In-floor heating: it's been around since ancient times but, given modern advances, is seeing a explosion in popularity. For those who've experienced it, it's easy to understand why. So what's all the fuss about? Here are 5 reasons to love radiant in-floor heating:
1. Efficiency
One of the biggest advantages of in-floor heating systems are their efficiency. In fact, in-floor heating systems can be 30% more efficient than traditional forced-air heating systems. How?
Well, these systems, particularly those that use hot water as their heat source, require very little electricity to operate. And, because there is no ductwork for heat to get lost in, less heat is required to warm your home. This adds up to big savings on your utility bills.
2. Consistent Comfort
Your thermostat reads 72, but you can't watch television or read a book without wearing a sweatshirt and wool socks. Sound familiar? If so, you're not alone; uneven heat distribution is a common issue with conventional home heating systems. The radiant heat technology used by in-floor systems, on the other hand, virtually eliminates this problem by taking full advantage of the fact that warm air rises. When the system is turned on, the tubing beneath your floor begins to heat up. The warm energy created is then transferred upward, through the floor and into the room in all directions. On its way up, it also warms any objects it encounters, such as furniture and walls. This means that heat is evenly distributed throughout the room, making for a more consistent, natural-feeling temperature. So feel free to ditch the extra socks and get comfortable.
3. Invisible & Silent
Another great benefit of in-floor heating systems is that they are completely hidden from view. Not only does this make for great aesthetics, since you no longer have to position your furniture to avoid bulky radiators and dirty vents, you can truly make the most of the square footage in each of your home's rooms. Plus, the days of listening to the rattles and whirs associated with traditional home heating systems are over: in-floor systems are completely silent!
4. Hypoallergenic
In-floor heating systems don't rely on ducts and vents, therefore, allergens like dust, pollen, and dander aren't being blown and circulated around your home. This means that, for allergy sufferers, in-floor heating can drastically improve your quality of life.
5. No More Cold Floors
Instead of having to skip across an icy winter floor, with in-floor heating, you can stroll to the refrigerator for your midnight snack, no slippers required. Need we say more?