In-floor radiant heat for a second home
Point
| Posted in Energy, Heating & Insulation on
I plan to build a second home in the Adirondacks of NY in the coming year. My Architect has suggested in floor radiant heat delivered by pumping a warm fluid through pex tubes from a boiler. I have read nothing but wonderful things about the comfort that radiant heat provides; however I am concerned that this type of heat might not be wise for a second home in the cold upstate NY climate where the home owner will be absent most of the winter. (This second home may become our permanent home upon retirement.) Simply put, any type of fluid scares me in such a cold climate if I am not present. Need I be concerned? Any suggestions?
Replies
I've heard of some people adding anti-freeze to hydronic heating systems.
Scott.
We are Custom Homebuilders in Upstate NY and have used radiant heat for some time now with no problems. I would suggest a glycol filled system for extra protection. We specialize in super insulation homes, and usually with these homes I would recommend keeping heat set at a temp around 50 degrees while you are away. Cost is minimal and no need to completely winterize if planned properly. If cost allows install a backup generator system, utilize some passive solar into the design for supplemental heat.
What area are you building in?
Willsboro in Essex County.
Do you have a web site?
Point
Right now, no I don't. I had one, but wasn't happy with it, and am in the process of getting a new one built. We have been in business for a little over 30 years, specialize in custom homes featuring spray foam insulations, passive and active solar, radiant heat,etc.Currently, we are working in Oswego, NY on the new student housing project "The Village" a multi building complex using SIPS wall construction. We have the framing contract including the SIPS system installation. I have some pictures posted in the Photo section here at Breaktime.
I built a second home in NH and used radiant heat in the floors. I keep the place set a 50 when away. Heat is suppied by a wall hung propane boiler and I use around 250 gal/year to heat it. 1600 sq ft with a drive under garage. SIP construction. I have antifreeze in the lines just in case but it hasn't been an issue so far. I do have my alarm system set to alert me when temps get below 40 in the house and I can also turn the heat on to an occupied mode via the alarm so it is warm when I (or a guest) arrive.
Overall I am very happy with the system.