DIY Radiant Heat

DIY radiant floor heating is an energy saving method to heat your home and save money on installation as well. Heat is channeled in the floor to provide warmth for the whole house. Infrared radiation moves by convection, and the heat rises from the floor with the natural propagation of heat waves and air movement. Not only does radiant floor heating help reduce allergies because less air is moved around, but efficiency is increased as heat from the air duct systems doesn't leak out en route to its destination.

Two different types of radiant floor heating are common nowadays: hydronic (water) and electric. It depends on the circumstances and money available on which one makes the most sense for you.

Heated water or hydronic systems use hot water to circulate the warmth. The heated water radiant floor heating is generally the most effective and cost efficient radiant floor heating to use. The heated water is circulated through piping or tubing placed under the floor or in between joists. The piping system is attached to a boiler that is used to heat the water. You can utilize gas, wood, or solar power to heat the water before circulation.

Electric radiant floors are made of a mat placed under the floor or with electric cables. This is quite often placed over concrete. In this case, the system can actually store heat to further lower heating bills. In general, electricity can cost more than other utilities, but with storing heat in a large area of cement the heating system can yield a net gain.

Starting out, it seems like diy radiant heat is extremely costly. Initial outlay will usually be recovered and more in a fairly short period of time. The cost will depend on the total area to heat and the method chosen. Many homeowners and do it yourselfers will use in floor heat for renovations and upgrades, but it is easiest of course to install at the time of initial construction.

In order to do your own installation, you will need to have knowledge in plumbing for the hydronic floor heat. There will be a lot of PEX piping to install, and connections at the water pmp and boiler or heater. For all types of installation you will need to know how to install your electrical connections, or be able to hire a professional electrician to do it for you after you have placed the rest of the components.

All in all, in floor radiant heating is more cost effective and efficient than forced air heating. It also provides a gentler and more pervasive heat in the home, making it seem warmer and cosier.