How
It Works
It
is essential that a good layer of insulation is placed immediately below
the underfloor heating system to minimise downward heat loss and a edge
insulation is placed to prevent losses through exterior walls.
Warmafloor designed systems allow for insulation beneath the system
in both concrete and wooden floors, which should be to current building
regulations.
These are suggested materials and thickness, which can be varied to
suit the client's requirements. The better the u value of the building,
the greater degree of insulation below the system-the faster the response
time
CONCRETE FLOORS
With
Warmafloor systems installed in concrete floors, operating on a daily
basis, the response time is quite fast as the temperature drop during
'OFF' period of up to 8 hours is unlikely to exceed 3-4°c. This is
due to the thermal lag with Warmafloor heating in
concrete floors, created by the energy stored in the screed. The correct
setting of the system time controls or BMS system will maximise comfort
and economy.
In buildings such as schools were the system may be off over a weekend
the controls should be set so that the heating 'on' time is earlier on
the Monday to allow for the thermal lag effect. Timber Floors with timber,
floating or suspended floors of timber construction the response time
is much faster and more similar to a radiator system.
Good insulation is essential which must be fitted as close to the underside
of the system as possible. Where it is necessary to have an air gap between
the system and insulation there should be no air movement.
With wooden suspended ground floors, which have a void below, the design should be such to prohibit any air movement between the insulation and the underfloor system. The systems efficiency will be greatly reduced by any air currents no matter how small, which reduces system efficiency. Design advice should always be sought.
Warmafloor UK. Concorde House, Concorde Way, Segensworth North,
Fareham, Hampshire, PO15 5RL
TEL : 01489 581787 FAX: 01489 576444
