Q. |
How do radiant heat systems work? |
| A. |
Electric radiant heat systems utilize heat cable that is embedded in the floor. When the floor heating system is turned on, the energy forced through a conductive material (heat cable) creates 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 systems are exactly alike. For accurate pricing, submit your project information to a reputable company for a free quote. (This information includes square footage, surface type, location, etc.) |
Q. |
Are radiant heating systems really energy efficient? |
A. |
Radiant heat technology is the most efficient technology for heating indoor and outdoor locations. The heating element is embedded below the surface, where it radiates warmth across the driveway or sidewalk. Virtually no energy is wasted, as over 99 percent of the energy devoted to these systems translates directly to heat. Floor heating systems are equally efficient, and each room is operated by its own controller (thermostat). This gives the user precise control over which areas to warm. The floor heating systems can also be programmed to turn on and shut off when you choose, so you can program the heat to accommodate your schedule. |
Q. |
In what types of surfaces can snow melting systems be installed? |
| A. |
Warmzone heated driveways and snow melting systems can be installed in almost any surface, including concrete, stamped concrete, asphalt, and under pavers. View photos of snow melting systems that are installed. |
Q. |
What are the power requirements for a radiant snow melting system? |
A. |
The power requirements vary from system to system. Generally, cable heating systems require a 240 V. 30 amp breaker for every 300 square feet you are heating. (On average, a 240 V. 30 amp breaker is required for every 175 square feet you are snow melting.) |
Q. |
Are snow melting systems manually or automatically activated? |
A. |
Radiant snowmelt systems come with different options. Most systems come standard with an aerial-mounted, automatic snow switch and a 4-hour manual timer. The system automatically turns on when the temperature is below a set point (usually 38°F or 39°F) and there is moisture on the sensor. Pavement-mounted snow sensors are also available. These sensors also trigger the system when weather conditions warrant. |
Q. |
What are the operational costs of snow melting systems? |
A. |
As of 2018, the average operational cost for a snow melting system is approximately $0.28 per 100 square feet per hour. This figure is based on a system producing 35 watts/sq. ft. with a kwh rate of $0.08 per hour (the national average kwh is $.08/hour). If you know the square feet of the area you want to heat and your kwh rate, you can calculate the operational costs with this formula: heatable sq. ft. times watts/sq. ft., divided by 1000, times your kwh rate. |
Q. |
Who provides the best radiant snow melting system designs? |
A. |
A good benchmark is the AutoCAD drawings provided by the Warmzone radiant design team. No system should be purchased without a detailed system design layout as included with all Warmzone systems. (View samples of radiant heat system design drawings.) Call 888.488.9276 for more information. |
For more information about radiant heating systems, call a radiant heat expert at 888.488.9276.
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