You're remodeling the toilet and also have dreams of adding some spa like comforts. A garden tub with pulsating jets, luxurious tile and comfy fixtures come to mind. And maybe even a heated floor. Plenty of people are considering radiant-heated floors because of that extra degree of spa-like comfort and ease. Before you decide about a heated floor, you should know some of the advantages and disadvantages of these kinds of heating systems. Here's a brief run down on the primary types of systems and the benefits and drawbacks for using this kind of heat. Of course, your neighborhood HVAC professional will have more detailed information.
Heating Flooring Systems: Which to Choose?
There are two main types of radiant-heated floors. The first is electric, which provides heat through electrically heated coils. The second reason is hydronic, which provides heat through water-filled tubes. The tubes can be heated in many ways using solar power, oil, gas or kerosene. Uncertain which to choose? Ask your local HVAC professional for their advice.
The Upside of Electric Radiant-Heated Floors
If you are adding heated floors to the bathrooms or even to the whole house, there are some definite positives to radiant-heated flooring. The first of course is ease and comfort. There is nothing like getting up on a chilly morning and putting your ft on warm hardwood flooring. Radiant-heated floors also take up no extra space. Because this kind of flooring is installed underneath the floors, it is totally out of sight except for the thermostat. Usage cost is a pro aswell. Users of radiant-heated flooring report about a 15 percent to 30 percent upsurge in their heating expenses, depending on the floor installers GA size flooring they have got installed. Get in touch with your local HVAC professional to obtain a even more localized estimate. Durability is also a great factor with radiant heated flooring. Protected by two solid layers, these systems were made to last. And on the plus side, the installation period is rather short. Allergy sufferers reap the benefits of these systems as well! They offer cozy warmth without blowing around a whole lot of dust.
The Downside of Electric Radiant-Heated Floors
There are some down sides to adding a power heated floor. One is the heated floor system can not be retrofitted under your existing floors. Your neighborhood HVAC specialist will have to take up the old flooring, install the heated program and change the flooring. Turn to spend about $15 to $20 per square foot. Also, you may need brand-new wiring from the main electric circuit panel in order to adequately power your heat. And finally, radiant flooring doesn't temperature up as quickly as an area heater. You might have to wait around for an hour before your floors are warm.
The Upside of Hydronic Radiant-Heated Floors
You'll find the same positives as you did with the electric powered system in addition to some fuel-cost savings. Whether you go with solar or essential oil, these electric alternatives can save you money. Ask your HVAC specialist which system he recommends and why.
The Drawback of a Hydronic Heated Floor
Add the same disadvantages as the electric counterpart plus one more. While electrical systems are long lasting, with a hydronic heated flooring, you have the opportunity of experiencing water damage. With a significant leak there may be damage to your floors, your furniture and your flooring installation near me home. Contact your local HVAC professional for his recommendations on radiant-heated floors.