Underfloor heating: An alternative solution

We all know that hot air rises, so why would air-heating be the most effective way to evenly warm a room? The truth is it's not. Floor heating is a great alternative for anyone who is either building or renovating, and with solar options available, it's even nicer on the planet.

Floor heating: How does it work?

There are two main kinds of floor heating: electric or water heated by a solar, gas or electric boiler. If you're laying a concrete slab, either kind of floor heating will be laid before the concrete is, so that the water pipes or electric cables lay within the slab. They heat the slab, creating an even and efficient heat that radiates from the ground up. If your floor slab is already laid, both kinds of heating can be also laid under carpet (with a plywood slab between), or underneath a floating floor.

How efficient is floor heating?

Floor heating is very efficient, simply because it heats where you need it most - the bottom of the room. In fact, in Western Europe, over 50 percent of new construction uses radiant floor heating, which speaks volumes for the system.

If you want the most efficient of all floor heating systems, though, then solar would come in at number 1. Polyethylene pipe is laid within the slab and attached to a boiler which is heated by a series of solar panels. The system usually has a back up of gas or electricity for night time, or when the solar system needs a boost.

Floor heating benefits

Floor heating is the number one choice for those who suffer from allergies or asthma. Because it radiates heat naturally and is not blowing hot, dry air into the room, there are fewer particles spinning through the air. It also doesn't dry out a room like a reverse cycle air conditioner can.

Of course one of the main benefits is its aesthetics. Because everything is under the floor, it's out of sight. Thermostat controls make it easy to adjust temperatures, and it's completely safe.