subject: Understanding The Differing Types Of Underfloor Heat Systems Out There [print this page] There are many types of centralized heating systems in the market today. One of the most commonly used is the Underfloor heating system. The heat emanates from the floor and rises upwards to the ceiling of the room. The heating system gives warmth in the room to give comfort to the people inside. This is very useful in areas where the temperature is extremely cold.
This type of heating system is controlled by thermal radiation and thermal conduction. There are two ways in which heat is produced. Heat is produced by warm water system and electrical heating system. These two ways are almost the same because heating system is placed beneath floorings. However, the materials used and steps of the process in installing is very different.
In warm water system, heat is produced by hot water circulating in pipes. It is also called wet water system and is an expensive type of heating system. Although it is expensive, it saves energy up to 40% and it lasts for a long time. The pipes are made of durable materials and it requires less maintenance only. In this system, only the pumps and electric heaters require periodic check-up.
The next type-- the electric heating system, does not use hot water running in pipes. Instead, it uses carpet heaters, electric mats, and etc. To place underneath flooring to produce heat. Some heaters need to be placed in mud before it is covered with right flooring. Some are placed directly under specific flooring that is right for it.
Electric floor heating system is cheaper and easier to install than the warm water system. It can be installed as fast as half day (depending on the flooring area). It also generates heat indoors faster because the electric cables are directly under flooring. It serves as direct heat source and not heat storage like in warm water system.
Using heaters placed under the floor has its advantages and disadvantages. Its disadvantage is that flooring needs to be specific and compatible with materials to use. Example, wood flooring requires electrical heater to be placed in mud. Another disadvantage is that flooring needs to be removed if repairs are to be done. One needs to see the defective materials underneath that needs to be replaced or repaired.
Despite disadvantages, it is good to know that underfloor heating system has advantages too. It is cheaper in a way that energy is saved every now and then. It is easier to install and provides overall comfort people inside the room. Also, it cannot be damaged easily because it is safely hidden underneath floorings.
