I posted HVAC question recently. I met my architect today and I brought up the question about heatng my new addition with radiant heated floor and possibly baseboard radiator. I started looking for radiant heat info online and could not find any complete information about hydraulic system. I read about various parts (PEX tubing, manifold, zone valves, etc.) However I still do not understand the whole system and what connects to what in what order. Can someone point me to where I can find this info? Also any useful book or other info about installing hydraulic radian heat would be appreciated.
In addition I have a couple of general questions:
- Can hydraulic radian heat under wood floors be the primary or the only source of heating? My architect said No, it can only be used or comfort, and need to be supplemented by other heat source.
- Is there way to combine boiler used for radiant heating and for hot water? My boiler is small and old and needs replacement anyway. If i decide installing radiant heat in part of my house it would be the best to use the same boiler.
- Can wood floors survive heat underneath? I know wood is extremely sensitive to temprerature.
- How expensive hydraulic radian heat vs. standard forced air gas furnace? I have electric radiant heat in my two bathrooms and kitchen under tiled floor and it is very expensive to run.
- Can the same boiler be used to heat baseboard radiators? My architect said it is the cheapest way to heat th house.
- Can hydraulic radian heat installation be DIY? Assuming there is professional layout and calculations done, it seems to me at least part of installation can be DIY.