Comfortable, efficient radiant floor heating is becoming more popular in today 's homes. The system works by circulating warm water through tubing embedded in concrete flooring. The water heats the concrete, which in turn heats the entire house evenly . Because the system heats the floor rather than the air, the heat tends to stay in the lower "living zone," rather than rising and collecting at the ceiling.
The system uses flexible cross-linked polyethylene plastic tubing (figure A ) that can handle the heat from the water. After the floor is formed over the tubing (figure B), warm water flows through in a continuous loop from manifolds in the wall.
Planning, and a knowledgeable contractor, are important keys to success with radiant heating. First, the contractor should perform a detailed heat-loss analysis, which will form the basis for the placement of the tubing. For example, tubing might be placed closely together near a window to create a curtain of warmth.
Radiant floor heating systems are more expensive to install, but advocates say it's an investment in comfort. The systems provide uniform heat and allow homeowners to heat specific "zones" of their homes.
Another advantage of radiant systems is that they don't dry the air or cause the dust and noise associated with forced-air systems. They may also, in some cases, completely eliminate the need for air ducts and room registers.
Radiant floor systems are common in Europe and are a natural fit in many homes in the United States, particularly in colder climates. Herb Pilhover, who owns a timber frame home in St. Paul, Minnesota, says there was no question about installing radiant heat in his home.
"I had it in a cabin in northern Wisconsin, and that spoiled me forever," he says . "It's the only way to go."
Guests Kevin Streeter
Builder
Streeter & Associates
18304 Minnetonka Blvd.
Wayzata, MN 55391-3272
Phone: 612-449-9448
Fax: 612-449-4987
Keith Kelley
Radiant Heating Contractor
Radiant Concepts
2795 Hwy. 55 E, Suite B
Eagan, MN 55121
Phone: 651-452-2025
Fax: 651-452-6925
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