Radiant floor heating can be an efficient and energy saving method to produce warmth in the home. Simply put, heat is channeled in the floor to provide a warm and cozy feeling. This type of heating is also called infrared radiation. The system uses the convection principle where the heat rises from the floor by natural circulation of heat.
Typically, there are three different methods of radiant floor heating air, hydronic or water and electric. The particular type of system installed depends upon the individual, available heat sources and of course, the cost. Radiant floor heating can be especially helpful to persons with allergies since the reduction of free flowing air is reduced. Energy efficiency is further increased by the reduction of air loss from air duct systems.
Hydronic heating systems or water-heated systems use hot water to circulate the warmth. The heated water radiant floor heating is considered the most effective and cost efficient of the three most common types of radiant floor heating. The heated water is circulated through piping or tubing placed under the floor. The piping system is attached to a boiler that is used to heat the water. A number of different methods such as gas, wood, or solar power can heat the boiler.
Electric radiant floors are comprised by a matting system placed under the floor surface or by the use of electric cables. More useful over a thick concrete slab, the system can actually store heat and help reduce heating costs. Typically, electricity rates are higher than other utility sources but with the right surface area, electric heat can actually save heating costs and energy efficiency.
Air heated systems deliver the heat by the circulation of hot air. This system can use various different methods to heat the air such as solar power. The best heating time for solar powered heat is during the day. Air heated radiant floor systems are not as cost efficient since air does not hold heat very well. This type of radiant floor heating is not widely used because of the cost and effectiveness of the heating system.
The total cost of each system can be quite daunting at first glance. This is a case where you have to spend money to save money. The total heated area, location and method used will determine which type of radiant floor heat will be the most cost effective and energy efficient for a particular homeowner. Many homeowners and contractors will use floor heat for new editions, remodeling and new home repair.
Energy efficient, earth friendly and easy on the monthly utility bills make radiant floor heating a wise choice for the homeowner. Since less heat is lost, and dust and other pollens are reduced from the typical duct system, radiant floor heating becomes even more of a home's asset.
Radiant In Floor Heating
A large number of Americans are turning to very popular alternative form of home heating called radiant floor heat. Some choose to use it in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements as supplemental heating and to take the chill off of cold floors. Others use it to heat their entire home. When home owners research these products they typically find several options including hot water tubes, electric cables and mats, and a newer product called Zmesh.
Zmesh is a bronze woven screen door like material that comes in rolls of nine inch or twelve inch widths and various lengths. The height of the mesh is nearly the same as your window screen. Resistant heat is created by the Zmesh when a low voltage current is passes through it at 32 volts or less. The Zmesh system can produce up to 40 BTU's per sq. ft and has many advantages both in installation and operation.
Installation advantages are many. Due to the low profile nature of the Zmesh it can be installed directly on wood or concrete sub floors and then the floor covering of your choice can be installed directly over it with out any floor build up. For example, if you are remodeling your basement and wanted to add radiant heat you would pull up your carpet, roll out the Zmesh and replace your carpet pad and carpet directly over it. The same process is also used for hardwood, tile, laminate and most other floor coverings.
The Zmesh is designed for longevity. Gentle low voltage that passes through the Zmesh does not cause wear and tear like most electric radiant systems. The bronze make up of the Zmesh also eliminates potential corrosion caused by water damage. The engineering of the screen allows you to do something you wouldn't think of with radiant heating products. The Zmesh can actually be nailed or stapled through as long as the nail or staple does not come in contact with other metal objects. This eliminates concerns of breaking pipes or cables while installing floor coverings over radiant heat.
The durability of the Zmesh aids in easing the install process for radiant heat. Zmesh is stapled down to a wood sub floor or glued to a concrete slab. It rolls out in 9 or12 inch widths and at the end of the room it folds over itself and runs back the other direction with a 2” spacing between runs. The two ends of the roll of Zmesh terminate at the cold leads in the wall that run back to a low voltage transformer that would be installed in a utility room.
Zmesh radiant heating systems are usually controlled by a programmable floor sensing thermostat to add to the cost effective operation of radiant heat. Other benefits to a Zmesh radiant heat system include quiet operation, even distribution of heat, no vents required, clean, and very comfortable.
Zmesh is used for remodeling applications as much as new construction. Adding heat to sunroom, home addition, or adding radiant to any existing building is much easier with a product that does not induce floor build up. Zmesh is also used on roofs because it can be installed under shingles. This prevents ice dams and ice cycles without ugly cables hanging off your roof.
The installation of Zmesh is simple. There are many individuals who install the system themselves, but you may be able to find a professional who is willing to perform the installation for you. Should you make the decision to save money on the installation, and do it yourself, you are provided with detailed directions. Zmesh comes with a full installation guide. It is important to note that although you can install the system yourself, you will need an electrician to help you get the heating system up and running so you can enjoy the comfort of warm floors for year to come.
Both Gen Wright & Michael Singer are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Gen Wright has sinced written about articles on various topics from Terrier Dogs, Acne Treatment and Lose Weight. Visit our website for more information on and. Gen Wright's top article generates over 1220000 views. to your Favourites.
Michael Singer has sinced written about articles on various topics from Pets, Advertising Guide and Forex Guide. For more information on please visit our site. We specialize in a wide variety of. Michael Singer's top article generates over 18100 views. to your Favourites.
