Underfloor heating can be defined as a method of warming up a space and controls the temperature inside a building. The words radiant warming can also describe this kind of heating. Transference, energy and convection are used to generate and distribute the heat throughout the space. The application of underfloor heating dates very far back in history, and was even used by the Romans and early Koreans according to evidence in archaeological excavations of these areas. Heating can be installed throughout a building and cover all the floor areas, or can be installed only in areas which are prone to cold or where traffic is likely.
Modern underfloor heating is done in one of three methods:
Electricity: Electrical heating cables that contain heating elements are installed in the floor and heated with electricity. Electrical heating also work with timing meters and can frequently be used only to heat a particular area under wood, tiles, and even under shower or bathroom walking and seating surfaces. Electric systems are not as complicated to lay in as the water heating, but can cost more in heating costs in the long term. However energy efficient ways can be found to heat the water to reduce the power usage.
Water: Hot water is mixed with certain anti-corrosive chemicals, then heated in one of a variety of ways and circulated under and through the floor in pipes. These are normally installed by specialists who are au fair with working with water and piping, plumbing or boilers and geysers. The water heaters can be made energy efficient by installing solar water heaters or the water can be heated by electricity in a boiler.
Air: This works almost in the same way as the water heaters, but in this case, air is heated and pushed through tubing underground through high pressure. It costs less to heat air but it is easier for air to leak out due to holes or imperfections in the pipes, and fixing these can be difficult.
Regardless of which method of heating is used, the pipes and wires have to share an area with other construction elements, and unwanted heat or cold can be transmitted between them. It is therefore key to insulate all the building elements.