Floor Heat Vs. Forced Air

Floor Heating

• Floor heating is also known as radiant floor heating. Radiant systems utilize a network of hot water lines or electric heating coils installed under subfloors that heat the floor. Because the heat comes through the floors, the human body feels the heat quicker. This makes radiant floor heating efficient and effective, as compared to forced air heat which has to heat the whole room. Hydronic (hot water) radiant systems are the most cost-effective for home heating, as they can utilize the hot water that's sitting in your hot water heater, or be run off solar panels.

Forced Air

• A forced air heating system is one that delivers warm or cool air via a duct system that is connected to the furnace in the home. Forced air systems are a component of a home's overall HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) system. Systems work in conjunction with the home's gas (natural or propane) or electric furnace. In the U.S., the majority of homes use gas forced air systems. If you have a forced air system, the air (warm or cool) can be vented through vents at duct openings on the floor, on the ceiling or along baseboards or walls.

Similarities

• Radiant floor heating and forced air systems have fundamental similarities: both distribute heat to increase the temperature inside a room. Each type of system is also dependent on using some form of energy, be it gas, electricity, or solar. A forced air system requires electricity to operate the thermostat and the furnace, while a radiant system only needs electricity for a thermostat.

Differences

• Radiant floor heating is more efficient than forced air heating because it concentrates heat where it is needed most. Heat loss through roofs and walls is reduced, and no duct and ventilation system is required. A radiant system is more costly to install initially, but the energy savings can pay off in less than five years, if you keep your home at 68 degrees Fahrenheit. On the other hand, a forced air system costs less to install, and combines the conveniences of having a central HVAC system to handle both your heating and cooling needs. This is an important consideration for homeowners who want both: a home that's warm in the winter, and one that's cool and comfortable in summer. In that case, a dual-system, using radiant heated floors for winter and a forced air HVAC for cooling in the summer may be an effective and efficient choice.