Best Flooring Over Hydronic Radiant Heat (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for the best flooring over hydronic radiant heat, it’s important to consider a few factors before making your decision. Hydronic radiant heat systems are becoming a popular heating solution for many homes because they are energy-efficient and provide a comfortable, consistent warmth. However, not all flooring materials are suitable for this type of heating system.
One of the key factors to consider when choosing flooring for hydronic radiant heat is the material’s thermal conductivity. Some types of flooring, such as ceramic tile and natural stone, are good at conducting heat and work well with radiant heating systems. Other materials, such as carpet and hardwood, can insulate the heat and may not be the best option for this type of heating system. Another important factor is the installation process. Some flooring options require specialized installation methods to ensure they are compatible with radiant heat, which can add to the overall cost and time involved in the project.
Are you concerned about the cost of your heating bills? Do you want to ensure that your flooring is energy-efficient and works well with your hydronic radiant heat system? If so, choosing the right flooring material is crucial. In this article, we will discuss the best types of flooring for hydronic radiant heat systems and what factors you need to consider before making your decision. Whether you’re building a new home or renovating an existing one, choosing the right flooring can make a significant difference in the comfort and efficiency of your space.
10 Best Flooring Over Hydronic Radiant Heat
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This product is ideal for electric floor heating in areas up to 20 square feet with a programmable thermostat.
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This product is ideal for heating engineered and solid hardwood floors.
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This product is ideal for providing electric heat, water proofing, and crack isolation for tile or stone flooring in home bathrooms or saunas.
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This product is ideal for installing electric radiant floor heating systems under tile, underfloor, and infloor.
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The product is ideal for providing underfloor heating for a room through an electric mat and programmable thermostat.
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Ideal for heating floors up to 150 sq ft with a GFCI touchscreen thermostat, floor alarm, multi-meter and installation accessories.
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Ideal for adding radiant floor heating to large rooms or areas with flexibility in installation and voltage requirements.
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It is an ideal floor heating system for under tile, stone, and laminate with an alarm, thermostat, and sensor.
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The product is ideal for providing electric floor heating for small to medium-sized rooms.
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The product is ideal for controlling and evenly distributing radiant heat in a two-zone area.
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1. Suntouch Electric Floor Heating Kit With Command Touch Thermostat
The WIRE KIT 20 SQFT COVERAGE is an efficient and reliable solution to keep your floors warm and dry. The kit comes with a 120 volt floor heating wire that covers a 20 square foot area when installed with 3 inch spacing, a SunStat Pro II programmable thermostat, cable strap, and double-sided tape.
Safety is a top priority with the WIRE KIT 20 SQFT COVERAGE. It features dual wire technology that reduces electromagnetic fields (EMF) to ultra-low levels, ensuring safe usage. Additionally, the kit includes a LoudMouth installation monitor and an in-depth installation manual, making it easy to install. It is UL Listed, meaning it has been tested and approved by a trusted third-party organization for safety and quality assurance.
The installation process is fast and simple, thanks to the installation kit that contains everything needed for a quick and economical setup of a radiant heat flooring system. The electric floor-warming system provides heat to warm the floors in bathrooms, kitchens, and entryways, making them dry and safe.
The WIRE KIT 20 SQFT COVERAGE is manufactured by the award-winning Watts Radiant, whose products lead the industry in North America. With their quality-driven approach, the WIRE KIT 20 SQFT COVERAGE is a reliable and efficient way to keep your floors warm and dry.
In addition to its excellent quality, the WIRE KIT 20 SQFT COVERAGE comes with a lifetime warranty. The Electric Floor-warming Products 25-year Limited warranty from the manufacturer ensures that you can rely on this product for years to come.
2. Warmstep Hardwood Floor Heating Mat.
The product is designed for easy installation, using the same method as floor covering. It is approved for use with floors that are installed with glue, nails, fasteners, or floating floors. Unlike traditional heating systems, there is no need for cement or mortar, making installation a breeze.
One of the standout features of this product is its ability to provide all the health advantages of radiant heat. This means that there are no drafts or blowing of dust, dirt, or allergens. This is great news for anyone with sensitivity to these types of irritants.
In addition to the health benefits, this product is also highly energy-efficient. It can save up to 40% over convection type heating systems, meaning that it can help to reduce your energy bills and your carbon footprint.
Once the product is properly installed and operated, it is designed to last for the life of the floor. This means that you can enjoy the benefits of this product for years to come, without having to worry about replacing it any time soon.
3. Snap Warmfloor: Waterproof Heat For Stone & Tile
This polypropylene composite uncoupling membrane for heated floors is the perfect addition to your home improvement project. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast, a handyman, or a professional contractor, this product, proudly made by a USA Seller, is of premium quality and will provide the supreme interior floor warming application that you need.
The radiant heated dimple uncoupling membrane is versatile and can be used with any thinset mortar. Its professional-grade polyethylene sheet and anchoring fleece underside make it easy to lay on top of concrete, wood, OSB, backer board, cement or cement board, or gypsum. You can use it in your bath, shower, sauna, steam room, master bath, hallways, or anywhere you want to lay stone or tiles.
Snap Products, a California-based American home improvement materials company, is known for its brand name quality and high standards. They make sure all their products are made with new, virgin polyethylene synthetic polymer, providing strong adhesion and multi-layered waterproof protection. This uncoupling and waterproofing membrane with an integrated bonding fleece roll is no exception.
Installation is easy with this tile underlayment membrane. Its easy snap grid allows heated cable to easily snap into place while increasing heat retention. The underside anchoring fleece allows direct application on various surfaces with any unmodified thin set mortar. The membrane is super thick, strong, and durable, measuring 0.25” thick. It is designed to work with heated floor cables to create warm tile floors, and also provides sound reduction and control, a thermal break, and vapor barrier.
Snap Products stands behind all of their products and guarantees your satisfaction. They know that you demand a product that can hold up in all situations and exceed your expectations. They are confident that you will love their quality and competitive prices, making them your new name brand choice. The large roll measures 3.3 ft x 33 ft (1m x 10m), providing a total of 108 square feet.
4. Heatmate 240v Electric Underfloor Heating System
LuxHeat's electric floor heating system provides luxury and comfort to any home. The system is quick and easy to install, and includes a 180sqft (240 volt) Heating Mat plus Floor Sensor, excluding a thermostat. The electric floor heating mat is pre-spaced, which reduces installation time by up to 75% when compared to conventional loose-lay cable systems. The LuxHeat floor heating system is ideally suited for installation under tiles, laminate, and more. However, heating wires must be embedded in a self-leveling underlayment, thinset, or mortar.
The combination of self-adhesive mesh and double-sided tape makes the mat versatile. The mesh can be cut and flipped or rotated to provide warmth where it's needed. Heating wires can also be removed from the mesh to reach difficult areas. However, it is important to note that the heater wire should not be cut or shortened.
The LuxHeat team has over 50 years of experience in the floor heating industry, providing high-quality products backed by unparalleled customer service. The LuxHeat 25 Year limited warranty ensures peace of mind and performance for many years to come.
The LuxHeat Dual wire technology with aluminum shield reduces electromagnetic fields (EMF) to ultra-low levels. All LuxHeat cables are UL certified and listed as safe for wet locations. The heating wires are 1/8" in diameter, which ensures minimal effect on finished floor level. The mat size is 180 Sqft (20"wide x 109.8ft long), with a voltage of 240, amps of 9.0, and watts of 2160 at 12w/sqft.
5. Command Touch Tapemat: Warmth At Your Feet.
Introducing the Electric Underfloor Heated TapeMat, an easy-to-install heating solution for homes and commercial buildings. This versatile mat can be installed beneath tile, stone, wood, or laminate flooring, and can be customized to fit any space.
Measuring at 2.0 feet x 15.0 feet, this 30 square feet mat features a 1/8 inch thick cable and works with 120 volt AC power. The mesh can be easily cut with scissors and flipped, while the blue wire can be pulled out and run around obstructions and awkward spaces for a seamless installation.
The kit includes everything needed for a successful installation, including a touchscreen programmable thermostat, a floor sensor, double-sided tape, a LoudMouth installation monitor, and an instruction manual. The double-sided tape adheres to the subfloor and lays flat for fast layout, allowing for a safe and easy one-step application with thin-set or self-leveler.
The LoudMouth monitor is an added bonus, with an on/off switch and indicator lights, a test button with an audible alarm, and a 9 volt battery included.
With the Electric Underfloor Heated TapeMat, enjoy a warm and cozy floor all year round, without any hassle or fuss. This reliable and efficient heating solution is perfect for any space, and the easy installation process ensures that anyone can enjoy the benefits of underfloor heating.
6. Touchscreen Floor Heating With Alarm & Accessories
This heating cable is perfect for those who are looking for a reliable and efficient solution to keep their floors warm and dry during colder months. The cable is specifically designed for use in wet locations, making it a great choice for bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas where moisture is present. The heating element profile is impressively thin, measuring only about 1/8" thick, which means it won't add bulk to your floors.
The manufacturer of this heating cable has over 20 years of experience in the industry, so you can trust that you're getting a high-quality product that's been designed for longevity. The cable is ETL listed for use in both the United States and Canada, and it comes with a limited lifetime warranty on the heating element and a 3-year limited warranty on the thermostat.
This complete kit includes everything you need for installation, including testing and monitoring devices, mounting and installation hardware, and a trowel. The kit also comes with a GFCI programmable touchscreen thermostat with a floor sensor, which helps to maximize efficiency and ensure that your floors stay at the perfect temperature.
With a coverage area of 150 square feet, this heating cable is suitable for larger rooms and spaces. It operates on 120 volts and has an amperage of 15, which translates to 1800 watts of power. The cable has 15 ft cold leads and provides 12 watts per square foot of coverage. It measures 20 inches wide and comes in two lengths: 42.7 feet long and 48.8 feet long.
7. Tempzone™ Flex Roll 240v 3′ X 48′, 144 Sq.ft., 9.0a
This electric radiant floor heating system by WarmlyYours is the perfect solution for homeowners looking to add a touch of luxury to their homes without significantly raising the floor height. Designed for use underneath ceramic tile, natural stone, nailed hardwood, or wood, this system consists of a heating cable secured with double-sided tape onto a fiber-glass mesh with serpentine loops.
With cable loops that are 3" apart and 15 watts per sq. ft., this system delivers even heating throughout flooring areas, leaving no cold spots in bathrooms, dressing areas, and other smaller spaces. The cable has a 1/8" low profile twin conductor and 1 return lead, making it super thin and perfect for homeowners looking for a sleek, minimalist design.
Rest assured that this electric radiant floor heating system has been tested and is safe for use, as it is cULus Listed. Plus, WarmlyYours offers a 25-year warranty that covers both parts and labor, as well as 24/7 lifetime installation and technical support. To make installation a breeze, WarmlyYours also offers free installation plans.
Say goodbye to cold floors and hello to luxurious warmth with this electric radiant floor heating system by WarmlyYours.
8. Luxheat Floor Heating Kit: The Ultimate Comfort Solution.
LuxHeat's Electric Floor Heating System is the perfect solution to add luxury and comfort to any room. The heating kit includes an 80 Sqft (120 volt) Self-Adhesive Heating Mat, Cable monitor/Alarm, OJ Microline UDG4-4999 Programmable Thermostat with Floor Sensor and Built-in GFCI (Ground Fault Protection).
Installation is easy with the 3" Pre-spaced Electric Floor Heating Mat that can be cut & turned, flipped or rotated to provide warmth exactly where you need it. With Self-adhesive mesh on one side and double sided tape on the other, the mat adheres to the sub-floor and lays flat even when flipped. Please note that red heater wire should not be cut or shortened. Heating wires MUST be embedded in a self-leveling underlayment, thinset or mortar.
The LuxHeat team has over 50 years of experience in the floor heating industry, providing unparalleled customer service and a wide range of heating products. The LuxHeat 25 Year limited warranty gives peace of mind and assurance of performance for many years to come.
The OJ Microline's UDG4-4999 Touchscreen Programmable Thermostat provides a sleek modern design with intuitive control, making it easy to install and easy to use. The 120 Volt, 15 amp thermostat includes an integrated Class A GFCI (ground fault protection) and features Dual sensing(AF), Power logging, Child lock, self-learning and more. The 7-Day Program Schedule provides maximum comfort while reducing operating costs. Includes a 3-year Factory Warranty and is cULus approved for USA & Canada.
The mat size is 80 Sqft (20"wide x 48.8ft long), with a voltage of 120, amps of 8.0, and watts of 960 at 12w/sqft. The LuxHeat Dual wire technology with aluminum shield reduces electromagnetic fields (EMF) to ultra-low levels. All LuxHeat Cables are UL certified and listed as Safe for Wet locations. The heating wires are 1/8" in diameter, ensuring minimal effect on finished floor level.
9. Environ Electric Floor Heating Roll, 24 Sq. Ft. (1.5' X 16'), Grey
The WarmlyYours Environ Electric Radiant Floor Heating Flex Roll is an excellent option for adding radiant comfort to larger rooms. This 24 sq. ft. roll can be installed easily under carpet, laminate, engineered wood, or floating wood floors without requiring any adhesive. This makes it a great choice for those looking to add wall-to-wall coverage without any hassle.
One of the key benefits of the Environ Electric Radiant Floor Heating Flex Roll is that it can be cut and turned to fit any room shape. The cable loops are 3" apart and provide even heating throughout flooring areas, delivering a "blanket-like" warmth from under your floors. This means there won't be any uncovered spots of floor in the room, ensuring that you enjoy the full benefits of radiant comfort.
The Environ Electric Radiant Floor Heating Flex Roll is also super thin, with a low profile of just 1/16". This allows you to add luxurious in-floor heating without significantly raising the floor height. It's ideal for adding warmth and comfort to your soft carpet or laminate and floating floors.
Furthermore, the Environ Electric Radiant Floor Heating Flex Roll has been tested and is safe to use. It is cULus Listed, which means that it has been certified by a third-party testing agency to meet safety standards.
10. 2-Zone Preassembled Radiant Heat Distribution/control Panel System
The product being offered requires a direct phone number for its efficient delivery. With its attractive space-saving design, it maximizes the interior functionality without compromising style. This product is an excellent investment as it saves both time and money. Its energy-efficient heating system is guaranteed to provide warmth while keeping the electricity bill low. Installation is made more straightforward and hassle-free with its simplified process.
The product's design is carefully crafted to fit perfectly in any home or office space. It is engineered to provide optimum functionality without taking up too much space. Its sleek and modern design will undoubtedly add a touch of sophistication to any room while providing a cozy atmosphere.
One of the most significant advantages of this product is its ability to save time and money. It is designed to deliver efficient heating while keeping energy consumption low. This feature helps cut down on electricity bills, making it an excellent investment for the long run.
This product is also energy-efficient, ensuring that it provides warmth without compromising the environment. With its energy-efficient heating system, it is guaranteed to warm any room in no time, providing the ultimate comfort.
The product's installation process is made more straightforward and hassle-free. The simplified process ensures that the installation is smooth and quick. It does not require any complicated procedures, making it easy for anyone to install.
Best Flooring Over Hydronic Radiant Heat FAQs
Are carpet and padding a good option for homes with hydronic radiant heat?
Carpet and padding can be a good option for homes with hydronic radiant heat, but it's important to choose the right materials to avoid any potential issues. Hydronic radiant heat systems use hot water circulating through pipes under the floor to warm the room, and carpet can help to insulate the floor and retain heat. However, thicker carpets and dense padding can impede heat flow and reduce the efficiency of the system.
To ensure the best results, it's recommended to choose low-pile carpeting with a maximum thickness of 1/2 inch and a low R-value padding of no more than 3/8 inch. This will allow for proper heat transfer and maintain the efficiency of the hydronic radiant heat system. It's also important to ensure that the carpet and padding are installed correctly to prevent any damage to the heating system or the flooring. Consulting with a professional installer who is experienced with hydronic radiant heat systems can help to ensure a successful installation.
Are cork and bamboo flooring options suitable for hydronic radiant heat?
Yes, cork and bamboo flooring options are suitable for hydronic radiant heat. Both materials are known for their natural insulating properties, which make them great choices for use with radiant heating systems.
Cork flooring is made from the bark of cork oak trees and is a popular choice for environmentally conscious homeowners. It has a high resistance to moisture and is naturally insulating, making it a great option for use with hydronic radiant heating.
Bamboo flooring is made from the fast-growing bamboo plant and is another eco-friendly flooring option. It is also naturally insulating and has a high resistance to moisture, making it a suitable choice for use with radiant heating systems.
It is important to note that when installing cork or bamboo flooring with hydronic radiant heat, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer's installation instructions carefully. This will help ensure that the flooring is installed correctly and will perform optimally with the heating system.
Can solid hardwood flooring be installed over hydronic radiant heat?
Yes, solid hardwood flooring can be installed over hydronic radiant heat, but it requires careful consideration and installation techniques. Hydronic radiant heat is a system that uses hot water to heat the floor, and it is becoming an increasingly popular choice for homeowners due to its energy efficiency and comfort. However, solid hardwood flooring can be sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity, and it can expand or contract with changes in moisture levels.
To install solid hardwood flooring over hydronic radiant heat, it is important to choose a species of wood that is stable and appropriate for the environment. It is also important to acclimate the wood to the room's temperature and humidity levels before installation. Additionally, the subfloor and radiant heat system should be properly installed and tested to ensure that they are functioning correctly and do not damage the hardwood flooring.
It is recommended to consult with a flooring professional who has experience with installing solid hardwood flooring over hydronic radiant heat to ensure a successful installation.
Can vinyl flooring be installed over hydronic radiant heat?
Yes, vinyl flooring can be installed over hydronic radiant heat. However, it is important to ensure that the flooring is compatible with the heating system and that proper installation techniques are followed to avoid any damage to the flooring or heating system.
Vinyl flooring is a good option for radiant heating systems because it is a good conductor of heat and can transfer the heat from the heating system to the surface of the floor. However, it is important to choose a vinyl flooring that is specifically designed for use with radiant heating systems.
When installing vinyl flooring over hydronic radiant heat, it is important to follow the manufacturer's installation instructions carefully, as well as any special instructions for installation over a radiant heating system. This may include using a specific adhesive, installing an underlayment, or using a specific type of vinyl flooring.
Overall, vinyl flooring can be a great option for use with hydronic radiant heating systems, as long as proper installation techniques are followed and the flooring is compatible with the heating system.
Is laminate flooring a good choice for homes with hydronic radiant heat?
Yes, laminate flooring is a good choice for homes with hydronic radiant heat. Laminate flooring is made of several layers of synthetic material fused together using heat and pressure. These layers are designed to provide durability, stability, and resistance to moisture, which makes it perfect for areas where there is a risk of water damage.
Hydronic radiant heating systems work by circulating hot water through pipes installed underneath the flooring. Laminate flooring is an excellent choice for this type of heating system because it is a good conductor of heat and can quickly warm up the room. Unlike hardwood flooring, which can shrink or expand due to changes in temperature and humidity, laminate flooring is more stable and less likely to warp or buckle.
However, it's crucial to ensure that the laminate flooring you choose is compatible with your hydronic radiant heating system. It should have a low thermal resistance rating and be able to withstand the heat generated by the system. It's also essential to follow the manufacturer's installation instructions to prevent damage to the floor or the heating system.
What are the advantages of using concrete flooring over hydronic radiant heat?
Concrete flooring has several advantages over hydronic radiant heat. Firstly, concrete flooring is extremely durable and long-lasting. It can withstand heavy foot traffic, machinery, and even harsh weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas.
Secondly, concrete flooring is low maintenance and easy to clean. Unlike other flooring materials, it doesn't require regular polishing or waxing, and can be easily cleaned with a damp mop or a simple cleaning solution.
Thirdly, concrete flooring is an excellent thermal mass material. It has the ability to absorb and store heat, which makes it an ideal choice for homes in colder climates. This means that the concrete flooring can help keep the home warm and cozy during the winter months, without the need for additional heating systems.
Lastly, concrete flooring is cost-effective. It is a relatively inexpensive material compared to other flooring options, and the installation process is also relatively simple and straightforward.
Overall, concrete flooring is a great choice for homeowners who are looking for a durable, low-maintenance, and cost-effective flooring option that can also help keep their home warm and comfortable.
What are the best installation practices for flooring over hydronic radiant heat systems?
When installing flooring over hydronic radiant heat systems, there are several best practices that should be followed to ensure a successful installation. Firstly, it is important to choose a flooring material that is compatible with the radiant heat system. Materials such as ceramic tile, natural stone, and engineered hardwood are good options as they conduct heat well and are less likely to expand and contract with changes in temperature.
It is also important to ensure that the subfloor is properly prepared. The subfloor should be clean, level, and free of any debris. A layer of thinset mortar or self-leveling compound may be necessary to create a smooth and level surface.
When installing the flooring, it is recommended to use a floating installation method rather than adhesive. This allows the flooring to expand and contract as necessary without damaging the radiant heat system.
Finally, it is important to follow the manufacturer's installation instructions and consult with a professional if necessary. With proper installation practices, flooring can be successfully installed over hydronic radiant heat systems to create a comfortable and efficient heating system.
What are the potential drawbacks of using hardwood flooring over hydronic radiant heat?
While hardwood flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners, it may not be the best option when it comes to using hydronic radiant heat. One of the potential drawbacks of hardwood flooring over hydronic radiant heat is that the wood can expand and contract due to changes in temperature and humidity. This can result in gaps between the boards, which can be unsightly and may impact the functionality of the radiant heating system.
Another potential drawback of using hardwood flooring over hydronic radiant heat is that it may reduce the efficiency of the heating system. Hardwood flooring can act as an insulator, which means that it may take longer for the heat to radiate through the flooring and into the room.
Finally, hardwood flooring can be more expensive than other flooring options that are better suited for use with hydronic radiant heat, such as tile or concrete. This means that homeowners may need to spend more money upfront to install the hardwood flooring and may also need to spend more on maintenance and repairs over time.
What flooring options are best suited for hydronic radiant heat?
When it comes to hydronic radiant heat, it's important to choose flooring options that can conduct and store heat efficiently. Some of the best flooring options for hydronic radiant heat include ceramic tile, hardwood, and luxury vinyl tile.
Ceramic tile is an excellent choice for hydronic radiant heat because it conducts heat well and can store it for a long time, providing a consistent and comfortable temperature. Hardwood is also a great option because it is a natural insulator and can transfer heat effectively. However, it is important to choose a hardwood species that is stable and less prone to warping or shrinking due to changes in temperature and humidity.
Luxury vinyl tile is another popular flooring option for hydronic radiant heat because it is durable, easy to clean, and can transfer heat well. It is also available in a wide range of styles and colors, making it a versatile option for any home.
Ultimately, the best flooring option for hydronic radiant heat will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It's always a good idea to consult with a professional installer to ensure that your flooring choice is compatible with your heating system and will provide optimal performance.
What types of tile are safe to use over hydronic radiant heat?
When it comes to installing tile over a hydronic radiant heat system, it's important to choose a type of tile that can withstand the heat and won't crack or warp. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are the most commonly used types of tile for this purpose since they are durable, water-resistant, and can handle the fluctuations in temperature that come with a radiant heat system. Both porcelain and ceramic tiles come in a variety of colors, patterns, and finishes, making it easy to find a style that matches your aesthetic preferences. Natural stone tiles, such as granite, marble, and limestone, can also be used over radiant heat, but it's important to choose a stone that has a low thermal conductivity to prevent it from cracking. In general, it's best to avoid using glass or metal tiles over radiant heat since they can be prone to cracking or warping. Ultimately, it's important to consult with a professional installer to ensure that the tile you choose is compatible with your specific radiant heat system.
