.
However, hydronic floor-heating systems elevate the floor significantly more. And most of the time, losing some elevation to your flooring is not a cause of much discomfort, but this all depends on personal preference and the size of your home.
Endnote
While buying and installing a floor heating system may seem a bit costly at first, the utmost comfort and resistance against the cold it provides you makes it worth the investment.
Moreover, it is more of a one-time investment that provides long-lasting leisure and comfort. Modern floor heating systems not only keep your house warm but also ensure the safety of house dwellers.
FAQs
Is radiant floor heating worth it?
If you don’t mind a slightly elevated floor and are willing to spend that extra buck on installations, then radiant floor heating is the ideal house warmer for you and your family.
Usually, floor heaters come with a minimum warranty of 25 years and can last for decades after first installations. However, the product’s life may vary depending on factors like the brand, correct installation, condition of the flooring, etc.
Is it true that heated floors save you money?
Besides the initial installation charges, there isn’t any other area left for you to pour your money into. Floor heating comes with high durability and requires little to no maintenance and repairs.
They are also energy efficient and save as much as 25% or more on energy generation and output than traditional radiators and forced-air heaters. This consequently and significantly reduces your electric bill!
Does floor heating add value to your home?
Yes, floor heating adds value to your home. However, since floor heaters are still up and coming and high-end, many buyers are willing to pay a greater price for a well-kept floor heater than having to install it themselves.
