How to Install a Radiant Floor Heating System
Note: for this activity, we are assuming you are building/renovating your home and that your floors have already been removed.
The first thing to do is decide which type of heating system works for you. Hydraulic floors are evenly heated and relatively easy for a contractor to install, but you run the risk of potential breaks in the line and flooding (admittedly, the risk for this is low, but possible). Also, you will need to install a boiler with a temperature control somewhere in your home (possibly the basement or garage) to regulate the water.
The second option you have is electrical. First, a contractor removes the flooring that is in place, exposing the solid under-floor. Then a series of cables is laid in a curving grid-like system across the floor, usually held up by a thin-but-strong concrete pad.
Please note, for the actual electrical work you need to consult a contractor. This guide covers the laying of the cable, not any alterations to it.
Once you have your system chosen (we’ll assume you went electrical), you will need to measure out the area where the grid will go and lay your concrete grid accordingly. Whether you are laying grid, mesh or anything else that contains electrical cable, do not cut the cable- only cut the material holding it in place.
Once the grid is in place, you will want to test the wire to make sure there are no brakes in it. Use a circuit tester or have your electrical contractor take a look before advancing.
Once the line is determined to be sound, lay a thin layer of thin-set mortar and let dry. Once dry, you can run your cables to the thermostat that will be controlling the floor. Also, once everything is in proper working order, you can lay your tile, wood, or insulation and carpet.
Now, the cost. According to www.warmlyyours.com If you have a 30 square foot bathroom and use radiant floor heating to heat at least 50% of it continually, you’re looking at a little less than a quarter a day in operating costs. Considering this is an accepted practice for heating homes even in the winter, that’s not a bad operating cost at all.
What about installation costs? If you chose to hire a contractor, you are looking at roughly $300-$600 for a standard room installation. Considering you can probably do the majority of the work yourself at a cost of $250-$350, this isn’t unreasonable, but still, it’s always nice to have options.
Whatever you choose, radiant floor heating will prove to be a safe, warm and friendly way to keep you and yours warm this winter.
Information for this article was taken from the following sites:
