Heated floors, particularly electric radiant floor heating (RFH) systems, are controlled either with a simple switch or automatically via a thermostat.
Understanding Heated Floor Control
The way heated floors are controlled depends largely on the type of system installed. However, the core principle involves regulating the heat output to achieve and maintain the desired room temperature.
Types of Control Systems
- Simple Switch: This is a basic on/off control. The system will either be running at full capacity or completely off. This type of control is often found in smaller, less complex installations, such as single-room electric RFH systems.
- Thermostat: A thermostat allows for automatic temperature regulation. You can set a desired temperature, and the system will cycle on and off to maintain that temperature. Modern thermostats often feature programmable settings, allowing for different temperatures at different times of the day, enhancing energy efficiency.
Electric Radiant Floor Heating (RFH) Control Details
Specifically, electric RFH systems, often used in single rooms, are controlled in two primary ways:
- Manual Control: A simple on/off switch activates the heating coils directly.
- Automatic Control: A thermostat detects the ambient temperature and regulates the heat output accordingly. This ensures the room stays at the user-defined comfort level.
Key Features of Electric RFH System Control
- Quick Heating Times: Since the heating coils are installed directly beneath the floor covering, the system heats up rapidly, allowing for quick responses to temperature changes.
- Localized Control: Given their usual single-room application, each system has it's own control point, which allows for specific room heating and more efficiency.
| Control Method | Description | Usage Scenario |
|---|---|---|
| Simple Switch | Manual on/off operation | Basic, smaller systems |
| Thermostat | Automatic temperature regulation based on a desired set point | Most homes and rooms with an RFH system for optimal comfort |
In summary, the control of heated floors ranges from simple on/off mechanisms to more sophisticated, automatic thermostat-based systems, depending primarily on the type of system installed. Electric RFH systems, often used in individual rooms, provide both basic and thermostat control options for efficient heating.
