Heating systems for homes and businesses are faced with an increasing number of options to consider for their primary and secondary heating. While fire places and coal burning stoves become less popular, other alternative heating methods are quickly becoming more common. Traditional furnaces as a primary heating system are now being challenged from radiant baseboards, radiant floor heating systems and even radiant ceiling heaters. Many of these new heating systems are using electricity instead of natural gas or heating oil.

Space heaters are also becoming a less expensive option to upgrading a poorly insulated home or to add supplemental heat to cold areas. Thermostone heaters and heated towel warmers from Climastar mount to a wall and are a couple of heating systems that have been commonly used in Europe for decades are now gaining acceptance in the United States. Many interior designers are adopting these electric heating systems as fashionable accessories to bathrooms, basements and home offices.

A common challenge to traditional heating systems is the inability to zone your home for specific areas of the home without heating the entire home. Electric radiant heating systems can be easily designed to be independently controlled by zone which enables a home owner to increase the temperature for defined areas of the home during occupancy and conversely allows a particular zone to remain off during down times. This strategy not only saves the home owner money, it gives you complete control to efficiently warm you most used living spaces without comprising cost.

Choosing the best heating system for a new home or to add supplemental heat to a cold spot in your home now takes a little homework. The radiant consultants and designers at Warmzone have been trained in all of the latest heating systems to properly assess your project and prescribe a system that will add value to your home inside of your budget. Contact us by phone or email to learn more about your home heating goals and we will sell you a heating system that works for you.

About Warmzone
Warmzone provides consumers with energy-efficient, radiant heating solutions for homes and businesses. Based in Salt Lake City, Utah, Warmzone's electricians and radiant heat experts will help you determine the best radiant heating solution, ranging from electric heated floors to large commercial snow and ice melt projects. Send us a plan or drawings and we'll be happy to provide you with a FREE estimate and options for your roof heating and ice melting project.

What a pain! If you or anyone in your family has asthma or dust allergies, you know all too well how miserable these ailments can make a person. Many allergy and asthma experts will advise certain changes in housekeeping habits to help alleviate allergy- or asthma-causing conditions in your home. In addition, you might consider changing your heat source to radiant heaters.

At first glance, you might not think that radiant heaters could be such a simple solution to helping keep your home healthy. In reality, radiant heaters improve the air quality, which is important, especially for anyone who suffers from either dust allergies or asthma. Not having to change air filters or clean heating ducts should also cut down dramatically on dust or other allergens in your home’s air.

Eliminating dust mites that live in your home would also go a long way towards helping keep your home healthy. Since dust mites love a warm moist environment, towel heaters and other radiant heater systems aid in maintaining a consistent room temperature and keep it moisture-free…and dust mite-free, too.  Furthermore, mold and mildew are also caused from excessive moisture especially in bathrooms with insufficient ventilation.

Radiant Heater Tip: By placing radiant heaters or a radiant heat towel rack in the bathroom you can combat the spread of germs for only pennies a day. 

There has been much debate over low voltage radiant systems versus line voltage radiant systems as radiant heat gains popularity in North America. The aim of this article is to dispel some of the myths surrounding the different kinds of systems.

Myth 1: Low voltage radiant systems are safer than line voltage.

Low voltage is low, so it makes sense that it’s safer, right? While this makes perfect sense initially, we have to take a closer look to find out the real answer. If your definition of safe is the chances of being hurt by voltage during installation, low voltage will give you a bit of a shock, but won’t cause lasting damage. The real question we should be asking is how durable is the cable against damage and how well is the cable insulated. Both line and low voltage snow melting systems are embedded in 4 inches of concrete, asphalt, or under pavers. When installed properly the embedded systems are not exposed and harmful. Some low voltage heating wires are NOT designed for embedment. These have only a thin layer of plastic and a heating element that is THHN/THWN wire. This wire is intended for interior use NOT in concrete, asphalt, or under pavers. Low voltage wires do not have ground fault protection, so electrical leakage can go undetected.

In contrast, line voltage obviously has higher voltage, which is why line voltage cables are built to withstand wear and tear, and are much more difficult to damage. If you do manage to damage a line voltage cable, don’t worry! Line voltage systems are equipped with ground fault protection (GFEP) breakers with a 30 milliamp trip. Which means the system will automatically shut off when it has reached beyond allowable leakage levels. What does this mean? Well for one you don’t need to worry about bodily harm, but you also don’t need to worry about potential fire hazard from a damaged cable. The bottom line: both line voltage and low voltage systems are safe to use.

Myth 2: Low voltage radiant systems cost less to run than a line voltage system.

It is true that low voltage radiant systems consume a lower amount of power, but this doesn’t mean it is less costly to run. Low voltage systems can actually be more expensive to operate because these systems generally produce 20 watts/sq ft (which is below ASHRAE standards). By producing less heat per square foot, it takes longer to heat the same area, thus increasing the cost and the time it takes to melt. Because of the decreased heat output, during heavier snow falls low voltage systems struggle to keep up with the snowfall, and have to remain on much longer. For this reason, ASHRAE has set forth watt standards for snow melting.

Line voltage systems are designed specifically for the environment in which they will be operating. These systems are made to produce the necessary watts (that meet ASHRAE standards) to melt snow in the most efficient time possible.

Some low voltage systems on the market have some distinct advantages over line voltage. Zmesh is low voltage, but does not rely on heat cables to generate heat. Instead it is constructed of a unique thin mesh that requires no embedding in thinset and can be installed directly under carpet pad, hardwood and even for use on your roof for snow and ice melting. The biggest advantage of Zmesh is that you can hammer nails into it without worry of damage!

Myth 3: Low voltage systems are easier to repair.

Both line voltage and low voltage cables are easy to repair. Simply remove the bad section of cable, add in a splice kit, cover it back over with whatever surface it’s in, and the system should operate as normal. You do not have to replace the entire cable or rip out the entire surface, only the area that is damaged. The location of the break can be identified by using devices such as the DEVItrace from Danfoss or a TDR, which uses radio frequencies and a “wand” to locate the damaged section of cable.

Myth 4: Low Voltage systems are more efficient.

Low voltage systems are NOT more efficient. Since these systems have a much lower output of heat per square foot; they take much longer to melt snow, especially during heavy snow storms and probably will not be able to keep up with the demand. Further increasing their inefficiencies, low voltage systems must have the electricity pass through a transformer and very thick power leads (2 gauge), which causes voltage to drop as it travels distance before reaching the heating element. Line voltage cables have the energy to go directly into heating, without the loss of power. Overall, both line and low voltage systems are more efficient than hydronic snow melting.

Myth 5: Low voltage systems offer a better warranty.

Some low voltage warranties are very deceiving. They boast of a 25 year warranty period, but when examined closer it is found that the 25 year warranty only covers the heating wire. As discussed earlier these heating wires are actually THHN or THWN, which can be purchased relatively cheaply at any hardware store.

Warmzone’s line voltage cable manufacturer’s warranty (Danfoss) covers up five times the cost of the original system which is intended to cover the cost and time involved in making repairs, not just the actual heating element itself.

Myth 6: Both systems provide sufficient heat.

Low voltage systems in most snow melting applications do not meet the ASHRAE standards. The minimum watts per square foot ASHRAE requires in North America is 32 watts per square foot. Popular low voltage systems on average are designed to produce approximately 20 watts per square foot and with extremely tight spacing will max out at 30, still below the standards ASHRAE has set forth.

Line voltage systems are designed specifically for the environment in which they will be operating. These systems are made to produce the necessary watts (that meet ASHRAE standards) to melt snow in the most efficient time possible.

Myth 7: Both systems are UL Approved.

Most low voltage snow melting systems are not UL listed. Warmzone’s line voltage systems are UL tested and approved.

SYSTEM WEAKNESSES

• THHN/THWN wire was not designed for concrete embedment. The outer jacket is soft and easily cut which will shorten its life.
• Low heat output – Does not satisfy ASHRAE requirements.
• Bulky and costly controls (transformer and control box are 100 lbs per 200 square foot zone).
• Warranty - only covers THHN/THWN wire. Control box is 1 year, transformer is 5 years.
• Slow to install - the transformer and control box are complicated and time consuming to install.
• Noise – transformers emit noise and location of them must be considered.
• Price – low-voltage systems are typically double the price of a comparable line –voltage system.

As radiant heating systems have gained popularity, a lot of fly-by-night manufacturers are trying to cash in on the recent boom. This sparked ASHRAE to come out with standards for radiant snow melting systems to prevent abuse from manufacturers. Most low voltage radiant snow melting systems don’t meet the ASHRAE standards for quality and efficiency. Unfortunately, not all consumers are aware of standards in the radiant industry and purchase faulty products unwittingly and end up with negativity towards radiant heating in general. Rest assured there are plenty of efficient radiant systems that will run smoothly for decades without needing any maintenance. Make sure to do thorough research before purchasing any products, which means checking for proper safety certifications and standards, and you won't regret it.  

Radiant Heaters Tip: Many recent developments have made hydronic systems more convenient and possible radiant heater solutions for major home remodeling projects.

Radiant heaters, as opposed to warm air systems (such as a forced air unit heaters), deliver the source of heat to the floor level, not the ceiling. And since warm air rises, heating the floors proves to be the most efficient means of heating living areas.

Radiant heaters or radiant energy is the oldest form of heating used to provide comfort and is the basis for all heating systems. Radiant energy is totally pure radiation and is absorbed by an object without physical contact with the heat source or by heating the surrounding air, as is the case with convective, forced air systems.

Under floor heaters were first used by the Romans. Initially the preserve of the rich, under floor heating became increasingly commonplace in public buildings and villas, particularly in the colder regions of the Roman Empire. The Roman system was based on hypocausts, comprising ducts that underlay the floor (itself built on raised brick piles) and flues that were built into walls. Hot air or steam from fires circulated up through this system, warming the floor and walls, with heat passing into the rooms.

More specifically, the floor was laid out as series of concrete slabs acting as radiant heaters supported by columns of layered tiles, with a furnace at the bottom of one exterior wall. By placing the fire here, the draught would take the radiant heat under the floor, and up through the walls to radiant heater chimneys located in the corners of the room.

Today we recognize the brilliance of the Romans and Koreans as early adopters of radiant heating, as the technology is still a desired method for delivering comfortable and efficient heat in our homes. Now we have radiant heaters using electric resistance cables that are constructed of highly rated materials and feature manufacturer warranties of up to 25 years.

About Warmzone
Warmzone provides consumers with energy-efficient, radiant heating solutions for homes and businesses. Based in Salt Lake City, Utah, Warmzone's electricians and radiant heat experts will help you determine the best radiant heating solution, ranging from electric heated floors to large commercial snow and ice melt projects. Send us a plan or drawings and we'll be happy to provide you with a FREE estimate and options for your roof heating and ice melting project.

Even though it’s now Springtime (and forecasted high energy bills), homebuilders, househunters, and home renovators alike are looking for energy-efficient heating options for houses.  In fact, as builders and homeowners look for new ways to add value to homes in a weak housing market, they often look for upgrades that will add value and efficiency to their homes, which will help them sell.  We say they need look no further than radiant heaters for their ideal home heating solution.

In a nutshell, radiant heaters are the most efficient form of heat available in today’s market. Significantly less operating time is required to attain and maintain the desired warmth compared to furnaces and other, traditional methods of heating, which keeps operational costs to a minimum.

High efficiency boilers or electric radiant floor systems makes radiant heat one of your most efficient ways to heat your home. Combined with a well-insulated home, these radiant heater systems can quickly warm your home and then shut down or wait idle for long periods of time before being called upon by the thermostat to operate.

Radiant Heaters Tip:  Being more environmentally friendly doesn’t have to involve major renovations. Many people waste a lot of energy by not sealing cracks, doors and windows. Checking to make sure a home’s insulation is in good shape and replacing it if it’s not is another good surefire way to stop, prevent, and reverse energy waste. 

Upon hearing the words, “What can Brown do for You? ®” an immediate vision comes to mind of a large, brown delivery truck with the name UPS emblazoned on each side. United Parcel Service has done an incredible job to bring their name to the forefront in the package-delivery market.  The same might be said regarding “The Golden Arches ®,” McDonald’s famous advertising ploy.  Most highly-successful businesses are easily recognized by a catchy slogan or an eye-catching symbol.

We at Warmzone want to be known in the radiant heat arena as the company that will do everything possible to “just make sense” of what might be a confusing array of possibilities for consumers who are seeking information on alternative heating sources.

Why are such vast numbers seeking an alternative radiant heating source ?

Questar Gas Company, included the following message with January’s fuel bill mailing:  “As you have seen, natural gas bills this winter are significantly higher than last year.  Even with all the news about higher natural gas prices, reality doesn’t set in until your bill is opened.”  Unless customers have been oblivious to drastic increases in fuel costs over the past two months, this was somewhat of an understatement.  More than just reality has set in upon consumers!  Caught somewhere in the middle of paying a huge fuel bill and taking a sick child to see a doctor, people are taking a stand against such increases. 

President Bush has encouraged our nation to look for alternative sources as we have become “addicted to oil.” In his state of the union address on January 31, 2006 he announced the Advanced Energy Initiative, a 22% increase in clean-energy research at the Department of Energy, “to push for breakthroughs in two vital areas. To change how we power our homes and offices, we will invest more in zero-emission coal-fired plants, revolutionary solar and wind technologies, and clean, safe nuclear energy.”  Quoting once more from the Questar message: “As you can see, prices on the open market are volatile and have increased to record highs this year both nationally and locally.” 

Volatile, skyrocketing, record high fuel costs provide reasons aplenty for so many people to turn to Warmzone.com for guidance in finding the best-possible radiant heat system for their needs.  Consumers are finding themselves backed into a corner and are looking for an efficient, comfortable alternative.  That just makes sense!

With our commitment to researching the best options for radiant heat and assessing each job individually, our research and design team is prepared to design each project with the ideal system to meet the needs of our customers at the best available prices.

Warmzone is a different kind of company.  Unlike a manufacturer, we do not favor one system over another.  We acknowledge the fact that there are dozens of brands and types of radiant systems that offer unique qualities, but no one system is the answer for every project.  We take great interest in your project goals, requirements and budget and then provide you with a quote for the best system available to complete your project.  We may suggest using an electric, hydronic or a combination of these technologies.  There are clear advantages and disadvantages to each system and technology.  We will explain why we prefer one system over another for your particular project.  At Warmzone.com, you can expect simple, honest explanations for our suggestions to you. 

Customer service is at the top of our priority list.  As with “Brown” or the “Golden Arches,” we would be nothing without you, the consumer.  We are committed to helping people install the latest in innovative radiant heat systems by providing:
            1.  High quality materials
            2.  Installation packages that simplify the work.
            3.  Design assistance
            4.  Installation advice and support.
            5.  The latest ideas in energy efficiency and alternative energy.
We are not satisfied until you are satisfied.  That, of course, makes perfect sense!

Radiant heat systems are constantly evolving – which can be a challenge when it comes to deciding which is the best system for your project.  You can be assured that Warmzone will consider every system and then offer you the best technology for your project.

Most of the systems we design and sell can easily be installed by any plumbing and heating professional or general contractor.  But if you cannot find either professional in your area, our products can be installed by any reasonably-competent handyman.  Custom design and engineering packages are also available to assure that you are getting off on the right foot with your heating investment. These plans take the guess work out of the installation and become a road map for your system for future reference or to pass on to the next home owner.  

We welcome your inquiries and are prepared to help you with your radiant heat decisions.   Warmzone is the only company matching individual heating projects to solutions that make sense among the wide variety of available choices.  We’re not “brown,” nor are we “gold,” but we are leading out to assure customers make the right choice in the ever-increasing radiant heating market. 

Visit us online at www.warmzone.com or speak with one of our representatives by calling us directly at 1.888.488.WARM

© 2006 Warmzone Media.  “What Can Brown Do for You?” is a registered trademark of United Parcel Service of America, Inc. “The Golden Arches” is a registered trademark of McDonald's Corporation. Additional copyrights and trademarks are held by their respective owners.

As demands for lower energy costs increase, homebuilders, househunters, and home renovators alike are looking for energy-efficient heating options for houses.  We say they need look no further than radiant heaters for their ideal home heating solution.
In a nutshell, radiant heating is among the most efficient forms of heat available in today’s market. Significantly less operating time is required to attain and maintain the desired warmth compared to furnaces and other, traditional methods of heating, which keeps operational costs to a minimum.

High efficiency boilers or electric radiant floor systems makes radiant heat one of your most efficient ways to heat your home. Combined with a well-insulated home, these radiant heater systems can quickly warm your home and then shut down or wait idle for long periods of time before being called upon by the thermostat to operate.

Radiant Heaters Tip:  Being more environmentally friendly doesn’t have to involve major renovations. Many people waste a lot of energy by not sealing cracks, doors and windows. Checking to make sure a home’s insulation is in good shape and replacing it if it’s not is another good surefire way to stop, prevent, and reverse energy waste.