Most Popular Methods of Heating Radiant Floors

Water and Electric

Radiant floor heating panels are heated in one of three ways:

  • Electrical circuits
  • Water pipes (hydronic)
  • Air ducts embedded in the panel

Air is seldom used.

Electric panels have electricity as their sole utility. Electric systems are less expensive up-front than hydronic systems. If you are in an area where electricity is inexpensive, electric could be the way to go.

Water can be heated by almost any utility such as natural gas, propane, oil, electricity, wood or solar.

According to the Radiant Panel Association, your choice will most likely depend on the energy costs of the available utility and the size of the project.

A 1998 survey by the RPA reported data on over 7.5 million square feet of radiant heating installations. 99.4% were hydronic and .6% were electric installations.

Temperature changes of water can be accurately controlled and measured, so there is less "over-shooting" of thermostat settings and less wasted heat.

Hydronic systems are clearly the system of choice.

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