Under Floor Heating

Whereas central heating has been around for many years in the form of radiators, technological advancements have led to under floor heating becoming available to home owners. Such heating devices are often used instead of radiators; these systems can provide heating and cooling. Under floor heating uses space which is not often used which therefore means wall space which radiators usually occupy is left free. Not only this but some people find radiators unattractive and therefore do not wish to have these on the walls of their homes. Under floor heating uses conduction, radiation and convection in order to produce the heat used within the flooring.
There are two different forms of under floor heating which are being used in modern day properties; these include electric systems and hydronic systems. The electric systems use electric resistence elements and the hydronic systems use heated flowing fluid pipes. These systems are often added to new properties, they are becoming increasingly popular within blocks of luxury flats. Not only this, but the systems can also be added to homes which are already constructed, although this may be of considerable expense.
Hydronic systems either use water or a mixed solution to transfer water in a closed loop between the boiler and the floor. The pipes which are used within these systems are usually made from polyethylene. Older systems which were early under floor heating systems may have used copper or steel pipe. These systems are from easy to fit and therefore required a highly experienced and qualified person to fit them. This is a specialist industry and therefore there are not a large amount of companys offering professional services in this area.
Many modern under floor heating systems use electric systems which used electrical heating elements including wires, pre-formed cable mats, bronze films and carbon films. These systems are suitable with any kind of flooring and are very popular with people who have carpet floors. The majority of under floor systems installed are used on wooden, laminate or tiled floors. These systems are easier to install than hydronic systems on a small scale, although in a large area a skilled engineer may be required.
Many people choose to have under floor heating installed as it can help to improve the air quality within the building. Floor heating establishes temperatures which are not as suitable for growth of mould, bacteria, viruses or dust mites.
Some under floor heating systems are also installed as they are seen as producing sustainable energy, especially in large spaces. The systems use low temperatures when heating and high temperatures when cooling, especially when solar thermal systems are used. People wishing to have under floor heating systems on there home are likely to pay a price of around 450 per square meter including VAT. Those people having such systems installed should use a professional organisation and also research this company before hiring them. Asking for previous clients names or contact details in order to gather information is not unusual and is also advised to potential customers.