|
|
|
Underfloor Heating - FAQ
|
|
|
|
Underfloor heating is a reliable and effective heating method which has been used for many years in the countries of Northern and Central Europe, where rather low temperatures are common. The heat is distributed evenly throughout the space mainly by thermal radiation, warming the area and giving a sense of warm coziness, with lower operating costs. Underfloor heating can be used in both new residences and building renovations or extensions.
|
|
|
|
Its operation is based on the circulation of warm water through pipes embedded in the floor. The actuator's check valves control the water flow according to the desired temperature set by the thermostat.
|
|
|
|
No risk. The Como-floor pipe used, is manufactured from special type polyethylene resistant to high temperatures and has oxygen barrier. The production and the quality control of the pipe are in accordance with European Standard EN ISO 22391 and German standard DIN 16833. The physical and mechanical strengths of the pipe are certified by German Institute SKZ, certificate number A 401. The oxygen barrier is certified by German Institute MPA – NRW according to standard DIN 4726.
|
|
|
|
Yes. In the event the pipe is damaged during works (i.e. pipe puncture), it can be fixed with a special watertight fitting.
|
|
|
|
The underfloor heating pipe must be bar type without connection for greater watertightness and bear check switches and valves for installing thermoelectric actuators in order to regulate the circuits and control the operation of each space correctly and based on the design.
|
|
|
|
Due to the different requirements of each construction and the particularities of the application, a design is necessary. It must therefore be followed to the letter by a specialized crew, in order to ensure the safe, unimpeded and economic operation of the system based on the requirements of each employer.
|
|
|
|
No. When an underfloor heating design is followed faithfully during its application, then the desired temperature of the space is achieved, and the floor’s temperature does not exceed 29oC. At this temperature the floor is warm and comfortable, even for walking barefoot.
|
|
|
|
All types of flooring are suitable for underfloor heating, so long as the installation design makes the necessary allowances and ensures safe, smooth and economic operation.
|
|
|
|
Generally speaking underfloor heating is indeed more expensive than heating with radiators, but it offers savings in bills. The investment is quickly returned due to the lower cost for operation and maintenance. Finally, apart from the ideal comfort, warmth and coziness offered by the system, underfloor heating adds value to a residence.
|
|
|
Precisely because heat is conveyed from the surface of the floor and not from the height of the radiators in a conventional system (1.20m) or an air conditioning unit (2.50m) we can achieve the desired temperatures even in spaces with a high ceiling, as heating is provided to the effective height of the space (approx. 2.10m) and not the ceiling of the building (as is the case with conventional systems).
In addition, it covers the needs of buildings with large openings and no available external walls for the installation of radiators. Underfloor heating is thus an invaluable tool for contemporary architectural design.
|
|
|
|
Due to the low temperature of the water required for underfloor heating for its operation, it is compatible with any source of energy, whether it is an oil or natural gas boiler, air-to-water heat pump or geothermal pump, solar energy, energy fireplaces, etc.
|
|
|
|
|
|