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Easy Maintenance Tips for Underfloor Heating Systems

Have you ever walked on a floor and noticed that it feels warm and cozy? Chances are, it’s an underfloor heating system at work. Due to its cost-effectiveness and comfort, underfloor heating has become a popular choice for many homeowners and business owners. However, proper maintenance is needed to ensure its longevity and peak performance.

In this article, we’ll share with you some tips and tricks you can do today to preserve the effectiveness of your floor heating systems that should keep you warm and cozy during the cold months.

Periodic Cleaning of Your Heating Systems

Regular cleaning is always crucial to maintain your underfloor heating system’s efficiency. Over time, dirt and debris can build up on the heating pipes, leading to diminishing performance. To prevent this, using a soft-bristled brush is highly recommended to sweep the pipes and remove any accumulated dirt. Doing so ensures that the heating pipes remain clean and unobstructed, allowing for efficient heat distribution throughout your home. Regular cleaning makes a huge difference in extending the lifespan of underfloor heating systems and lets you make the most out of your money’s worth.

Always Check the Pressure

Besides cleaning, regularly checking the pressure gauge is also advised to ensure the pressure is within the optimal range. Low pressure could also lead to a decline in performance, so it’s vital to refill the system if you notice the pressure dropping below the recommended level. By keeping an eye on the pressure gauge and refilling the system as needed, you’ll be able to ensure that your underfloor heating system operates at peak efficiency and lets you avoid any potential issues in the long run.

Bleeding the System

Another maintenance task that is often overlooked is bleeding the system. Trapped air can cause cold spots on the floor, and bleeding the system can remove any air bubbles. In this part, following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully is necessary to avoid damaging the system.

Inspect for Leaking Issues

Leaking is also a prevalent issue that can affect the performance of your underfloor heating system. Regularly inspecting the system for signs of leakage, such as damp patches on the floor is always a good idea to avoid unforeseen problems in the future. If you suspect a leak, immediately seek assistance from a technician, so they identify the source of the problem and make the necessary repairs. Ignoring a leak can further damage the system and even pose safety hazards, so it’s best to stay vigilant and address issues like leakage immediately.

Routine Servicing for Maintenance

A skilled technician can inspect the system’s components, such as the boiler, valves, and pipes, to identify any issues before they escalate. To keep your underfloor heating system in excellent condition and prevent any potential breakdowns, routine servicing is highly recommended. A well-maintained underfloor heating system is more efficient and can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for costly repairs.

Consider the Compatibility of Thermostat

Choosing a compatible thermostat for your underfloor heating system is also crucial. Different thermostats are designed for specific heating systems, so make sure to choose one that is compatible with your underfloor heating system. The thermostat should also be located in a suitable location, away from any heat sources or drafts.

Seek Expert Advice On Flooring Types

The type of flooring above your underfloor heating system can also affect its performance. Certain types of flooring, such as thick carpets or vinyl, can restrict the heat flow and reduce the system’s efficiency. Therefore, consulting your underfloor heating system’s manual for advice on suitable flooring types can help ensure maximum performance.

Home Improvements

It’s crucial to be cautious while performing home improvements to prevent any damage to the underfloor heating system. Whenever you’re planning to drill into the floor or carry out any renovation work, ensure that you take the necessary precautions to avoid damaging the underfloor heating system.

If you’re not sure about how to proceed, it’s always advisable to seek guidance from a qualified technician who can help you with the necessary steps to ensure the safety of your heating system. Remember, taking care of your underfloor heating system is essential to ensure its longevity and efficient functioning, and any damage can lead to costly repairs.

Final Thoughts

Bottomline, underfloor heating systems are excellent heating solution that provides comfort and cost-effectiveness. However, proper maintenance is paramount to ensure its efficient operation and longevity. Regular cleaning, bleeding, servicing, checking the pressure and looking for leaks are all important maintenance tasks. By following these tips, you can enjoy and make the most out of the benefits of underfloor heating for many years to come.

Have you found these underfloor heating maintenance tips helpful? Leave a comment down below and share us your thoughts.

WarmUp Snow Melting Questions & Answers

WarmUp Snow Melting Questions & Answers

Warmup Snow Melting WSM

Q. How long does a snow melting system take to melt snow?

During typical Winter conditions, Warmup systems are designed to keep driveways and walkways clear of snow and ice with no waiting time.

To operate efficiently Warmup systems are designed to turn on before or at the first sign of precipitation below freezing. By anticipating a storm or sensing it quickly, Warmup systems are able to get slabs above freezing quickly to maintain constantly clear surfaces. With a warm slab, snow and ice quickly melt away without any waiting time.

Q. How far can you space snow melting cables?

If you are installing snow melting cable you may be wondering how far you can space the cable. Read more here about cable spacing.

Warmup recommends spacing snow melting cable at 3″ to deliver 50 watts per square foot. At 3″ spacing Warmup snow melting cable can deliver optimum results even under the harshest conditions.

Indoors or out, spacing heating cable further will decrease the heat output resulting in slower ramp-up times. Please refer to the chart below for a spacing guide.

**CABLE SPACING COVERAGE**
Cable length (ft)	Resistance (Ω)	3 pegs	4 pegs	5 pegs
84	WSM-240-1000	20	27	34
168	WSM-240-2000	43	57	72
209	WSM-240-2500	51	67	84
251	WSM-240-3000	62	84	104
330	WSM-240-4000	85	110	135
420	WSM-240-5000	100	140	170
500	WSM-240-6000	122	181	200

Q. Should I use snow melting mats or snow melting cables?

Warmup offers two forms of surface heating: snow melting mats and snow melting cables. The only difference between snow melting mats and snow melting cables is that snow melting mats have heating cable pre-fixed on a mesh for a quick installation in a regularly shaped space. While both options feature the same exact cable, installation instructions vary so it is important to read on to see what is best for your project.

For Regularly Shaped Spaces

Square or rectangle-shaped spaces would qualify as a regularly shaped. For these areas, Warmup recommends the use of snow melting mats. Snow melting mats have heating cable pre-fixed on a mesh for quick installation of 50 watts per square foot.

For Irregular Shaped Spaces

Stairs or curved spaces would qualify as irregularly shaped. For these areas, Warmup recommends the use of snow melting cables. Snow melting cable options are supplied on a spool so that cable can be custom-laid. To get the same heat-output as the snow melting mat, the cable must be spaced at 3″

Q. Are snow melting cables as effective as snow melting mats?

Warmup snow melting mats and snow melting cables are the exact same cable. If snow melting cables are spaced the same as snow melting mats, (3″) they are as effective.

Installation of Snow Melting Cable under Concrete

Please refer to the Warmup Snow Melting Specifications and installation for more information regarding the installation of this product.

Q. Can I Still Install my Snow melt System with Expansion Joints in the Concrete?

Installing Snow melt System with Expansion Joints

Yes, however careful planning is necessary to avoid any issues when the expansion joints are cut.

To avoid any issues, plan out where the joints are cut.

Ensure one length of the cable is tied to the floating rebar. The cable should be tied to either side of where the joint will be. At the end, the cable loops, connecting both runs of cable. Use a landscape hook to secure the loop far enough down to avoid the joint cuts. WSMM-Warmup Snow Melting expansion joint

Make sure to be taking resistance readings before the cuts are made. Take readings during cuts are made and after to ensure there was no damage.

Warmup Snow Melting Specifications and installation

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Choosing the Best Basement Heating Options for Your Home

Choosing the Best Basement Heating Options for Your Home

Basements are often seen as cold and dark spaces, but your home doesn’t have to live up to this cliché! If you want to add some heat to your home but aren’t sure where to start, these are the top tips for picking the best basement heating option for your home.

4 Reasons Why Radiant Floor Heating is the Best Solution for Basements

Since a basement is naturally cool in the summer, the next expense is providing the right heating solution to make the basement comfortable in the winter. You could add-on to your existing HVAC system or install electric baseboards, but neither of these solutions can provide the clean, quiet and efficient heat that an electric radiant floor heating system provides.

In addition to being easy to install and competitively priced with most heating options, radiant floor heating provides:

Low Long-Term Costs

Electric radiant floor heating systems with zone controlling thermostats are economical to operate because they heat the entire room quickly and evenly. You can control the heat in each room individually, so there is no wasted electricity by heating areas that are not being used. This translates into lower utility bills over the long-term.

Minimal Equipment

Everything needed to operate the system is below the floor. There are no large, noisy outside mechanical units required to produce the heat, and no fans or pumps running inside the basement to keep you awake at night.

No Maintenance

Once the system is installed, there are no parts that require upkeep.

Reliable and Consistent Heating Source

Electric radiant floor heat is almost as simple as set and forget. With the right programmable thermostat installed, the system operates by itself, turning off and on as needed, maintaining your desired temperature range 24/7.

What’s Your Budget?

What type of budget are you working with? Adding heat to a basement can cost from $1,000 to well over $15,000, depending on the size of your basement, how you heat it, and the company you work with. If this isn’t in your budget yet, it’s a good idea to set aside money for it or look for a company that offers a payment plan. Heating your basement will lower the cost of heating your entire home, so although it might be pricey upfront: it’s worth it to add more comfortable space.

Before You Make Changes

Before you add heating to your basement, it’s vital that you take steps to ensure the space is prepared to store heat. Look into waterproofing new basement walls and adding insulation so that they keep in as much moisture as possible. If your basement isn’t finished yet: you’ll want to finish it so the heat, you add will stay in your home instead of radiating out. Although this can be expensive, it’s worth it and will save you money on heating in the long run.

Ductless Heating or Extending Ductwork

If you don’t have duct-based eating in your home, you generally don’t want to add that to your basement because it can be expensive to add from scratch. A ductless heat pump can be energy efficient, working on heat loss with an indoor air handler that connects via a pipe to a heating unit on the outside of your home. These work great at stopping your pipes from freezing in the winter.

If your home does use duct heating, you can possibly get this extended into your basement! Before you start on this project, you should talk to a contractor or HVAC professional and check if the age and size of your current unit could handle having more space to heat. If not, you may need a separate heating unit or to upgrade the size and age of your current one for your entire home.

Heating the Floor

One of the best ways to heat basement spaces is to heat the floor. Since heat naturally rises, this will quickly warm an entire room and then permeate up through the floors above it.

Floor heating is great at removing excess moisture from a room, doesn’t risk blowing allergens back into the air, is noiseless, and doesn’t change the look of your basement. This is an ideal way to heat any space.

Basement Wall Heaters

Wall heaters are one of the more recognizable heating styles and can keep a basement very warm. With a choice between gas or electric, these units are permanently self-contained and recessed inside your wall. They’re great at heating up space by simply using the cold air in a room and heating it.

These don’t continue to heat a space once it’s turned off, unlike baseboard heaters: but if it’s a gas wall heater, you do leave yourself open to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. These are also noisy, even though they don’t take up any space.

Electric Space Heaters

If you want a mobile option, you can swap out whenever you decide to: electric space heaters could be your best choice. These are a fantastic way to add warmth to any space and to rearrange in an instant if you don’t like the spot, they’re in. Not only are these affordable, but they also come in many attractive options. Unfortunately, these aren’t energy efficient.

Baseboard Heaters

Baseboard heaters are a simple and straightforward option for homeowners who don’t want any external vents. There are two options for these, convection and hydronic, that each has unique ways of heating: but also, each has a risk if something goes wrong. These can be hardwired into your home’s electric system or simply plugged in, depending on which unit you purchase, but they can work extremely well if in the right space.

Stove Heaters and Fireplaces

If you want your basement to have a classic rustic look: consider going for a stove or fireplace look for your heating! You can burn wood pellets or get a gas heater and enjoy how energy efficient they are.

Unfortunately, these require you to spend time filling them with wood or fuel and need an external vent so they can remove the carbon monoxide that they produce while heating the space they’re in. These are gorgeous to look at but possibly not the best option for everyone.

Remember, Heat Rises!

Updating your basement heating isn’t going to just keep your basement warmer; it helps your entire home stay warm! Keep your basement warm and watch your entire home feel more comfortable.

Buy now at www.flooringsupplyshop.com 323-731-8453

Warmup The Ultimate Guide to Radiant Floor Heating

Warmup The Ultimate Guide to Radiant Floor Heating

Radiant floor heating systems are a great way to cut HVAC costs and provide more consistent heat to every square inch of your house. They are more efficient than the HVAC system because they heat the floor directly instead of pumping warm air through the room. The following breakdown will provide you with everything you need to know about this innovative subfloor heating system.

Types of Warmup Radiant Floor Heating

There are two main types of radiant floor heating systems:

Hydronic – this system uses water-filled pipes beneath the floor that are heated by a boiler
Electric – this system uses a network of electric heating wires or heating mats to heat the floors

Benefits of Radiant Floor Heating

Radiant floor heating is more efficient than HVAC for heating rooms because it heats the floors directly instead of pumping hot air through a room. This allows a radiant floor heating system to operate at lower temperature–and consume less energy–to achieve the same heating effect. Some other benefits of a radiant floor heating system include:

Invisible installation that leaves interior spaces open to maximize square footage
Compatibility with all types of flooring choices
Ease of installation makes them an option for DIY projects

Best Locations to Install Radiant Floor Heating

While radiant floor heating is a great option for any area of the home, some of the most common locations for installation include:

Bedrooms
Bathrooms
Kitchens
Basements
Garages

Go Radiant and Reap the Benefits Today

Radiant floor heating is clearly one of the best methods of creating an efficient, evenly-heated home. For a more detailed analysis of everything related to radiant floor heating, check out this infographic by Warmup for a detailed visual breakdown.

Radiant floor heating system warms a room by heating the floor directly rather than pumping in warm ai.
Heat from the floors rises and disappears, helping to warm the entire space. With radiant heat, comfort tends to be felt sooner and the system can run at lower temperature.
There is minimal air flow, keeping the temperature comfortable and even, everywhere in the room.

Radiant floor heating system warms a room by heating the floor directly rather than pumping in warm air.
Heat from the floors rises and disappears, helping to warm the entire space. With radiant heat, comfort tends to be felt sooner and the system can run at lower temperature.
There is minimal air flow, keeping the temperature comfortable and even, everywhere in the room.

Radiant Heating vs Forced Air

Compared to forced air system, radiant heat system operates at lower temperatures. This provides consistent heating, eliminates parasitic heat lost, and saves money on energy bills.

5 Myths About Radiant Heating

The Best Room in a House for Radiant Heating

Buy now at www.flooringsupplyshop.com 323-731-8453

How Heated Flooring Can Increase Your Home’s Value

Heated flooring might sound fancy or expensive, but it’s actually a cost-effective way to heat your home as well as a valuable addition that can raise your property value. Not only will it make your home more comfortable, it can change the entire design of your home and allow you to sell it for a higher price when the time comes.

In case you weren’t aware of the benefits of heated flooring, let’s take a look at why this innovative new heating system is making waves and becoming a staple in homes all across the world.

1. Heated Flooring is More Effective than Forced-Air Heating

Many people assume that heated flooring would only keep your floors warm, without warming the air and overall temperature of your home. Not only is this false, radiant floor heating is able to heat your entire home much more efficiently and evenly than a traditional forced-air system. This is because the heat comes from the ground up and isn’t blown in through a single point of entry.

Because this uniform style of heating eliminates cold drafts, you’re able to stay comfortable at a lower thermostat temperature than you would with a forced-air system. Radiant floor heating will keep everything from your floors to your handrails and countertops warm without any cold spots.

2. Better Energy Efficiency

The duct-work used to transfer heat via a forced-air system commonly develops leaks that let heat escape. Radiant floor heating provides no such escape route for heat, allowing your home to stay warm for longer and lessening the amount of time you need to keep the heat on. This makes your home more energy-efficient and will be reflected in your property value because the monthly energy bills will be lower.

3. Less Noise

Traditional forced-air systems can be heard throughout the house and produce a constant humming sound when the furnace is on. Radiant floor heating is nearly silent, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable heated home without having to listen to a noisy furnace. This is a benefit you can mention in your home’s description and is sure to add value to your home.

4. Better for Allergies

Forced-air systems are terrible for people with allergies. Allergens often settle on your durable countertops and in vents, being spread throughout the house when the air is turned on. This can lead to your symptoms flaring up every time you want to turn on the heat.

Radiant flooring heating, on the other hand, does not disturb the air at all. This allows any allergens to remain settled and does not kick them up into the air or spread them around the house.

Heated Floors are a Quick Way to Boost Your Home’s Value

Heated flooring might sound complex, but the installation process is so quick and simple that it makes for a great DIY project. Not only will installing radiant floor heating in your home make it more comfortable, less noisy, and less irritating to allergies, it will improve your energy efficiency and raise the value of your home by a decent margin.

Skylar Ross is a contributor to Innovative Building Materials. He is a blogger and content writer for the residential and commercial flooring industry. Skylar is focused on helping fellow homeowners, contractors, and manufacturers discover materials and methods of installation that increase property value, improve durability, and discover innovative flooring options for their home or commercial space.

Category: Radiant Floor heating