Key Takeaways:
- In-floor heating comprises heat radiating systems installed in floors that exchange heat via electrical or water-based heating units.
- It is a very energy-efficient upgrade to ensure even heating throughout the home while maintaining air quality and ensuring cost savings.
- Heated floors offer a variety of benefits to homeowners. They are safe, promote a healthy lifestyle, and they enhance the property’s resale value. Plus, the core heating (boiler or furnace) can help you avail of tax credits & rebates on thermal operational efficiency.
- Plumbing services are paramount to installing hydronic floor heating because the system comprises water-carrying pipes, pumps & backflow pressure valves.
- B & C Plumbing & Heating is a reliable heating, cooling, and plumbing company in Rochester, MN. Schedule a free consultation with us today!
Have you ever seen those home improvement television shows where they document some couples’ dream home construction? Most times, you might have spotted the strange pipes & connections in the floors covered under poured concrete. That’s in-floor heating, and it is the best thing to happen for warmer floors since the Romans invented underfloor heating for their bathhouses.
In this article, B & C Plumbing & Heating, a reputed plumbing company in Rochester, MN, will cover a cost & energy-efficient radiant heating system for toasty floors & warm interiors. By the end of this blog post, you will definitely want new floors!
Heated Floors – Explained
A radiant heating system warms a home by emitting heat from a central source, such as a boiler or a hot water tank, through a series of pipes or electrical cables. The heat is then transferred to surfaces within the home, such as the floors, walls, or ceilings, which in turn radiate the heat into the living space.
Since warm air is lighter as compared to cold air, the convectional current created by the different air densities maintains even heating within a space. The hydronic nature of the heating also ensures warmth for longer periods.
Types Of In-Floor Heating – Picking the Right One | Plumbing Company in Rochester, MN
Two main types of floor heating systems are hydronic (water-based) and electric. Hydronic systems circulate hot water through pipes installed under the floor or in walls. In contrast, electric systems use electrical cables or mats installed under the flooring.
Radiant heating has several advantages over traditional forced-air heating systems. For example, it provides a more comfortable and consistent temperature in a home since the heat is not blown around by a fan, which can create drafts. Additionally, the system does not circulate dust and other allergens, making it a good choice for those with allergies or respiratory issues.
It is also highly energy-efficient since it eliminates the need for ducts and other components that can reduce the efficiency of a forced-air heating system. Furthermore, it is often less expensive to install than a traditional heating system since it does not require the installation of ducts or air vents.
Reasons To Upgrade to In-Floor Heating
1. Increased comfort:
These systems provide a more even distribution of heat throughout the room, eliminating cold spots and creating a comfortable living environment.
2. Energy efficiency | Plumbing Company in Rochester, MN:
The system is more energy efficient than traditional heating systems because the heat is generated close to the ground, where needed, reducing the amount of heat lost through convection.
3. Health benefits:
An upgrade can help reduce allergens and improve indoor air quality by reducing the amount of dust and other particles circulating in the air.
4. Increased property value:
Having warmed floors can increase the value of your property, as it is seen as a luxury feature and can be a selling point for potential buyers.
5. Increased safety | Plumbing Company in Rochester, MN:
These systems are much safer than traditional heating systems because they do not require radiators or other heat-emitting devices that can become hot to the touch, reducing the risk of burns or fires.
6. Improved design:
These systems allow for greater design flexibility, as they can be installed under flooring materials, freeing up wall space and allowing for a more open and airier feel.
7. Lower maintenance:
These systems are low-maintenance, as they do not require regular cleaning or adjustment, reducing the time and effort required to keep them functioning properly.
If you’re wondering how to deal with an in-floor heating installation that involves the hydronic system, we are a plumbing company in Rochester, MN, capable of the job!
Further Radiant Heating Applications
This type of heating system provides warmth to a room by heating surfaces such as floors, walls, or ceilings. It works by circulating hot water or electricity through pipes or electrical cables in the floor, walls, or ceiling. The heat from these surfaces radiates into the room, warming the air and the occupants. Radiant heating is used in residential and commercial buildings and can be used as a primary or supplementary heating source.
Some common ways that radiant systems are used to heat homes include:
Wall heating:
This involves installing hot water or electric heating elements in the walls. The heat radiates into the room, warming the air and the occupants.
Ceiling heating | Plumbing Company in Rochester, MN:
That involves installing hot water or electric heating elements in the ceiling. The heat radiates down into the room, warming the air and the occupants.
This form of heating can be combined with other heating systems, such as forced-air heating, to provide a more complete and efficient heating solution. Additionally, radiant heating can be used with cooling systems, such as air conditioning, to provide heating and cooling to a home.
In-Floor Heating Installations – Call in A Plumber!
Yes, plumbing services are typically required to install radiant heating systems, particularly hydronic (water-based) systems. These systems circulate hot water through pipes installed in the floor or walls, requiring a properly functioning plumbing system to supply the hot water.
A capable plumbing company in Rochester, MN, would be responsible for installing the hot water source, such as a boiler or hot water tank, and the network of pipes that carry the hot water to the various zones in the home. They would also be responsible for connecting the system to the existing plumbing and ensuring that it is properly pressurized and that there are no leaks.
In addition to the plumbing installation, a contractor with expertise in radiant heating systems may also be needed to install the insulation, control systems, and other components of the radiant heating system. Fortunately, we are just the right professionals up to that task near you!
Let the Ace Plumbing Company in Rochester, MN, Warm You Up!
B & C Plumbing & Heating, Rochester’s plumbing experts, provide a wide range of services related to radiant heating systems. We have been in the plumbing and heating industry for over 20 years and understand the importance of having a properly installed, energy-efficient system.
From designing and installation to maintenance and repair, our highly experienced team is always there to help you with anything related to your radiant heating.
Secure a free consultation with us today!
