What PEX is best to use for your application?

The answer will depend on many factors, such as your budget, skill level and whether you have already bought any tools or materials. Wondering what PEX A, B and C letters are? They are used to identify the manufacturing process.
PEX-A is the most expensive of all 3 types and other than slightly greater flexibility than the other (2) types, there are no significant advantages of this type over the other two. Great for all radiant applications easier to install for a person who is a novice due to greater flexibility.

PEX-B Houseneeds elects not to sell PEX-B because we prefer the properties of PEX-A and PEX-C over the PEX-B.

PEX-C is the latest addition to PEX line and price-wise is less expensive than PEX-A. Unfortunately, the cross-linking process for this type creates the least amount of bonds (vs. the PEX-A) therefore, the flexibility of the this product is less than PEX-A. If the PEX tubing becomes kinked during handling, it can be re-formed to its original shape by heating it with an electric heat gun to a temperature of approximately
275F.The tubing will pale slightly when heated and become pliable as the shape restores. Do not overheat, and allow to completely cool undisturbed. Otherwise,  you may have to cut out the kinked section and fix it with a mechincal union. PEX-C can be used with a large variety of installation methods. Our PEX-C is Heat and Domestic Potable Water Approved.

Houseneeds sells the following heating PEX products:

Heatlink PEX-A color is white and is an excellent product for the price. Great for all heating applications. Available in 1/2", 5/8", & 3/4".   Click here for technical information.

HousePEX PEX-A color is red and is priced a little higher than the Heatlink. Great for all heating applications. The tubing coil has an inside diameter exceeding 15 inches, so that memory-effect of its coiling is minimal. The running ft. markings start from 0 at the inside of each coil so that the installer will always know how tubing is left in the coil. It also has a thin coating of PE on top of the barrier in order to reduce noise when installed in joist applications and Aluminum Heat Transfer Plates. Available in 3/8", 1/2", 5/8". 3/4", 1" sizes. Click here for technical information.  

HousePEX PEX-C PEX color is white almost as flexible as our PEX-A PEX-A tubing. Perfect for those underfloor heating applications as well as Domestic Potable Plumbing systems. Heat and Domestic Potable Water Approved.

Manufactured in USA. Available in 3/8", 1/2", & 5/8" sizes.

Click here for technical information.  

Valves for Myson SX & SD Panel and Decor Radiators

The Myson SX, SD and Decor radiators have British Standard straight female pipe threads NOT NPT which means you will need to purchase two conversion valves for each radiator.  the Myson valves are designed to work with the Myson radiators.

The most popular valve is the LKD16AN used mainly for when your pipes are coming out of the wall or floor. This ½ inch Preset Flow Rate Angle Valve Body with no cap is an Adjustable Flow Valve only without thermostatic control and connects to the Myson radiator 1/2 inch British thread with a wrench and 1/2 Inch Copper Pipe with a compression fitting. Please keep in mind the BSP threads are a straight running thread NOT tapered like NPT.

LKD16AN

Use the LKD16SN  only if your pipes are going straight into the radiator from side to side.


If you would like to control the temperature room by room than the Myson 2TRV2HD Valve Head has a sensor element which consists of a liquid-filled capsule with an immersed bellows and push rod. As the ambient temperature rises, the liquid in the sensor’s metal capsule expands and compresses the bellows, causing the integral push rod to close the valve. As the room’s ambient temperature drops, the liquid in the capsule contracts, allowing the bellows to retract the push rod to open the valve.  Another special feature of the Myson 2TRV2HD Valve Head is its two integral locking pins, allowing you to lock the temperature at one setting or limit it to a specific range of temperatures. Setting Ambient Range  is 46°F to 83°F.

                        

2TRV1/2AN               2TRV1/2IN                 2TRV1/2SN

Myson products are designed to be installed by professional trades people. Myson instructions are meant to be thorough; however it is assumed that the installer has the appropriate technical knowledge related to building codes, standard trade practices, and proper use of the tools of the trade. Should a homeowner without such knowledge or skill take it upon him/herself to attempt the installation, Myson will not be responsible for any damages, injuries or unsatisfactory performance of the Myson product used.  Using other than the Myson specific valves would void the Myson warranty. 

Please click here to view the Myson valve catalog.

If you have further questions or if you would like to place an order please contact us 866-432-8123 or visit www.houseneeds.com     


   

Toyotomi Hydronic Heat Convectors HC 20

The Toyotomi Hydronic Heat Convector saves space as compared to regular baseboard heaters. With its compact, quiet operation and clean contemporary lines, the Toyotomi Fan Convectors HC 20 Efficiency Lo-Line Convectors makes a welcome addition to any home, office, hospital, retirement home, library and many other locations. 

Benefits:

•Complements the highest efficiency, aquastatic controlled boilers that use low water temperatures.

•Internal thermostat control circuitry allows unit to communicate to zone valve or boiler controller – an exclusive feature that no other convector has!
•Easy to use LED display panel with built in thermostat that includes boiler when zone should come on or off based on homeowner’s desired comfort requirement.
•Variable fan speed maximizes operating efficiency and fuel savings.
•Benefit of both radiant heat and convective heat.
•Whisper quiet fan efficiently distributes heat evenly throughout the home.
•Heats an area of 300 to 1,000 square feet (heat output of 3,000 BTU per hour on low setting to 20,200 BTU per hour on high).
•Saves valuable wall space, replacing up to 37 feet of baseboard. *
•Can be installed in less than half the time of baseboard.
•10-year heat exchanger limited warranty.



Click here for PDF Manual        Click here for PDF Bracket Install Info

Call us if you have any questions at 866-432-8123 or visit www.houseneeds.com

TRIANGLE TUBE BOILERS AND TANKS NOW ON SALE

RED TAG SALE
Until Dec. 31, 2014

FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY TRIANGLE TUBE BOILERS

HAVE A $300 DISCOUNT & TANKS HAVE A $150 DISCOUNT.

 

Triangle Tube Prestige Excellence Gas Boiler with Combination Domestic Hot Water
With a Stainless Steel Sealed Combustion Wall Mounted Boiler features a uniquely designed stainless steel heat exchanger and offers efficiency in excess of 95%.
PDF Manual     PDF Brochure    PDF Venting Guide   Outdoor Temp Sensor

The Prestige Trimax Solo Gas Condensing Boilers

The Prestige High Efficiency Gas Condensing Boilers. Stainless Steel Sealed Combustion Wall Mounted Boilers features a uniquely designed stainless steel heat exchanger and offers... [Read more]

With a  Stainless Steel Sealed Combustion Wall Mounted Boilers features a uniquely designed stainless steel heat exchanger and offers efficiency in excess of 96%. The Prestige Solo Gas Boilers modulate the firing rate down to 25% of its rated input (110,000 Btu/hr) for the Solo 110. This modulation means fewer cycles resulting in lower operating costs.
    PDF Manual             PDF Brochure       PDF Operation Instructions
PDF Venting Guide        PDF Warranty          Outdoor Temp Sensor

The Triangle Tube Challenger High Efficiency Gas Boiler.
Condensing Wall Mounted Boiler features a uniquely designed  heat exchanger and offers efficiency in excess of 90%. The Challenger Gas Boilers modulate the firing rate down to around 27% of its rated input Btu. This modulation means fewer cycles resulting in lower operating costs
PDF Manual     PDF Operation Instructions    PDF Brochure   Wiring Diagram

The Triangle Tube Smart Indirect Storage Tanks is ideal for use with any hydronic or radiant heat hot water boiler system. The high quality of the design and fabrication of these complete stainless steel heaters ensure efficient, maintenance-free operation and continuous supply of hot water.
PDF Manual        PDF Warranty

Please call us if you have any questions at 866-432-8123 or go to www.houseneeds.com




Stiebel Eltron CNS-E Electric Wall Heater's

With the Stiebel Eltron CNS-E Electric Wall Heater's built-in thermostat, a single CNS-E is perfect as a stand-alone heating system in bathrooms or small rooms. Multiple CNS-E units can be placed strategically in larger spaces and their temperature settings adjusted individually for maximum comfort control. If used to replace an existing heater with a separate wall-mounted thermostat control, CNS-E heaters may be wired to use that control. Overheat protection is built into the unit.

» ATTRACTIVE SLIMLINE EUROPEAN DESIGN

» THERMOSTAT BUILT INTO UNIT

» SELECTABLE TEMPERATURE RANGE FROM 41°F – 86°F

» SPACE-SAVING ALTERNATIVE FOR BASEBOARD HEATERS

» DRAFT-FREE, SILENT OPERATION

» FROST PROTECTION SETTING

» EASY, FLEXIBLE INSTALLATION

Ideal for: » Bathrooms » Bedrooms » Basements » Offices » Playrooms » 3-Season Porches » Cabins » Mobile Homes » Baseboard Heater Replacement

 

Steibel-Eltron Electric Convection Heater - CNS 50 E - 231542

• 240/208 Volt • .5 kW • Single Phase

 

Steibel-Eltron Electric Convection Heater - CNS 75 E - 232068

• 240/208 Volt • .75 kW • Single Phase

 

Steibel-Eltron Electric Convection Heater - CNS 100 E - 231543

• 240/208 Volt • 1.0 kW • Single Phase
 

Steibel-Eltron Electric Convection Heater - CNS 150 E - 231544

• 240/208 V • 1.5 kW • Single Phase

 

Steibel-Eltron Electric Convection Heater - CNS 200 E - 231545

• 240/208 Volt • 2.0 kW • Single Phase

 

Steibel-Eltron Electric Convection Heater - CNS 240 E - 231546

• 240/208 Volt • 2.4 kW • Single Phase

 

PDF Manual           PDF Brochure             PDF Warranty

To order please visit www.houseneeds.com call us if you have questions at 866-432-8123.

 

Vent Free Space Gas Heaters

The Rinnai RCE-391A and RCE-691TA Vent Free Gas fan convection heater replace the older Silent Servant, suitable for homes, apartments, and condominiums, residential or commercial setting. These Rinna Ventless Gas Heaters are modular/mobile home approved with both forced combustion and forced convection fan convector.

Theses units are intended for supplemental heating only. The International Fuel Gas Code Standard 620-6 “Prohibited Use” states that “One or more unvented room heaters shall not be used as a sole source of comfort heating in any dwelling”. Also, Maximum Installation Elevation is 2,000 Feet and approval is USA only.
Before you purchase any of these Rinnai Vent-Free Heaters, check with your local code to make sure you can install it in your location.

Rinnai Vent-Free Fan Convector Natural Gas - FC510 NG RCE-391A NG

Rinnai Vent-Free Fan Convector Propane - FC510 LP RCE-391A LP

Rinnai Vent-Free Fan Convector Natural Gas - FC824 RCE-691TA NG

Rinnai Vent-Free Fan Convector Propane - FC824 RCE-691TA LP

Williams Furnace Company Infrared Vent Free Gas Heater allows you to watch the Infrared glow warm behind the metal grill, as the heat warm the room. The infrared ventless heater features top mounted controls and a matchless pilot ignitor. Because no electricity is required for use, you are assured of keeping warm even during a power outage.
William Gas Space Ventless Heater distributes heat evenly throughout your room and provides direct radiant heat. Ceramic plaques behind the grille gives this ventless heater its’ warm glow.
These Infrared Heaters come in 3 Btu Sizes and the two largest units can be fitted with an optional blower. The 5,000 Btu's to 30,000 Btu's of heat will warm many sized rooms. Check local codes and ordinances for permitted uses. Operating heater at elevations above 4,500 feet could result in nuisance outages.

http://www.houseneeds.com/heating/gas-space-heaters/william-ventless-infrared-gas-room-heaters

Williams Furnace Company Blue Flame Vent Free Gas Heater allows you to watch the warming blue flames from behind the safety glass, as the heat warm the room. The unit features top mounted controls and a matchless pilot ignitor. The Fuel Exchange System allows you to convert from Propane to Natural gas or Natural Gas to Propane Gas without a conversion kit. Because no electricity is required for use, you are assured of keeping warm even during a power outage. Distributes heat evenly throughout your room. The heater’s cheerful blue-flame is visible from behind the safety glass. Check local codes and ordinances for permitted uses. Operating heater at elevations above 4,500 feet could result in nuisance outages.

http://www.houseneeds.com/heating/gas-space-heaters/williams-blue-flame-gas-ventless-heating

Please call with questions or if you would like to place an order contact us at 866-432-8123.

Eskabe Direct Vent Gas Wall Heaters NOW AVAILABLE

Eskabe Direct Vent Gas Wall Heaters vent through any outside wall (up to 10 inches thick). Eskabe Heaters use outside air for combustion and the burnt gases are vented outside. Eskabe Heaters burn efficiency is approximately 80%, so you get excellent value for your fuel dollar. Each Eskabe gas wall heater INCLUDES the vent kit, so the only thing you need to do is cut a round hole through the wall (up to 10 inches thick), install the vent kit, and hook up a gas line. No special insulation or fire-proofing is required for the vent kit. Eskabe gas wall heater uses a dual-wall pipe that exhausts the hot gases through the center pipe while bringing in cooler outside air through the outside pipe.
 
Safety
Eskabe Heaters sealed combustion chamber insures a safe performance by keeping separated the heated air from gases produced through combustion, which are expelled outside. Fresh air from outdoors feeds the combustion constantly. All Eskabe gas vented wall heaters are fitted with Safety Valve that shuts off the appliance gas supply in the event that the pilot burner goes off or a gas failure occurs. Eskabe Propane Wall Heaters and Gas Wall Heaters are safe and efficient.  Electricity not required, can be used as emergency heat during power outages.
 
So - use our Eskabe Propane Heaters and Eskabe Natural Gas Heaters in bathrooms, kitchens, bedrooms, almost anywhere. Great for locations that have power outages.

Eskabe Heater Specifications:		Eskabe DVEL 12	Eskabe DVEL 20
Power input (Kcal/h)		2750	4250
Power input (KW)		3.20	4.94
Power input (Btu/h)		11000	17000
Thermostat		YES	YES
Fuel	Natural Gas (NG) or Propane (LP)
Weight		35.3	52.9
Cabinet Height		20 inches	20 inches
Cabinet Width		17 3/8 inches	27 3/8 inches
Cabinet Depth		5 13/16 inches	6 9/16 inches
Vent Opening Required		6 inches	7 inches

 

 

Please call us at 866-432-8123 if you have questions or if you would like to place an order or click here to order.

Electro Industries Electric Plenum Duct Heaters

Since 1980, the Electro-Mate™ remains the leading product certified and approved for direct furnace plenum installation. At 40% to 60% the cost of a new gas furnace, any gas or oil furnace can very easily be converted to electric heating. As a dual heat conversion, the existing furnace remains the backup
or standby unit, also providing opportunity for easily switching between fuels.
 
The patented Electro-Mate® zero-clearance electric conversion system converts your existing natural gas, LP, or oil furnace into a “Dual-fuel” (electric/gas-oil) system.  Having this ability to use lower cost electric rates and by using the most cost effective heating source available can save you hundreds of dollars off of your heating bills each year.  To understand the true cost of energy for your heating system view the electric vs. gas/oil chart.  With electric’s 100% efficiency you will be able to get an idea of the cost savings available by using electric’s off-peak rates.
 
 All of the Electro-Mates come in up flow and down flow configurations, they simply insert into the plenum above or below your existing furnace.  All thermostat control wiring is simplified and handled within the Electro-Mate.  The Electro-Mate uses the existing blower to distribute the air throughout the home thus saving the need for new air handling equipment.

WarmFlo Select SL1 Series

This unit can be used in conjunction with a single stage heat pump, with one or two-stage air conditioning, or without air conditioning. This unit is compatible with single or multi-stage gas or oil furnaces with or without variable speed blowers. This unit includes automatic dual fuel control, with manual override switch. A conventional 4-wire thermostat must be used when installing with a heat pump.

WarmFlow Select SL2 Series

This unit is specifi cally designed to be used in conjunction with 2-stage heat pump systems. This unit is compatible with single or multi-stage gas or oil furnaces, with or without variable speed blowers. This unit includes dual fuel control, with manual override switch. This unit uses a conventional 4-wire thermostat and can be confi gured to be used in 1H/1C or 2H/ 2C mode. This unit will not work with a heat pump thermostat. This unit does not apply to 1 or 2-stage air conditioning, use WarmFlo Select SL1 Series.

* No chip code selection required
* Application selection dial – HP or non-HP
* All-inclusive controls, can be used with either heat pump or air conditioning
* Modulates electric elements to maintain precise output temperature
* Quiet operation with DC relays
* Energy control selector
* Simple 4-wire conventional thermostat wiring used for both heat pump and air conditioning systems
PDF Manual                   PDF Brochure                 PDF Specs / Techs

 

EZ-Mate Series

This unit can be used in conjunction with a single stage heat pump, with one or two-stage air conditioning, or without air conditioning. This unit is compatible with single or multi-stage gas or oil furnaces with or without variable speed blowers. This unit includes automatic dual fuel control, with manual override switch. A conventional 4-wire thermostat must be used when installing with a heat pump.

* Modulates electric elements

* Plenum and outdoor temperature sensing

* Automatic switchover

* Warm air comfort

* Heating capacity determined by outdoor temperature

* Setup dial selections - HP or non-HP

* No 2nd I/F “box” required

* No chip code selection required

* Designed for both single and variable speed blowers

* Mini Demand Control or Load Shed

PDF Manual                   PDF Specs / Techs            PDF Warranty

 

HeatChoice II Series

This unit is compatible to be used with single or multi-stage gas or oil furnaces, with or without variable speed blowers. This unit can be installed with or without air conditioning. The air conditioning can be either single stage or two stage. This unit includes dual fuel control, with manual override switch. This unit cannot be used with heat pumps.

* Energy control selector (dual fuel)

* Stat override timer (SOT) 90/180 minutes or disable

* All inclusive control

* Variable speed blower connection

* Automatic switch to backup during load control
PDF Brochure
 

For additional information click here

To see an Energy Comparison Chart click here
 
 
 
  

Retrofitting with In Floor Radiant Heat & UnderFloor PEX Radiant Heating System

1. What do I need for an Existing Structure?
    To properly size most components related to your underfloor heating system we highly recommend a heat loss calculation for your project if this is your primary heat source. This is even more important with an existing house install. Why? Heat loss is a critical step, as we can estimate the average output of a radiant floor at 25 BTU’s per square foot but windows, doors, insulation, and degree days all make a major impact on getting you just what you need.
     The most common sizing mistake with in floor heat is in oversizing. This not only makes the new radiant heating system cost more to install, but also forces it to operate inefficiently, break down more often, and cost more to operate. Oversized heating equipment also often creates uncomfortable and large temperature swings in the house plus it will short cycle the hot water boiler and run outside the design parameters costing you more money.
     We are not in the business of selling equipment that you don’t need and a little work up front can save you thousands of dollars in costs over the life of your system.
2. How do I calculate my heat loss?
Heat losses can vary in houses of different ages and locations. For example, here in Vermont - a new house may have a heat loss of 25 to 30 Btu per Square Foot, a house next door built in the 1970's may be 35 to 50 Btu per square foot and a house next to this one built prior to World War II - could be a high as 100 Btu per Square Foot. Get the Math? It's hard to tell what older structures Btu heat loss is without a heat loss of something else to that tells us what we need to know.
    Have your architect or builder supply it to you as in many states like NH or CA it is required.
    Calculate it yourself using software - go back to the Heat Lost Calucator under Pex Tubing Radiant Installs. Or use one of the two different rough guides below.
Insulation Type and Climate Zone
(Please Note: We highly recommend that you do a heat loss calculation and provide the information below as a starting place)
 1)  No insulation in walls, ceilings, or floors; no storm windows; windows and doors fit loosely .... 60 to 100 BTU's per Sq. Ft.
2)  R-11 insulation in walls and ceilings; no insulation in floors over crawl spaces; no storm windows; doors and windows fit fairly tight .... 50 to 60 BTU's per Sq. Ft.
3)  R-19 insulation in walls, R-30 in ceilings, and R-11 in floors; tight-fitting storm windows or double pane windows .... 29 to 35 BTU's per Sq. Ft.
4)  "Energy Star Rated" house with R-24+ wall insulation, R-40 in ceilings, and R-19 in floor; tight-fitting storm windows or double pane windows; vapor barrier sealed carefully during construction .... 20 to 25 BTU's per Sq. Ft.
5)  SIP or Earth-sheltered house with little exposure; argon filled windows, and R40+ insulated .... 10 to 15 BTU's per Sq. Feet.

Climate Zone

Heating Sq. Footage by Climate Zone for a pre-1970's House
Houston, TX ZONE 1 --> 15 - 25 Btu's per square foot
Los Angles, CA ZONE 2 --> 25 - 30 Btu's per square foot
St. Louis, MO ZONE 3 --> 30 - 40 Btu's per square foot
New York, NY ZONE 4 --> 40 - 50 Btu's per square foot
Minneapolis, MN ZONE 4 --> 50 - 60 Btu's per square foot

Outdoor Design Temperature

The Outdoor Design Temperature (ODT), also referred to as the 2.5% design day temperature, is not the coldest day ever, but rather a temperature that is achieved 97.5% of the time.
Examples:
ODT Chicago = - 8 Degree F
ODT Denver = 1 Degree F
ODT Minnesota = -12 Degree F
ODT Washington = 17Degree F
    Simply multiply the appropriate factor above by your home's total heated square footage to arrive at your approximate required heating capacity. For example, if you live in Zone 3, your home is well insulated, and you have 2000 heated square feet, the equation will look like this:
 2000 square feet of "Energy Star" grade new construction but with lots of windows =
 35 BTU's per sq ft. is 70,000 Btu Load
    Then, to calculate the output on a hot water boiler, multiply its efficiency rating by its listed input rating for the actual Btu output of heat. An example of a medium efficiency boiler. Of course, this is a very simple way to look at efficiency - but actually, it is more complicated. Factors such as, how long does it take to get to efficiency, condensing, direct vent or not, using pex and amound of water in the boiler all effect true efficiency.
    87,000 Btu input X .86 efficiency = 73,000 Btu actual output
3. Existing Heating System  - Click here to purchase Hydronic Heating Boilers    All hot water boilers sold in the U.S. must have a rating plate. Check the rating plate and get the:
1) For Example --> 92,000 Btu Input of your Hot Water Boiler X .80 efficiency of your Boiler = 73,000 Btu actual output
2) Count the total linear footage of baseboard in the home. Multiply this number by 600 BTU’s. This will give you the BTU output at 180 Degrees F. This number should be close to the Boilers actual output.
    There are a few ways to calculate heat loss. Use the above information to get a rough idea. We strongly recommend that you download a heat loss calculator. Why? Because windows and doors make a huge difference to the heat load of your home. Once you have an idea of your requirements, we will be able to get you a quote.
4. Ways to install Radiant PEX with an existing floor
   PEX Tubing Under the Floor - Typically under hardwood or tile flooring
   PEX In Floor - Typlically in poured cement
   PEX Over Floor - Typlically using ThermalBoard, VersaTherm or Creatherm  Radiant Heat Mass
5. In Floor Radiant Heat System Slab on Grade
    For residential slabs we recommend 1/2 Inch PEX tubing to be 12 Inch on center. Along walls with lots of glass or high heat loss the PEX should be 6 Inch to 9 Inch on center on the outside walls for the first 2 feet, and 12 Inch on center everywhere else. In Floor Radiant Heat System will give you the most output Btu, but also the slowest response time.
    When figuring the over all length of tubing you will need you divide any 6 Inch spacing area by .5, divide any 9 Inch spacing area by .75 and any 12" spacing area by 1. This will give you the over all length of the PEX needed in the slab. You will need to add the length of tubing needed to get up to the pex manifold.
    Typically pex manifolds are mounted 18 Inch to 24 Inch off the slab
6. Installing PEX Tubing - click here to purchase PEX Tubing
    Following good piping practices the maximum length of each 1/2 Inch PEX tubing runs should be no longer than 300 feet (300-foot maximum is code in many places). When the pipe loops exceed 300 feet you need to use larger circulators (pumps) to maintain this temperature drop. With larger circulators initial cost is higher and they usually require twice as much electricity to run. Most good radiant installers try to limit piping loops to below 300 feet.
    There are many correct ways of installing in floor heat PEX within a slab. The best way is tying the PEX to the reinforcing mesh or rebar. When attaching the PEX Tubing to wire reinforcing mesh or rebar it is recommend that a zip tie be used every 2 feet of PEX Tubing.
    Another way to install PEX in a slab is attaching the PEX Tubing to ridged insulation. The use of insulation screw clips or large plastic staples is common.
    We recommend an insulation screw clip or staple every 2 feet if installing the tubing over insulation only (no wire mesh). If you use 2 Inch polystyrene insulation it is recommended that you use a 6 mil. polyethylene moisture barrier.
    Installing the manifolds and keeping the lines under pressure (air or water pressure) for the concrete pour is highly recommended and required by code in many locations.
7. Insulation - Click here to purchase Insulation
    Insulation is always needed with any radiant heating system and especially needed under slabs. Why, if the soil has any moisture in it the moisture will wick away the heat at a tremendous rate making your system inefficient.
    Today many radiant slabs being installed with insulation only around the perimeter. Their belief is that you should store the heat in the ground for use later. One problem with this notion is that a large portion of the heat is absorbed into the ground and never warms your home. Why do you want to pay to heat the ground? Slab Insulation is important for the entire slab.
    We recommend Slab Shield Insulation which was designed specifically for under slab applications. Manufactured using two separate layers of 1/4 Inch polyethylene foam with a pure aluminum center. This product is available in 4 Feet x 63 Feet rolls for easy application. It is simply unrolled and taped together (this is necessary for a complete vapor barrier to be achieved). With Slab-Shield there's no time wasted installing 4 Feet x 8 Feet foam boards. With a puncture resistance of 92.9psi you can work and walk on top of it without it crumbling apart.
8. Here's a rough idea of what it will cost
    Below are some pricing guidelines. These numbers are higher than most proposals, but can act as a "stand-in" as you're creating your construction budget.
    Mid Efficiency (87%+) hot water boiler: $1,500 to $3,000
    High Efficiency (95%+) hot water boiler: $2,200 to $5,500
    Per zone controls: $250.00 ea. zone
    Slab on grade Radiant: $1.20 per square
    Wood Underfloor Radiant: $1.70 Per square
    Myson radiators: $260 per 5000 BTU
People consider radiant heating for its superior economic and comfort advantages. But with energy prices rising 35%+ this year, whichever efficient system you choose, you’ll appreciate the cost savings!
  
Please visit www.Houseneeds.com or if you have any questions call 866-432-8123

 

  
 
 

Cost Examples of Heating a Typical House

Energy costs rise year after year! Cost of a barrel of Oil is expected to rise by 30 to 40% this year. Actual cost for Propane, Natural Gas, Electricity and Pellets are all going up too! So - you get the picture.
What does this mean for you?
Less money in your pocket and more in, well, you know where.
What can you do about this?
Get a high efficient heat source now!

First, let's look at the heating costs for a house with a heat loss of 65,000 Btu for a recent full heating season with several different heat sources.
Cost of Propane $1.75 and Electricity of .12 per kilowatt.
(Actual Propane Usaged was 1,250 gallons.)

Heat Source	Gallons / Kilowatts	Annual Cost	Savings (Notes)
Electric Storage Tank	36,425 kilowatts	$4,038	You would spend more than $2,091 to heat your house with an electric tank than our most efficient boiler!
Gas Storage Tank - Gravity Vent	1,700 gallons	$2,975	You would spend more than $1,028 to heat your house with an gas tank than our highest efficient boiler!
Gas Storage Tank - Power Vent	1,525 gallons	$2,668	You would spend more than $725 to heat your house with an gas tank than our most efficient boiler! Also, Can cost about $50 per month - read below *
Cast Iron Boiler - Older Hi Mass	1,675 gallons	$2,931	You would spend more than $985 to heat your house with an older Cast Iron Boiler than our most efficient boiler!
Cast Iron Boiler - New Med Mass Gravity Vent	1,412 gallons	$2,471	You would spend more than $524 to heat your house with an new Cast Iron Gravity Vent Boiler than our most efficient boiler!
Low Mass Boiler - New Hi Efficiency Direct Vent	1,112 gallons	$1,946	The best way to heat any house with a btu Heat Loss of Greater than 30,000 to 40,000 btu. Will save the most money now and more money in the future as energy prices go up. Pay Now or Pay More Later!

Now let's take a look at some Heat Sources you have to choose from.

Heat Source	Burn Efficiency	Tank Loss (Daily)	Flue Loss (Daily)	Combustion Loss	Steady State	Effective Efficiency
Electric Storage Tank	99.50%	8 to 10%	N/A	N/A	N/A	90.5%
Gas Storage Tank - Gravity Vent	80%	8 to 10%	72% to 80%	15%	N/A	37% to 45%
Gas Storage Tank - Power Vent	80%	8 to 10%	0%	15%	N/A	55%
Hi Efficiency Gas Storage Tank - Power Vent	up to 95%	8 to 10%	0%	0%	N/A	86% *
Cast Iron Boiler - Older Hi Mass	75%	N/A	N/A	15%	20 to 24 min	40 to 47%
Cast Iron Boiler - New Med Mass Gravity Vent	84%	8 to 10%	0%	0%	5 to 6 min	64%
Cast Iron Boiler - New Direct Vent	84%	8 to 10%	0%	0%	5 to 6 min	77%
Low Mass Boiler - New Direct Vent	84%	N/A	0%	0%	1 to 2 min	83%
Low Mass Boiler - New Hi Efficiency Direct Vent	95%	N/A	0%	0%	1 to 2 min	94%

Burn Efficiency	This is the steady state efficiency of the burners - this assumes at least an 8 to 24 minute burn rate for Cast Iron Boilers and 2 to 3 minutes for Stainless Steel Cooper Low Mass Boilers.
Tank Loss	This is the actual per day heat loss from the tank into the space where the tank is located. (Note: If the tank heat loss is into a non heated space or an unwanted heated space - this number should be considered. If the tank is in a location that is also heated, then this number should not be considered).
Flue Loss	Loss only to gravity vent tanks - 3 to 4% per hour depending on flue size. The bigger the flue size - the higher the heat loss. Also, the higher the btu of the tank - the higher the heat loss.
Combustion Loss	This is due to the amount of inside air that is required to furnish the burners with oxygen in an average house with average insulation. This will be higher in tighter houses and lower in looser houses. (Example - an average 80,000 btu gravity vent boiler would require 4 times additional make up air from outside per hour than a similar direct vent heater.)
Steady State	Steady State Efficiency measures how efficiently a furnace converts fuel to heat, once the furnace has warmed up and is running steadily.
Actual Efficiency	This takes all the above in to consideration. (For Example - if you think that a gas storage tank has an efficiency of 80% - you would be wrong - it is more like 37 to 45%. Terrible! Ugh! And would be 50% less efficient than a low mass direct vent high efficiency boiler.)