By circulating heated or chilled water through a network of pipes installed in floors, walls or ceilings, hydronic radiant floor heating and cooling systems maintain spaces at even, comfortable temperatures using less energy than traditional forced-air systems.
Science shows that heat emission from the human body occurs mainly via three mechanisms: radiation, evaporation and convection. Humans feel most comfortable when they can regulate at least 50% of their heat emission via radiation, and when their feet are warmer than their heads.
Radiant floor heating systems provide heat on the basis of low heating surface temperatures over a large area and an even air temperature distribution with mild, comfortable radiated energy. In contrast to conventional forced-air systems, a radiative equilibrium is generated between people and the surfaces throughout the room, more closely achieving the optimal thermal comfort level for occupants.
For an overview of some of the benefits you’ll find with radiant floor heat, read our blog post here.
If you already have radiant floor heating and are in need of repair / maintenance, visit our Radiant Floor Heating Repair page.
Slab
Pipes can be installed within a normal concrete slab either on or below grade, usually with no design changes to the slab.
Overpour
Pipes can be installed above suspended wood floors and encased in a thin slab overpour, usually 1.5 in (38 mm) thick.
Joist Space
Aluminum heat transfer plates are installed directly under the subfloor to conduct heat from the pipes.
Dry Panel
Pipes are snapped into aluminum heat transfer panels placed on top of a suspended wood floor or existing slab.
Radiant Walls and Ceilings
Floors aren’t the only possibilities for radiant heating. With the proper design techniques, you can enjoy a highly effective radiant system when pipes are placed within a stud wall or ceiling.
Heat is gently radiated throughout the space, virtually eliminating cold spots and temperature fluctuations. A radiant heating system also keeps floors warm and dry.
Offers Flexibility:
Radiant heating can be used in floors, walls and ceilings and can be installed in a single room or throughout your home or building. There are no heaters, radiators or additional vents, so you’ll have more design freedom and open space.
The most common applications for radiant systems are: floor warming, floor heating, radiant cooling, snow melting, and frost protection. There are multiple installation methods available depending on the building construction or application.
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