Radiant heating has been around for a while, but with recent improvements to products, it has gained a great deal of popularity over the last few years. Homeowners have a couple of choices when it comes to radiant heating, as we’ll explain further below, but one of the most important aspects of any radiant system is correct installation. While DIY shows may make radiant heating installation look simple, it requires the expertise and knowledge of a specialist. Lifeline Plumbing has the trained and certified technicians who can perform your radiant heat installation in Elgin, so call us today!

Types of Radiant Systems

There are two main types of radiant systems: electric and hydronic (hot water or steam). But there are also choices as to placement of your radiant heating: radiant floor heating or radiant panels. First we’ll take a look at radiant floor heating:

• Hydronic radiant floor heating – with a hydronic radiant floor system, flexible, durable PEX tubing is installed beneath your flooring. A boiler heats the water and pushes it through piping to the tubing, where the heat from the steam or hot water is released.

• Electric radiant floor heating – electric radiant floor heating can be installed in a few ways. One way is via a “wet” installation in which electric cable is laid into wet cement that, when dry, forms a radiant slab. Electric cables can also be laid in a pattern on subflooring, or electrically-conductive plastic matting that contains electric cables can be installed under flooring or on top of subflooring.

Radiant Panels

Radiant panels are typically installed in walls and ceilings, offering you another location for radiant heating installation. Radiant panels are usually made of aluminum, and can have either hot water or electric cables provide the heat. Because of the risk of leaks, electric cables are used more often. Radiant panels heat quickly but have a low heat capacity.

Benefits of Radiant Heating

Here are some reasons why you may want to choose radiant heating for your home:

• Comfortable, even heat – the heat from a radiant system is gradual as compared to that of a forced-air system, making it more comfortable for some people.

• Good for allergy sufferers – there is no circulating dust with a radiant system, which can be very helpful for those with allergies.

• Easily zoned – radiant systems can be easily zoned, helping you to enjoy more customized comfort.

If you are considering the installation of a radiant heat system in Elgin, Lifeline Plumbing has the trained specialists who can help you from start to finish. Contact us today!