hydronic heat“163″ />Hydronic heat systems can be installed with grooved sub floor boards and pre-manufactured panels. These are normally installed on an existing sub floor or slab – the pre-manufactured panels can also be used as the structural sub floor.

Aluminum heat transfer plates help these systems heat rapidly and spread the heat evenly. Typical spacing for hydronic heat in a grooved sub floor is 12″ on center, but may vary with design.

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Parhydronic heathydronic heat – basics series, where we briefly give an overview of several common methydronic heating systemdronic heating system.

A hydronic suspended system is similar to a staple-up system, however the tubing is not attached directly to the sub floor.  It may be stapled to the sides of the joists or suspended from the sub floor.

This installation method is often used in retrofits – including projects where access from below is limited.  Hanging systems generally run at a higher operating temperature and because they heat the joist cavity – the heat above is very even.

The materials costs are normally low – but this can be a labor intensive way to install hydronic heat.

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We’re creatures of comfort – I know, it’s a cliche` – but it’s true.  We spend a lot of time, effort and energy trying to get – and stay – comfortable.  Most of us can tell when we’re comfortable and when we’re not, but few of us ever think about why.

The key concept is called thermal comfort.  Basically, we’re comfortable when our bodies are releasing heat at the same rate as we produce it. Our bodies transfer heat in four different ways.

1) Evaporation
2) Convection
3) Conduction
4) Radiation or radiant

Interestingly enough, if you were to chart the human thermal comfort requirements and compare that curve to the output of various heating solutions (like forced-air, radiators, baseboards and in-floor hydronic heat) you’d find that the output of a radiant heating system is an almost identical match to our thermal comfort curve.

Simple enough, but why would I want radiant heat?

If you’re concerned about your indoor environment – there’s no dust and no allergens blowing around with in-floor hydronic heat.

In-floor radiant heat is a virtually slient heating system

Eliminate cold areas, drafts and uneven heat distribution.

Comfort – Imagine warm floors on a cold morning, there’s nothing else like it.

Energy efficiency – Whether you’re “building green” or trying to reduce your “carbon footprint,” radiant is an effective way to reduce your energy consumption without sacrificing comfort.

Unsurpassed zone flexibility – that’s right, hydronic heat offers precise thermostat control for different areas of your home.

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