Oasis HVAC, based in nearby St. Clair Shores, has been proudly serving our friends and neighbors in Clinton Township for nearly 20 years. In that time, we have seen the growing popularity of radiant floor heating systems for homeowners looking for a long-term, efficient solution to their heating needs that adds value without changing the appearance of their interiors.
Fair and Transparent Pricing and Timelines
We have worked in Clinton Township and surrounding towns since 2008, so we not only know what these systems cost to install in your home, after completing dozens of systems in Clinton Township alone, we are able to give a precise estimate. When you get an estimate, you can rest easy knowing there will be no hidden fees or delays.
Expert Service
All of our supervising technicians are certified mechanical contractors and have experience with multiple HVAC system types to ensure that we can propose any radiant floor heating system based on fit, rather than our capabilities.
Locally Owned and Operated
Unlike franchises of a major corporation, Oasis HVAC is staffed by and run by Michiganders who know the Southeast part of the state like the back of our mitten. We work to design heating systems that can beat cold winters and match the designs of Clinton Township homes.
The Oasis Radiant Floor Heating System Install Process
Assessment
The first step is always to make sure that we know exactly what your heating goals are and whether you have existing spaces in your home that are at issue. We take note of construction styles, existing heat sources and number of floors to ensure that your Clinton Twp. home receives the tailored system for your budget and needs.
| Oasis Top Tip |
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| Split-Levels |
| The split-levels off Wellington Crescent and elsewhere are prime candidates for electric pads in addition to hydronic main systems, with the electrics set up on the upper floor of the split. We try to avoid using dual-zoned systems here because of the relatively small coverage area required. |
Design
Sometimes the design stage begins during the assessment process. For example, recently constructed homes may not need additional equipment or special care: a hydronic or electric system is usually enough to handle the coldest of Detroit winters. However, when there are multiple stories or differences in construction materials, we make note of that in our plans.
| Oasis Top Tip |
|---|
| Brick Ranches |
| Many times, we can avoid using a secondary heating system at all with the homes off of 16 Mile as long as the insulation is strong enough, which we check during our initial assessment. Much of our work will use existing furnace vents, etc. |
Preparation
When we come on the first day of the project, our main goals are to maintain as much of the flooring as the homeowner wants to keep after the new radiant heating system is installed and also to assess the property to minimize impact. This can include steps like inspecting slab foundations for any cracks, existing exhaust outlets from furnaces that can be used for hydronic boilers, and so forth. Once that is completed, we finish removing the flooring and get ready to place the system.
Installation
The steps of installation are mostly the same regarding electric versus hydronic systems:
- Lay electric mats or hydronic system pipes in rooms that have been marked for system heating;
- Test each component to ensure that it has no cracks, fissures, or other issues
- Begin connecting wiring harnesses or piping to each other and then the heating elements for hydronic systems
| Oasis Top Tip |
|---|
| Multi-story homes with brick facades |
| The installation process can take somewhat longer with multi-story homes and not just because of the additional square footage: we offer homeowners two choices, either using a hydronic base system for the first floor and electric mats for upstairs, or a two-stage system that accounts for brick first-floor facades heating up the downstairs and retaining heat better. |
Testing and Handoff
The final stage is usually the shortest but is no less important. We turn on the system, which takes about an hour for electrical systems to come up fully and a bit longer for hydronic systems. We inspect the entire home for points of excess heat, moisture, or leakage. Then we show the various features of the system to the homeowner so that they can maximize the usage of their comfortable new heating via single or multi-thermostat settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of radiant floor heating systems are available?
The two main types of radiant floor heating systems are hydronic, where warm water flows underneath the floor, and electric, where heated elements provide the warmth to increase temperatures. The former is a great fit for larger homes or single-story dwellings, while electric mats have their place in smaller rooms.
How much will it cost to install a radiant floor heating system in my home?
Cost can be hard to determine based on the different factors noted in the installation process above. Roughly speaking, electric systems can cost up to $15 per square foot while hydronic radiant floor heating systems range from $10 to $25 per square foot. Factors that play a role include whether the existing flooring will be retained and additional desired features.
How efficient is a radiant heating system compared to other options in Michigan homes?
Homeowners generally have two options for Michigan home heating: heat the air that is moved around a house or heat a fluid/solid object with radiant systems. The latter is often more efficient in terms of costs because there is less heat loss in ducting and fluids retain heat more easily.
Are there flooring types that won’t work with radiant heating systems?
Yes and no. Radiant systems work best with tile and stone flooring, both of which operate as excellent heat conductors. When it comes to hardwood and carpeted floors, it is important to get a radiant heat system installed by an experienced contractor who can recommend flooring and insulation options that won’t warp or reduce efficiency.
How long will installation take?
The length of installation depends on the complexity of the system and the flooring involved. If you are adding a simple set of electric pads to a bathroom, it might be done in a day. A more involved hydronic system that covers multiple floors might require a week depending on what type of flooring is involved, etc.
Is radiant floor heating safe for small children and pets?
Radiant floor heating is safer for children and small pets than existing radiant systems that use boilers, so there is less burn risk. Overall, it can be safer for pets and children because the air is not dried out, reducing particulate and allergen risk in older homes.
What kind of maintenance do radiant floor heating systems require?
Radiant heat systems are usually lower-maintenance than traditional furnaces because less of the system is exposed to the elements. For example, the ducts of a furnace have to take in outside air, heat it, and filter it. Once installed, a hydronic or electric radiant system can last up to 20 to 35 years with annual inspections for leaks or other signs of an issue.
Get Your Radiant Floor Heating System Quote
Oasis HVAC has been serving Clinton Township from nearby St. Clair Shores for nearly 20 years. If you have not already seen our vans and work trucks and uniformed personnel, you will soon find out what a difference having licensed and certified contractors with years of experience can provide in terms of customized radiant floor heating systems for your homes.
As we work with homeowners, we find that our combination of local knowledge, local ownership and local standards of excellence help provide a level of confidence for homeowners looking to upgrade their heating systems. If you want to learn more about the Oasis difference, fill out the short form to schedule your assessment today.
