How Hydronic Radiant Floor Heating Works

How Does a Hydronic System Work?

Unlike forced-air heating, which works by blowing warm air through large ducts, a hydronic system uses a dedicated water heater or a boiler (or even your existing water heater) as a heat source. A circulating pump moves the hot water through the PEX tubing and back to the heater. Because there can be no joints in the PEX tubing in the floor, uncut lengths of tubing snake through the floor, starting and ending at a manifold. The manifold balances the water in individual loops (lengths of tubing) and vents the system. The water returns to the bottom of the water heater near the drain about 10 degrees cooler than when it left.

What to Look For In a Hydronic Radiant Floor Heating System

For truly even heat, choose a system that circulates hot water through code-approved plastic tubing (like PEX) that’s embedded in a layer of material and covered by ceramic tile flooring. The material can be lightweight concrete, Gypcrete or dry-tamped mortar. This cement-like layer, combined with the tile, makes up a great mass that stores the heat for a long time and continues to radiate it even when the water’s not circulating. This constant warmth can greatly increase the comfort of a room, especially in cold climates.

The cost of a hydronic system for an addition may be about the same as the cost of adding another furnace. However, your operating costs will be lower for the hydronic system, the water heater won’t take up as much space as a furnace and ductwork, and you’ll probably be more comfortable.

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