All About Hydronic Floor Heating

Hydronic floor heating is based on the principles of traditional radiator heating units. It offers an efficient and cost-effective heating solution. Hydronic Floor heating gives a more consistent result than modern forced-air HVAC systems.

Understanding The Hydronic Floor Heating Technology

Hydronic floor heating uses PEX tubing, which has the advantage of being very flexible. Lengths of PEX tubing are snaked thought the room with the beginning and end attached to a manifold. Since the floor will be sealed, there cannot be any joints in the tubing. Each tube is spaced nine inches from each other and then they are held together with specially shaped staples. Concrete and Gyprete then cover the tubing and sub-floor to provide a solid seal.

Whether the system is running or not, these materials will hold heat well and allow it to continuously radiate evenly through the system. To finish the floor, ceramic tiles are typically used to lock in additional heat. The manifold of the system helps distribute water evenly between the lengths of the PEX tubing and also helps vent the system. Opposite the manifold, there is a dedicated water heater, or boiler, affixed with a circulating pump to pull water into the system and then return it to the bottom of the boiler to reheat.

Advantages of Hydronic Floor Heating

Radiant floor heating systems can be a valuable asset. The heat radiates from the floor itself and it doesn’t require any vents. This means there are no oddly placed vents that can be unflattering. Unlike forced air systems, which tend to spread allergens throughout the room, Hydronic floor heating are not only more efficient but they are safer for you as well. They are 10 to 30 per cent more efficient than standard HVAC systems and will maintain consistent warmth for you home even after a power outage.

Things to Consider About Hydronic Floor Heating

These systems are not without their flaws. The biggest problem is that you’re more restricted on floor coverings. Carpets can actually block the heat, for example. You will also have a longer wait time when the system is first turned on and can increase the humidity of your rooms near the floor. The biggest headaches, however, happen during installation. You will need a contractor who’s trained to install the system due to its special requirements. They can also get very complicated if you’re installing into an existing floor. Any repairs will likewise be rather complicated and potentially expensive, although any necessary repairs to the submerged portions are very rare.

Hydronic Floor Heating For Your Home

Experts in the heating and cooling industry for over 15 years, Efficient Pure Plumbing can install hydronic floor heating in your existing floors. For more information about how hydronic heating could work for your home, call us on 03 9133 8707 or use our contact form.