Before you go out and start your radiant installation, you should have at least an idea of what radiant heater is and how they operate.

First of all, you need to have an understanding of how radiant floors work. The concept used by radiant heaters is derived from the scientific principle called the thermal radiation. In this principle, it states that energy, in this case heat, can be transferred from one object to another. The principle is very simple really as the actual process can more or less be described as follows:

The floor is first warmed up through the use of electricity or water. In whatever is applicable, either an electrical cord or a water tube is installed at the bottom of the floor warming it up. Heat energy from the floor is then transferred to the objects in contact with the floor and the heat energy is then [assed from on object unto another until the whole room is heated up.

The two main types of installation are the dry installation and the wet installation. Dry installation involves the use of panels that are placed on top of the floor. These panels are hooked up to whatever heating source that you have. In the wet installation, gypsum is used to cover cables that are used in heating. It is important to note that this type of installation is only used when a concrete material with a high thermal mass is available.

So are you excited to install your very own radiant heater? Before you do so, here are some things to think about before installing radiant heaters:

Do you have an existing installation?

If you already have an existing installation, you need to check and recheck the things that are going to be installed again. You also need to check other aspects of the installation like the existing insulation. Is it enough for what you want to install or do you need an upgrade.

Energy cost.

You need to be able to control the amount that you will be paying monthly for your radiant heater. In some states, there are off peak hours in their electricity cost that you can take advantage of. You can charge your heater during off peak hours in order to save up on your expenses. Also try to use the sun to your advantage as it is a nice and natural resource for heat and warmth.

The cover

when you install radiant heaters in your room you also need to consider what material you should cover the floor with. You can choose from pad, linoleum, vinyl and ceramic tiles. However, you need to keep in mind that covers insulate the heat making your heater less effective so try and use the covers sparingly in radiant installation.