Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is radiant floor heating?

Radiant floor heating is a comfortable and efficient form of heating where warm water circulates through flexible, specially designed tubing (PEX) installed under the floor. The heat radiates evenly up through the floor warming people and objects in the room and providing more comfort for less money.

What types of radiant floor heating are available?

Hydronic systems are the most popular and cost-effective. Hot water is pumped from a boiler through polyethylene tubing underneath the floor. The temperature in each room is controlled by regulating the flow of hot water through each loop of tubing, using a series of thermostats and zoning valves. Electric heating cables can be embedded in a poured-concrete floor, or in the mastic under tiled floors. Some manufacturers offer the product in a portable mat that can be spread under wall-to-wall carpet - a great option mainly for apartment or condo dwellers.

What makes radiant floor heating so comfortable?

Unlike traditional heating systems that just warm the air, radiant heating warms the floor and the objects in contact with the floor. The entire floor distributes a consistent, even, and quiet heating. There are no drafts and radiant floor heating takes the chill out of cold tile, marble and wood floors.

What types of flooring are best for radiant heat?

Ceramic tile is usually the floor covering of choice for radiant heating, but almost any material can be used, depending on how the system is installed. Solid wood flooring can be used, but many manufacturers recommend using laminated wood products instead. This reduces the possibility of warping and cracking from the drying effects of the heat. Carpeting can be used, but keep in mind that it will slow the flow of heat into the room. Use a thin carpet with as little padding as possible.

Can the floor get too hot?

No. A properly designed radiant floor heating system will deliver comfortable warmth that's a pleasure to walk on - especially in bare feet! If additional heat is needed to satisfy the heat load, additional warmth can easily be added by installing radiant walls and/or ceilings.

We already have a concrete floor in the basement. Is it too late to install a Radiant system?

Not at all. There are alternative methods of floor heating that are installed over a plywood subfloor. It's great for putting radiant comfort in a basement or anywhere in your home.

Is it possible to just heat the ceramic floor in our master bath?

Yes. Radiant floor heating systems let you heat only those rooms you want to heat. The bathroom is a big priority for people who don't like to step onto cold tile.

We're not ready to make this investment right now. Can we rough the system in for the future?

Yes. The PEX tubing can be installed in the slab during construction and you can complete the system later. This adds relatively little to the cost of a poured floor, but can add a great deal to the value of your home later.

If I have radiant floor heating, can I still have air conditioning?

Yes. In fact, separate heating and cooling systems really make the most sense. Radiant floor heating keeps the heat near the floor where it does the most good; and air conditioning ductwork is placed only where it is needed to cool your home. The result is optimal comfort and efficiency all year round.

Is radiant floor heating more expensive than the alternatives?

Yes. It will cost more to install, however it's important to remember that radiant floor heating can potentially save up to 40 percent on your heating bills and significantly increase the resale value of your home. That, plus the increased comfort, makes it worth the extra dollars for initial installation.

We've got allergies. Can a radiant floor heating system help?

For many, this is a resounding "Yes!" Radiant heat systems have no drafts, fans or blowers to circulate dust, dirt and other allergens throughout your home. Warm radiant floors can eliminate the need for carpet, which is a breeding ground for dust mites, a very common cause of allergic respiratory disease. The result is a clean, healthy environment -- a must for people with allergies.

What are the benefits of radiant floor heating?

Homeowners with radiant floor systems claim it's the most comfortable heating option. Heat is produced evenly across the entire room, eliminating hot and cold spots common with forced-air systems. Radiant heat also warms from the bottom up - when your feet are warm; the rest of your body feels warm too. Radiant systems are also very quiet, with no noisy blower fans or clunky radiators, and they don't circulate dust and allergens like forced-air systems. During the winter, the humidity remains at a more comfortable level. And best of all, radiant heating systems are energy-efficient - you can set the thermostat of a radiant floor heater six to eight degrees lower than usual and have the same level of comfort. Energy savings of 15 to 20 percent are common.