Can Having Heating Floors Provide Energy Savings?

All homeowners are interested in saving money and according to the United States Department of Energy, heated flooring is one of the best ways to accomplish your energy saving goals.

How Heated Floors Work:

Underfloor heating systems heat your dwelling using thermal radiation. Such systems do not need fans or blowers to move the heated air. Rather, the heat production is accomplished through electrical coils or liquid filled tubing, which is placed beneath the floor.

Some modern homes are manufactured with heated flooring, but this type of system can also be added to your dwelling to replace its current system. The installation is not a do-it-yourself project, however, as only professionals are qualified to install underfloor heating.

Installation:

Both wet and dry procedures are used to install heated flooring. With a wet installation, several thin layers of concrete or gypsum are poured over coils or tubing. The topcoat of concrete or gypsum eventually becomes the home’s subfloor. The floor covering of your choice is then installed over the top.

Dry installation typically involves the use of electric cables over which an extra layer of wood is installed. This type of installation is easier than wet installation, but still requires the services of a professional. Thermostats are also placed in each room to maintain separate heat levels, which also substantially lowers long-term energy costs.

Energy Savings and Other Benefits:

Underfloor heating is gaining popularity in the United States as well as other areas of the world because of the benefits it offers to homeowners, such as significant energy savings. Additionally, it is visually appealing and may save space, depending on your home’s former system.

According to the World Health Organization, heated flooring may also be advantageous for those suffering from allergies or asthma, as this type of system helps eliminate dust mites. If you are building a new home or rethinking your current system, heated floors are a practical and cost-effective option you should consider.