In the industrial world, energy efficiency and comfort of the work environment are top priorities. One solution that is increasingly popular is underfloor heating. This is a heating system installed under the floor surface. This system can use hot water or electric cables to produce heat that spreads evenly throughout the room. The advantages of this system are numerous. Among them are energy efficiency, increased comfort, and reduced air movement, which can help limit dust circulation and allergens. So, how underfloor heating works? Let’s discuss further in the article below.
How Underfloor Heating Works
This system functions in an efficient and comfortable way, by heating the room from the floor level upward. Here is a detailed explanation of how it works.
System Type
First of all, there are two main types of underfloor heating systems. Namely the water system (hydronic), which uses pipes that are filled with hot water, and the electric system that uses heating cables that produce heat when electricity flows.
Heating Process
The water system starts with water that is heated by a boiler or other heat source such as a heat pump. Then, the hot water is channeled through pipes located under the floor. When hot water flows through the pipes, heat is transferred to the floor surface. The room is heated primarily through radiant heat from the warm floor, with conduction occurring within the floor structure and gentle convection in the air above.
While in the electrical system, when electricity flows through the heating cable, the cable produces heat. The heat from the cable then flows to the floor and spreads to the room above it.
Temperature Control
The system is equipped with a thermostat that allows users to set the desired temperature. This thermostat can be connected to the heating system. Its function is to control the flow of water or electricity to suit the room temperature needs. In water-based systems, thermostats often work together with thermal actuators to regulate hot water flow to each heating zone.
Heat Distribution
Heat distribution can be done by conduction and convection. Conduction means that heat from the pipe or cable will move to the floor and then to the surrounding air. While convection means that warm air produced from the floor will rise upwards. In addition, radiant heat from the floor surface plays a major role in creating uniform and comfortable room temperatures. This creates air circulation that makes the entire room feel comfortable.
Insulation
It is important to have insulation panels under the pipes or cables to minimize heat loss downwards. This ensures that more heat is directed upwards, improving system efficiency and reducing energy consumption.
Comfort and Efficiency
With even heating from below, this system creates better comfort when compared to traditional heaters that often produce hot and cold spots. More consistent temperatures also lead to more efficient energy use, which helps reduce operating costs.
Main Components of Underfloor Heating System
To build an efficient underfloor heating system, there are several main components required. Each component has a specific function and contributes to the overall performance of the system.
Heating Pipes or Cables
Pipes are used for water systems and are usually made of heat-resistant materials such as PEX (cross-linked polyethylene). PEX pipes function to channel hot water throughout the area under the floor. While the electrical system uses heating cables, these cables are installed under the floor and function to produce heat when electricity flows through them.
Boiler or Heat Source
For water-based heating systems, a boiler is used to heat the water which is then channeled through pipes. This heat source can be a gas boiler, electric boiler, or even a heat pump.
Thermostat
A sophisticated thermostat functions to control the room temperature with accuracy. This allows users to set the desired temperature and optimize energy usage.
Insulation Panels or Shields
Insulation panels are used to minimize heat loss downwards and increase efficiency. These panels are usually made of insulating materials such as polystyrene. Panels are placed under the pipes or cables to keep the heat in the desired area.
Distribution System
These components include valves, pumps, and flow regulators. Their function is to help distribute hot water evenly throughout the pipes. In water-based systems, manifolds and circulation pumps are essential for balanced heat distribution.
Floor Covering
Floor coverings such as ceramic, vinyl, or wood that have good thermal conductivity are important to ensure that heat can easily spread from the heating system to the space above.
Other Connections and Equipment
This includes pipe connections, fittings, and other devices required for the installation and setup of the underfloor heating system.
Ultimately, underfloor heating systems offer many benefits to the industry. With a better understanding of how underfloor heating works, companies can make better decisions in choosing the right heating solution for their needs.