South Africa is known for its welcoming climate and it is a popular tourist destination, especially after the Soccer World Cup. However, changes are evident with global warming rearing its head. The winters are a tad bit more brutal. People rely on various means of heating the home to ensure comfort for the family. Conventional heaters are very popular and many of them use electricity and gas. Some heaters are powered by petrol and paraffin but those are not recommended as they are vulnerable and have been the cause of many fatal fires in rural areas and informal settlements around the country.
Underfloor heating is an excellent way to way to warm and cool the home. They apply conduction, convection and radiation transfer methods of heat. Radiation is commonly applied when installing underfloor heating systems. Underfloor heating systems are best installed during the construction phase but they can also be installed at a later stage. They are fitted under the surface of the floor and they offer maximum comfort.
Underfloor heating also uses the transfer of heat by conduction. This is when heat is transferred between two objects of different temperatures that are touching i.e. feet touching the floor. It is, for obvious reasons, best installed and most effective in the interior of the home. Underfloor heating is helpful in minimising moisture damage which means homeowners can say goodbye to waterproofing concerns. Dust mites, mold, viruses and bacteria are the result of poor waterproofing attempts and they are all eliminated by underfloor heating.
Thermal comfort is when the mind is at ease and satisfied with the warmth; that is what underfloor heating induces. This heating system is not intrusive and does not consume a lot of space in the home as it is fitted under the floor and its presence is not realised until it is turned on. Underfloor heating systems are a fine choice because they do not give off any toxic fumes and they are also environmentally friendly. They are also safe as there is no direct contact and exposure to the heat source.