RADIANT FLOORING
Radiant flooring, also known as underfloor heating, is a method of heating a building by using heat emanating from the floor. In a radiant floor heating system, hot water or electric coils are installed beneath the floor, which then warms up the floor and radiates heat upward into the room. The heat is transferred to the objects in the room, including furniture, walls, and people, creating a comfortable, even warmth.
Radiant flooring can be installed in a variety of flooring materials, including tile, hardwood, and concrete. It is often considered a more comfortable and energy-efficient heating option compared to traditional forced-air heating systems. Additionally, radiant flooring can be installed as either a primary or secondary heating source, depending on the specific heating needs of the building.
What do people love about radiant heating?
- Radiant, sometimes called under-floor, heating is a way to heat a building by circulating warm water through a network of piping, typically embedded in concrete.
- The warm surfaces radiate to the objects and people in the space, creating a comfortable environment.
- You don’t need to step out of the shower on to a freezing tile or sit in a different part of the office to avoid a forced-air draft anymore!
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Heat emission from the human body occurs mainly via four mechanisms: radiation, evaporation, conduction and convection. Humans feel most comfortable when they can regulate at least 50% of their heat emission via radiation.
As an example, you feel warm when you stand in direct sunlight, even on a cold day. While the air temperature may be cold, the warm radiation from the sun feels nice. With radiant heating, the entire floor of your home can be a warm heat source, radiating heat to warm your skin. As an added bonus, all of the objects on the floor warm up, so no more ice cold chairs.
SNOW & ICE MELTING
Snow and ice melting is a process of removing snow and ice from outdoor surfaces, such as sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots, using a heating system installed beneath the surface. The heating system is designed to melt the snow and ice, preventing it from accumulating on the surface and creating a hazard.
There are two main types of snow and ice melting systems: electric and hydronic. Electric systems use heating cables or mats installed beneath the surface to generate heat and melt the snow and ice. Hydronic systems use hot water or a mixture of water and antifreeze circulated through pipes installed beneath the surface to generate heat and melt the snow and ice.
Snow and ice melting systems are often used in areas with heavy snowfall or where ice accumulation poses a safety hazard. They are commonly used in commercial properties, such as shopping centers and hospitals, as well as residential properties. Snow and ice melting systems can help reduce the cost and labor associated with snow removal while improving safety and accessibility during winter weather conditions.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
- In a SIM system, a warm water/glycol solution is circulated through a network of pipes embedded in an outdoor surface, in order to melt the snow and ice above.
- System controls continually monitor data provided by outdoor sensors and ready the system to begin melting.
- WiFi connected controls calculate the most efficient use of energy by anticipating forecasted storms. After the surface is clear it automatically shuts off.
- DAVESDUCTS has the engineering expertise to help you design a system with output capacity geared to the specific conditions in your geographic area.
For more information on designing, building and installing a radiant floor or snow melting system, give us a call or email: 416-668-4607 or info@davesducts.com
