When you are constructing a new home, it is fun to think about the different options you can choose from regarding heating and cooling. Radiant heating set under the flooring of a home is a very unique and cozy way of warming your house. There are many benefits to this type of heating, and there are several things you need to know if you are considering it for your new home construction:
How it Works
Radiant heating is generated from plastic tubing that is laid in the foundation under your flooring. Hot water, heated by propane, electric, or your chosen heating option, runs through these tubes and creates warmth under the floor. The heat then rises naturally to heat the home from the bottom up.
Benefits of Radiant Heating
There are a variety of benefits to this type of heating source. When the weather is very cold and you have bare floors, having the radiant heating under your feet is very satisfying. It is best for homes with tiled or wood floors, as these floors can be very cold in the winter without additional rugs or other floor coverings.
Radiant heating can be installed in almost any type of flooring. It is most commonly installed into the home's foundation, but you can also have it clipped into a raised wood foundation.
Disadvantages of Radiant Heating
The primary disadvantage of radiant heating is the expense. It can be more costly to install radiant heating over traditional heating forms due to the extra labor as well as the costs of materials. It can also be more difficult to find an HVAC technician to install this type of heating, as it tends to require specialized training that not everyone has.
It is also not ideal for homes with wall-to-wall carpeting. The padding under the carpet acts as a barrier and will not allow the heat up through the floor. You also will need to have a traditional HVAC system or other resources for air conditioning.
Radiant heating is fantastic for new home constructions, as it is best to have it installed before the home is built. This form of heating is perfect for those who suffer from achy muscles or joints during the cold months. If radiant heating is in your home plans, you need to let your contractor know well in advance. The specialized HVAC contractor will need to correspond with your general contractor to install the system before the foundation is poured.
To learn more, contact a company like Always Ready Repair.
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