What are Radiant Floors?

Radiant Floors are a method of heating from underneath the floor.

The as the floor becomes warm the heat rises throughout the room.

Many people choose Radiant Floor heat because they enjoy walking on a warm floor and want to avoid the circulation of allergens that is sometimes associated with a traditional furnace heating system.

Installing a new Radiant heating system

We have a great deal of experience with radiant heat -in fact, Lucas the owner and operator of 217, Inc. is a boiler expert and loves working on them. It’s one of his many specialties.

If you are considering a radiant heating installation call us today!

We can help you decide what system is most suitable for your needs and are here to answer any questions you have.

Hydronic Radiant Floor Heating

Probably the most popular of all the types of floor heating and with good reason, hydronic floor heating system are not only energy efficient but fairly cost efficient as well.

As water is naturally a better heat conductor than air warmth is more easily transferred requiring less energy. Tubes underneath the floor carry hot water which can then be used to warm the home.

Valves and pumps can control the flow of water/heat for multiple zones to allow for custom temperatures in different areas of the home.

Electric Floor Heating System

This option is not typically considered energy efficient, and with electricity costs it can be quite costly unless your utility provider offers special rates for off-peak hours. However, using an alternative power source such as wind power or solar panels to power the floor can result in considerable savings. The concept of an electric floor heating system is very similar to hydronic systems except instead of water there are a series of electrically conductive materials that send out heat.

Geothermal water system

A geothermal system can be a good choice for energy efficient heating and cooling and paired with a radiant floor system can provide excellent comfort without the need for ductwork.

There are a lot of options available as well as a lot of things to consider to determine if a geothermal system is right for you.

Learn more about geothermal systems.

Health

Unlike traditional furnaces and other forced air systems, radiant floor heating systems don’t push the air around the home. 

This means dust and allergens are less likely to be sent throughout the home due to a filter that is overdue for a change in a forced air system.

Comfort

Not only do these systems quietier but it’s much easier to control the temperature of individual rooms as well.

Another great aspect is the pleasure of walking on a warm heated floor.

Also, it’s much easier to keep the humidity level of your home balanced with radiant hydronic heat as it doesn’t dry out your home.

 Efficiency

Reduced energy consumption in hydronic heat as it is more efficient than most air heating system as water is naturally better at conducting heat than air.

Radiant heat also does not raise the air pressue in the home unlike a traditional forced air unit that pushes heat out of between small gaps in insulation and other unsealed areas.

Typically these systems run at a cost of about 20 to 40% less than traditional heating. There are also often tax incentives for upgrading to a more energy efficient system.

Installation options for new and existing homes

Hydronic heating can be design around the individual needs to suit any number of conditions.

Systems can run on natural gas, electricity, propane, or oil.

Piping can also easily be placed in the walls without the need for ductwork.