Radiant Floor Heating - Frequently Asked Questions

Q.

How do radiant heat systems work?

A.

Electric radiant floor heating systems typically utilize heat cable or thin heating panels that are embedded under the floor surface. When the floor heating system is activated, the energy is forced through a conductive material (such as heat cable), creating resistance or heat. Heat radiates and warms the floor and room. Electric floor heating systems feature rapid response times and energy-efficient operation.

Hydronic radiant heat systems utilize specially treated water that is heated by a boiler and then a pump cycles the liquid through a series of PEX tubing that is installed under the floor's surface.

Q.

How much does it cost to install radiant heat?

A.

No two radiant heating projects are exactly alike. For accurate pricing, submit your project information for a free quote. (This information includes square footage, surface type, location, etc.)

Q.

Are radiant heating systems really energy efficient?

A.

Radiant floor heating systems can be controlled by "zones" or rooms, allowing you the flexibility to heat precisely where and when you need. (Each room is controlled by its own thermostat.) Unlike the furnace of a forced-air system that operates at one level, regardless of whether you have closed off vents in some rooms, individual zones (rooms) of radiant heat systems are capable of being controlled by separately - efficiently giving the user precise control over the system. The floor heating systems can also be programmed to turn on and shut off when you choose, so you can program the heat to warm your home just before you get up in the morning as well as right before you get home from work in the evening. Radiant heat is convenient, easy to operate, and very efficient.

Q.

What are the indoor applications that radiant heat can be used for?

A.

Radiant floor heating systems can be installed under virtually any floor surface, including tile, laminate, vinyl, hardwood, marble, etc. There are many different types of floor heating systems, each designed for specific floor types, so be sure to shop around and call to talk with a floor heating expert (888.488.9276).

Q.

Do you recommend electric or hydronic floor heating products?

A.

Different systems make more sense in different applications. Hydronic floor heating systems can offer lower operating costs, but the initial installation costs are significantly higher because of the necessary components. Electric floor heating systems are typically recommended for heating smaller areas or select rooms. Whe you are shopping for a radiant heating system, it is highly recommended to deal with a provider that offers both hydronic and electric floor heating solutions (like Warmzone). Visit the electric floor heating and the hydronic floor heating pages on this site to learn more about these two floor heating technologies.

Q.

What floor heating system do you recommend under hardwood flooring?

A.

The low-voltage FloorHeat system and the innovative FilmHeat systems are ideal solutions for heating under hardwood floors. FloorHeat is installed under the hardwood flooring and nails can be used to secure it to the floor without causing any damage to the system. The FilmHeat system utilizes a thin heating panel (only 0.016-inch thick) that is installed directly under floating floors.

In-Slab heat cable is a less expensive option because the cable is installed directly in the concrete slab; however, this option is only possible for floors installed on top of concrete slabs. (Learn more about heating hardwood floors.)

Q.

What radiant heating system do you recommend for heating under tile floors?

A.

Different systems are recommended depending on the size of the area you are heating. Radiant heat cables and mats (such as ComfortTile) are inexpensive and effective options. ComfortTile is one of the most widely recommended systems, but a variety of other floor heating options are available. (Learn more about heating tile floors.)

Q.

Can I heat under carpet floors? If so, what system do you recommend?

A.

Several different floor heating systems can be used to heat rooms with carpeted flooring. The low-voltage FloorHeat STEP system is an excellent option for heating under carpet, and can be installed directly under the carpet pad. In-Slab floor heating systems are also recommended, as well as FilmHeat, FoilHeat, and even hydronic floor heating systems. (Learn more about heating carpet floors.)

Q.

Do I need a system layout; and if so, who provides the best radiant floor heating system designs?

A.

When dealing with a radiant heat provider, always make sure that complete system design (by qualified experts) is included. A good benchmark for system design drawings (and customer service) is that provided with this radiant heat services link. (View more information and a sample of a radiant heat system design drawing.) Call an expert at 888.488.9276 for more information about radiant heat system layouts, support services, and power requirements.