Adding a Heating Source to Your Home is Easier than You Think

October 10, 2008 00:10 AM  BY  STACEY BARRUS

Have you ever gone on a ski vacation for the weekend and stayed at a little ski lodge? A lot of the times, they’ll have a huge fireplace in the main room with smaller bedrooms up in the loft area or second-story. But the problem is that when you’re in the main room with the roaring fire, you’re often overwhelmed by the heat and retreat to the bedroom, where it’s far chillier. You see, many vacation or weekend homes weren’t built with air conditioning ducts with which to deliver the heat to the different rooms of the house. However, there is a solution to adding heating to homes that have not been built for traditional forced air systems: radiant heaters.

As opposed to warm air systems (such as a forced air unit heaters), radiant heaters deliver the source of heat to the floor level, not the ceiling. Radiant heaters or radiant energy is the oldest form of heating used to provide comfort and is the basis for all heating systems.

Additionally, radiant heaters also offer more comfort than forced air heating by heating the atmosphere from the ground up. Since heat rises, the heat will be more evenly distributed, providing a much more comfortable atmosphere.

Radiant Heaters Tip: Radiant energy is totally pure radiation and is absorbed by an object without physical contact with the heat source or by heating the surrounding air, as is the case with convective, forced air systems.


  Radiant Heat Information  

AddThis Feed Button






Learn About the Options

November 29, 2008 00:11 AM  BY  STACEY BARRUS

With the current housing market being so unpredictable, we’re seeing an increasing number of homeowners are opting to stay put in their homes, rather than buy a new home. They find that one way to make their current home a better fit for them is to remodel the kitchen or bathroom, or upgrade the home’s heating systems. While there isn’t a single heating system out there that is an ideal fit for every project, there is an ideal system for every project. Warmzone.com can provide you with the heating systems you desire, as well as consult with you on which systems would be the best fit for your project.

Hydronic under floor heating systems are some of the most popular forms of radiant heat. In the most recent hydronic heating systems, PEX radiant tubing has been installed in a concrete mass called Gypsum Concrete or “Gypcrete.” This method of heating system installation works very well in most applications, but there have been developments in the installation process of hydronic under floor heating that make it easier to install for certain situations. This new development is known as a low-mass or modular board underlayment system. Rather than embedding the hot water tubing in concrete, the PEX tubing is laid in the grooves of pre-cut wood panels. This new method is ideal for remodeling and most new construction projects.

Heating System Tip: The hydronic under-floor heating system was first used by the Romans; there have obviously been significant developments since that time.

 


  Radiant Heat Information  

AddThis Feed Button






The Joys of Radiant Heat

April 01, 2010 00:04 AM  BY  BENSON RICKS

Radiant Snow Melting and Floor Heating Systems Rock Our World

Radiant heated drivewayIt’s not something you might think of every day but radiant snow melting systems are certainly something you’ll wish you had at certain times of the year. Automated snow melting systems have proven critical in many parts of the country – for both commercial and residential applications. How much easier can it get than to pull into a snowless driveway after a full day of snow fall? Or better yet, how about waking up to a snow covered landscape and a clear driveway?

From heated driveways and roof ice melting systems to cozy heated floors, radiant heating has provided new levels of convenience, comfort and safety in the last few years. And not only do you have a choice nowadays to install these conveniences when building a home or commercial project, but existing driveways and floors can be retrofitted with electric radiant heating systems. The technology and products have advanced to the point where radiant heat offers reliable, fully automated, maintenance-free performance. You owe it to yourself to explore the many snow melting and floor heating options.


  Radiant Heat Information  

AddThis Feed Button






Staying Warm...and Green!

December 25, 2008 00:12 AM  BY  STACEY BARRUS

For anyone who is looking for a great way to save energy, and maximize comfort, then radiant heaters may be the ideal solution. Installing radiant heaters in a home under construction or in an existing home is proven to cut heating costs. It works by putting water lines in the home’s concrete floors or under existing floors and running hot water through them. Radiant heaters help to keep the whole house at a more constant temperature. In this way, our regular heaters don’t have to do as much to keep things warm and toasty during the winter.

You’ll find that switching to Radiant heaters will not only help save energy and lower heating costs, but it will certainly add to comfort as well. That is because it put the heat at our feet, which are generally cold, and offers cooler air near head level, where we are generally a little warmer.

Many times, what first springs to mind when people think of eco-friendly energy and heating is solar power. While solar panels are expensive, there are other eco-friendly ways to cut your power bill. In fact, energy savings can be found right beneath your feet: radiant heaters.

Radiant Heaters Tip: It is reported that many people waste a lot of energy by not sealing cracks, doors and windows; checking to make sure a home’s insulation is in good shape and replacing it if it’s not is another good way to stop energy waste.


  Radiant Heat Information  

AddThis Feed Button






Builder Uses Radiant Heaters to Build Healthy Homes

December 13, 2008 00:12 AM  BY  STACEY BARRUS

Recently John Thiffault of Carriage Lane Homes was recognized by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation for building homes that maximize health and efficiency.So what is it about Thiffault’s homes that set them apart from other homes, and make them safer and more efficient?Well, Radiant Heaters are one way.

Health Benefits. Radiant heaters improve the air quality, which is important, especially for anyone who suffers from either dust allergies or asthma. The heated towel rails provide ample heat alleviating a breeding ground for germs to multiply not to mention the added benefit of not having change filters or clean heat ducts.

Health experts also claim that radiant heaters can help in eliminating dust mites that live in our homes, and since dust mites love a warm moist environment, towel heaters aid in maintaining a consistent room temperature and keep it moisture free. Furthermore, mold and mildew are also caused from excessive moisture especially in bathrooms with insufficient ventilation.By placing radiant heaters or a radiant heat towel rack in the bathroom you can combat the spread of germs for only pennies a day.

Efficiency. Radiant heaters are the most efficient form of heat available. Significantly less operating time is required to maintain the desired warmth compared to furnaces and other methods of heating keeping operational costs to a minimum. High efficiency boilers or electric radiant floor systems makes radiant heat one of your most efficient ways to heat your home. Coupled with a well insulated home these systems can quickly warm your home and then shut down or wait idle for long periods of time before being called upon by the thermostat to operate.


  Radiant Heat Information  

AddThis Feed Button






The Myths of Low Voltage versus Line Voltage Radiant Systems

November 06, 2008 00:11 AM  BY  WARMZONE

There has been much debate over low voltage radiant systems versus line voltage radiant systems as radiant heat gains popularity in North America. The aim of this article is to dispel some of the myths surrounding the different kinds of systems.

Myth 1: Low voltage radiant systems are safer than line voltage.

Low voltage is low, so it makes sense that it’s safer, right? While this makes perfect sense initially, we have to take a closer look to find out the real answer. If your definition of safe is the chances of being hurt by voltage during installation, low voltage will give you a bit of a shock, but won’t cause lasting damage. The real question we should be asking is how durable is the cable against damage and how well is the cable insulated. Both line and low voltage snow melting systems are embedded in 4 inches of concrete, asphalt, or under pavers. When installed properly the embedded systems are not exposed and harmful. Some low voltage heating wires are NOT designed for embedment. These have only a thin layer of plastic and a heating element that is THHN/THWN wire. This wire is intended for interior use NOT in concrete, asphalt, or under pavers. Low voltage wires do not have ground fault protection, so electrical leakage can go undetected.

In contrast, line voltage obviously has higher voltage, which is why line voltage cables are built to withstand wear and tear, and are much more difficult to damage. If you do manage to damage a line voltage cable, don’t worry! Line voltage systems are equipped with ground fault protection (GFEP) breakers with a 30 milliamp trip. Which means the system will automatically shut off when it has reached beyond allowable leakage levels. What does this mean? Well for one you don’t need to worry about bodily harm, but you also don’t need to worry about potential fire hazard from a damaged cable. The bottom line: both line voltage and low voltage systems are safe to use.

Myth 2: Low voltage radiant systems cost less to run than a line voltage system.

It is true that low voltage radiant systems consume a lower amount of power, but this doesn’t mean it is less costly to run. Low voltage systems can actually be more expensive to operate because these systems generally produce 20 watts/sq ft (which is below ASHRAE standards). By producing less heat per square foot, it takes longer to heat the same area, thus increasing the cost and the time it takes to melt. Because of the decreased heat output, during heavier snow falls low voltage systems struggle to keep up with the snowfall, and have to remain on much longer. For this reason, ASHRAE has set forth watt standards for snow melting.

Line voltage systems are designed specifically for the environment in which they will be operating. These systems are made to produce the necessary watts (that meet ASHRAE standards) to melt snow in the most efficient time possible.

Zmesh installation beneath hardwood flooringSome low voltage systems on the market have some distinct advantages over line voltage. Zmesh is low voltage, but does not rely on heat cables to generate heat. Instead it is constructed of a unique thin mesh that requires no embedding in thinset and can be installed directly under carpet pad, hardwood and even for use on your roof for snow and ice melting. The biggest advantage of Zmesh is that you can hammer nails into it without worry of damage!

Myth 3: Low voltage systems are easier to repair.

Both line voltage and low voltage cables are easy to repair. Simply remove the bad section of cable, add in a splice kit, cover it back over with whatever surface it’s in, and the system should operate as normal. You do not have to replace the entire cable or rip out the entire surface, only the area that is damaged. The location of the break can be identified by using devices such as the DEVItrace from Danfoss or a TDR, which uses radio frequencies and a “wand” to locate the damaged section of cable.

Myth 4: Low Voltage systems are more efficient.

Low voltage systems are NOT more efficient. Since these systems have a much lower output of heat per square foot; they take much longer to melt snow, especially during heavy snow storms and probably will not be able to keep up with the demand. Further increasing their inefficiencies, low voltage systems must have the electricity pass through a transformer and very thick power leads (2 gauge), which causes voltage to drop as it travels distance before reaching the heating element. Line voltage cables have the energy to go directly into heating, without the loss of power. Overall, both line and low voltage systems are more efficient than hydronic snow melting.

Myth 5: Low voltage systems offer a better warranty.

Some low voltage warranties are very deceiving. They boast of a 25 year warranty period, but when examined closer it is found that the 25 year warranty only covers the heating wire. As discussed earlier these heating wires are actually THHN or THWN, which can be purchased relatively cheaply at any hardware store.

Warmzone’s line voltage cable manufacturer’s warranty (Danfoss) covers up five times the cost of the original system which is intended to cover the cost and time involved in making repairs, not just the actual heating element itself.

Myth 6: Both systems provide sufficient heat.

Low voltage systems in most snow melting applications do not meet the ASHRAE standards. The minimum watts per square foot ASHRAE requires in North America is 32 watts per square foot. Popular low voltage systems on average are designed to produce approximately 20 watts per square foot and with extremely tight spacing will max out at 30, still below the standards ASHRAE has set forth.

Line voltage systems are designed specifically for the environment in which they will be operating. These systems are made to produce the necessary watts (that meet ASHRAE standards) to melt snow in the most efficient time possible.

Myth 7: Both systems are UL Approved.

Most low voltage snow melting systems are not UL listed. Warmzone’s line voltage systems are UL tested and approved.

SYSTEM WEAKNESSES

  • THHN/THWN wire was not designed for concrete embedding. The outer jacket is soft and easily cut which will shorten its life.
  • Low heat output – Does not satisfy ASHRAE requirements.
  • Bulky and costly controls (transformer and control box are 100 lbs per 200 square foot zone).
  • Warranty - only covers THHN/THWN wire. Control box is 1 year, transformer is 5 years.
  • Slow to install - the transformer and control box are complicated and time consuming to install.
  • Noise – transformers emit noise and location of them must be considered.
  • Price – low-voltage systems are typically double the price of a comparable line –voltage system.

As radiant heating systems have gained popularity, a lot of fly-by-night manufacturers are trying to cash in on the recent boom. This sparked ASHRAE to come out with standards for radiant snow melting systems to prevent abuse from manufacturers. Most low voltage radiant snow melting systems don’t meet the ASHRAE standards for quality and efficiency. Unfortunately, not all consumers are aware of standards in the radiant industry and purchase faulty products unwittingly and end up with negativity towards radiant heating in general. Rest assured there are plenty of efficient radiant systems that will run smoothly for decades without needing any maintenance. Make sure to do thorough research before purchasing any products, which means checking for proper safety certifications and standards, and you won't regret it.  


  Radiant Heat Information  

AddThis Feed Button






Radiant Heaters

November 11, 2007 00:11 AM  BY  WARMZONE

Radiant heaters, as opposed to warm air systems (such as a forced air unit heaters), deliver the source of heat to the floor level, not the ceiling. And since warm air rises, heating the floors proves to be the most efficient means of heating living areas.

Radiant heaters or radiant energy is the oldest form of heating used to provide comfort and is the basis for all heating systems. Radiant energy is totally pure radiation and is absorbed by an object without physical contact with the heat source or by heating the surrounding air, as is the case with convective, forced air systems.

Under floor heaters were first used by the Romans. Initially the preserve of the rich, under floor heating became increasingly commonplace in public buildings and villas, particularly in the colder regions of the Roman Empire. The Roman system was based on hypocausts, comprising ducts that underlay the floor (itself built on raised brick piles) and flues that were built into walls. Hot air or steam from fires circulated up through this system, warming the floor and walls, with heat passing into the rooms.

More specifically, the floor was laid out as series of concrete slabs acting as radiant heaters supported by columns of layered tiles, with a furnace at the bottom of one exterior wall. By placing the fire here, the draught would take the radiant heat under the floor, and up through the walls to radiant heater chimneys located in the corners of the room.

Today we recognize the brilliance of the Romans and Koreans as early adopters of radiant heating, as the technology is still a desired method for delivering comfortable and efficient heat in our homes. Now we have radiant heaters using electric resistance cables that are constructed of highly rated materials and feature manufacturer warranties of up to 25 years.

 

About Warmzone
Warmzone provides consumers with energy-efficient, radiant heating solutions for homes and businesses. Based in Salt Lake City, Utah, Warmzone's electricians and radiant heat experts will help you determine the best radiant heating solution, ranging from electric heated floors to large commercial snow and ice melt projects. Send us a plan or drawings and we'll be happy to provide you with a FREE estimate and options for your roof heating and ice melting project.


  Radiant Heat Information  

AddThis Feed Button






Too Many Choices for Home Heating Systems

December 26, 2008 00:12 AM  BY  STACEY BARRUS

If you’ve been researching home heating systems, chances are your head is spinning right about now.  It’s no wonder! The number of types of radiant heaters available for residences or businesses could make anyone dizzy in no time at all. There’s really a lot of selection for homeowners to choose from. Today we’ll discuss the electric cable heating system kind of radiant heaters. Electric cable heating systems are gaining popularity in as radiant heaters and are ideal for heating smaller areas (10-300 square feet) like bathrooms, kitchens, and sun rooms. These systems are comprised of a thermostat and a heating cable. On some systems, the cable is be shipped as a large spool of cable. These systems are oftentimes less expensive, and give you the ability to space the cable how you want and customize a layout that will heat every square inch of your floor. Other systems have the cable attached to a plastic mesh or tape to create a mat to maintain its proper spacing.

Every available cable system is equally effective, so when determining which radiant heater system to purchase, you should look at the warranty of the product, along with the ease of installation. Some cables must be embedded in a separate layer of concrete or mortar, whereas other systems can simply be installed in the thinset.

Radiant Heaters Tip: When heating smaller areas with a radiant heater, it is next to impossible to beat the simplicity and price of an electric cable heating system. 


  Radiant Heat Information  

AddThis Feed Button






Radiant Heat for Custom Applications

January 13, 2010 00:01 AM  BY  AMY MORBY

Why Settle When you can Customize?

Finding a Radiant Heating Solution as Unique as You Are

As temperatures plummet and heat bills skyrocket, consumers everywhere are turning to radiant heating systems. As the most affordable and customizable option out there, radiant heating is quickly making a name for itself as a titan in the heating market.

So radiant heat is the latest and greatest, but what exactly is so great about it and what can it do for you? One word: customization.

When it comes to radiant heating, the possibilities are endless. No matter what you want or where you want it, Warmzone can design a radiant heating system completely customized for your lifestyle, and it’s as easy as 1,2,3.

Radiant heated driveway with brick pavers. 1. Choose

The first step of your radiant heating revolution is choosing the type of radiant heat you want.

There’s no limit to what radiant heating can do. Whether you’re looking to warm up your home or prevent snow and ice buildup on your property, there’s a radiant heating option that’s sure to fit your needs.

Indoor Radiant Heating
Turn any room into a cozy paradise with radiant floor heating. Radiant heating can go under virtually any surface, including tile, carpet, wood, etc. Put it in your bathroom, your kitchen, your living room—anywhere you need heat. Each room, or zone, can be controlled with its own thermostat. Given the flexibility and outstanding effectiveness of radiant heated floors, it is the most affordable way to keep your house perfectly warm without racking up the electricity bill.

Outdoor Radiant Heating
You can also enjoy the benefits of radiant heating outdoors. Radiant snow melting systems keep your property safe by preventing snow and ice buildup. You can choose one or all of the following options to make your life a little easier in the harsh winter months:

2. Design

Once you decide which radiant heating options are right for you, the Warmzone team will help you design a customized plan of action. We realize that your radiant heating system isn’t the same as the next customer’s, so we work diligently with you to come up with a radiant heating system tailor made to your needs.

CAD of radiant heated floor system.Once we assess your project’s requirements, our team will design a custom CAD drawing of your radiant heating system telling you exactly what you get, where you’ll get it, and how much it will cost you. We’ll keep you involved in every step of the process to make sure that your custom radiant heating system exceeds your expectations.

When we’ve got your customized radiant heating system designed, we’ll make sure you have everything you need for a quick and easy installation. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, we’ve got a list of contractors ready to bring your radiant heating plans to fruition.

3. Enjoy

Because we help you with the planning and design process, you’re only job is to sit back, relax, and enjoy your custom radiant heating solution. Let your heated floors warm your home evenly and efficiently. Sit back and watch from the warmth of your living room as your radiant heated driveway does the shoveling for you. And sleep in peace knowing that your gutters and pipes are safe from nasty and potentially devastating snow and ice buildup.

Why settle for an out of the box heating solution? Let us help you customize a radiant heating system that meets your needs, fits your budget, and keeps you and your family warm and safe. 


  Radiant Heat Information  

AddThis Feed Button






What's Your Plan This Winter

October 26, 2008 00:10 AM  BY  STACEY BARRUS

Winter weather is on the way. Start thinking about heating system solutions for the coming winter months or spend the season shivering and wishing you’d planned ahead. Leaving decisions like this to the last moment (for example, when your furnace up and dies in the middle of a brutal Nor’easter) causes unnecessary stress, expense, and, most obviously, a freezing cold house.

Whether you are building a new home from the ground up, preparing to replace your heating systems are using electricity instead of natural gas or heating oil. Not only does this cut down on heating costs, but it is also more efficient and eco-friendly as well. Radiant heating systems are quickly replacing traditional furnaces.

Heating Systems Tip: Choosing the best heating systems for a new home or to add supplemental heat to a cold spot in your home now takes a little homework. The radiant consultants and designers at Warmzone have been trained in all of the latest heating systems to properly assess your project and prescribe a system that will add value to your home within your budget.

 


  Radiant Heat Information  

AddThis Feed Button