How to Plan for Radiant Heating

Planning for Radiant Heating

• 1

  Consider the time required in installing radiant heating. Especially in older homes, the top flooring surfaces need to be removed so that the heating elements can be fixed to the sub flooring. This procedure disrupts normal use of the home for an extended period. Determine a convenient time for the installation, maybe during a larger renovation project.

• 2

  Evaluate the cost of installing radiant heating and the cost of energy in your area. Rates and installation costs vary widely. If the cost of electricity is high in your area, consider installing hydronic radiant heating.

• 3

  Write down the initial expense of installing radiant flooring. Ask a radiant specialist to estimate your monthly energy costs to heat with the radiant flooring. Make sure that installing radiant flooring will fit your budget and be cost-effective in the long term.

• 4

  Consider the size of the area where you will install radiant heating. If you want to heat many rooms or a very large area, consider installing individual thermostats for each area.

• 5

  Consult with a radiant heat specialist to determine if your home's insulation is sufficient, or if additional insulation would provide maximum efficiency.

• 6

  Also consider the type of floor insulation required, depending on the type of flooring. If installing a radiant heating system in an older home, take into account that adding the heating grid system and insulation can add up to 5/8th of an inch to the floor height. "Wet installation" is another type of insulation, which buries the heating elements into a concrete slab. Ceramic tile is the most effective radiant floor covering, because it conducts heat well, although wood and vinyl also work well. Carpet must be additionally insulated with a thin layer of foam.