Frequently Asked Questions

Nuheat is an Electric Radiant Floor Heating mat that is a pre-built and ready to install in the floor right out of the box; heated floors are that easy! Thin electric floor heating elements are sandwiched within a durable fabric mat. At only 1/8" in thickness, these mats will give your warm tiles in virtually any remodeling or new construction project. When electricity is supplied to the mats, the electric resistance warms up the wires and the flooring above. Nuheat produces 12 watts per square foot (or 41 BTU) at full power producing a floor temperature of 80 - 90 degrees Fahrenheit (27 - 32 degrees Celsius) depending on the type of application and heat loss. And Nuheat is an economical floor heating system.

With 120 different mats available in either 120 or 240 volts there is a Nuheat Mat or combination of mats that will provide you with years of comfortable floor heating. And, all sizes are in stock at Warm Your Floor. Every one, every day.

Who makes Nuheat?

Nuheat Industries Ltd is a premier manufacturer of both standard and custom radiant electric floor heating mats. Based in Vancouver, BC, Canada, Nuheat is a leader in electric radiant floor heating systems. Nuheat offers the affordable luxury of warm floors and barefoot comfort that any homeowner can enjoy and allows homeowners to maximize energy efficiency, reduce utility costs, while enjoying warm floors in the rooms where they are spending their time.

In what rooms is Nuheat usually installed?

Nuheat is perfect for master bathrooms, kitchens, kid's bathrooms, mudrooms, sunrooms and family rooms; really, any room where you spend time and would appreciate a warm floor. Many customers tell us that the Master Bathroom is installed first and then the desire for more heated floors spreads to other rooms.

Is Nuheat installed only in extremely cold climates?

Nuheat has heated floors throughout North America. California and Florida have many warm floors, thanks to Nuheat. Concrete slabs are cold no matter where you are and Nuheat's pre-built heating mats can eliminate the cold feet associated with cold floors.

How long is the Nuheat Warranty?

Nuheat offers an excellent warranty on all radiant floor heating mats. Nuheat Industries Limited warrants each Nuheat mat that it manufactures to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of 25 years from the date of purchase. Read More

Where do I buy Nuheat?

Choose the Radiant Floor Heating Experts - Buy Right Here .Warm Your Floor stocks every size of Nuheat mats in both 120v and 240v, as well as ALL controls and accessories for your floor heating project.

How is Nuheat installed?

Installing Nuheat is easy. The electric floor heat mats are ready fit right out of the box and are installed on top of the subfloor right under the flooring. Whether a standard size (square or rectangular shaped) or custom-made to fit your room (with angles and curves), Nuheat's electric floor heat mats are ready for any project, whether it's a new tile floor in the bathroom and kitchen or a laminate wood floor in the family room, you do not need to string out, cut or splice any heating wires to do the job. The heating wires are bonded between two sheets of durable fabric. This allows the tile setter to lay the tile without the worry of moving the heating wires causing cold or hot spots on the floor after the job is completed. A 10' Power lead comes off one corner and is to be connected to the LOAD side of the Thermostat.

The steps are the same for any room; the only differences are dependent on the type of flooring. This is a summary of instructions; but read the Installation Manual included with your order for complete instructions. And remember to check the resistance readings with your multimeter often.

NEVER connect the Nuheat mat to power until installation is COMPLETE.

Tile, Stone or marble floors Once your subfloor is prepared:

1. Simply apply a layer of thinset (acrylic/Latex modified) with your trowel
2. Place the Nuheat electric floor heat mat into the thinset bed. Nuheat mats can be laid with either side up. Press the Nuheat mat into the fresh thinset bed to ensure full contact and adhesion. Install sensor wire.
3. Apply another layer of thinset on top of the Nuheat
4. Lay your tile, stone or marble
5. Connect the Nuheat mats & the floor heating thermostat (qualified electrician recommended) Allow the thinset to cure (per the thinset mortar manufacturer's instructions 7-28 days), turn on the system and enjoy your warm tile floors. Nuheat is the easiest electric floor heat system to install.

Floating Laminate, engineered wood floors, Carpet or linoleum Once your subfloor is prepared:

1. Roll out the Nuheat mat on top of the subfloor to test for fit.
2. Simply apply a layer of thinset (acrylic/Latex modified) with your trowel.
3. Place the Nuheat electric floor heat mat into the thinset bed. Nuheat mats can be laid with either side up. Press the Nuheat mat into the fresh thinset bed to ensure full contact and adhesion. Install sensor wire.
4. Apply another layer of mortar or self leveling cement on top of the Nuheat mat to completely cover - we recommend 1/4 inch overall.
5. Once the Mortar is cured, install the flooring on top. Gradually increase the Temp. on the thermostat over 72 hours, or as recommended by the flooring manufacturer.

Which Nuheat mat or mats do I need?

Determine your available voltage then you can see all Nuheat Sizes Here

OR, simply let Warm Your Floor design the system for you at no charge! Provide us with an accurately measured floor plan of the room where you would like to install Nuheat's in floor heating system. To help you measure the area, just download the Drawing Paper and the Measuring Guide.

Your sketch does NOT have to be to scale or fancy; just include all dimensions around the outside of the area. Fax or Email it to Warm Your Floor. Don't forget to show us the Thermostat location!

We will return a quotation to you within 24 hours.

What about Nuheat Custom Heat Mats?

Yes! Nuheat is the only floor heating manufacturer that can build you a custom heat mat. These special order custom heating mats can be manufacturered in as little as 3 days, but rarely take longer than 7 days. The option to have custom mats made specifically for rooms with angles, curves or odd shapes that cannot be accommodated with the standard square and rectangle mats is unique to Nuheat. Simply send us your detailed measurements and we will provide a quote within 24 hours.

Once we recommend the appropriate Nuheat mat(s) and controls for your warm floors project, you simply need to confirm the design and measurements. You will then receive a final quote for your Nuheat in floor heating system and we will await your order.

Once you receive the Nuheat Custom mat you simply open the box and drop it into place for a perfect fit! There is no easier floor heating system available.

How long is the low profile Nuheat power lead?

The Cold Lead (aka power lead or cold tail) is 10' long and can be shortened freely. If you need a LONGER lead it can be extended in 2 ways:

1. Have your electrician install and use a Junction box
2. Purchase a Nuheat Lead Extension Kit Buy Here and extend the lead an additional 10 Feet

Nuheat Custom Mats can be purchased with whatever lead length is required or we can special order you a longer lead on a standard mat for approx $8 per Foot

Can I install Nuheat Floor Heating Mats upside down?

Yes and No. There is no up or down. Either side can be up or down, so you cannot do it wrong.

Is Nuheat radiant floor heating safe?

Absolutely! Nuheat Mats are built to ensure your safety! Nuheat's innovative design encapsulates every wire within the mat in two layers of insulation; the standard plastic insulation that all wires are required to have and an additional outer braid of Stainless Steel. The braid works to protect the wires from being penetrated by sharp objects and also acts as the ground wire in the event of damage.

Nuheat is UL Listed (Underwriter's Laboratory) and CSA Certified (Canadian Standards Association). This means that the product has undergone numerous rigorous tests to obtain a quality and safety stamp of approval. Use our programmable floor heating thermostats with built-in GFCI protection for the ultimate in safety, energy savings and convenience.

UL Listing is E154215. CSA File Number is LR76501-1

What does GFCI mean?

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. This safety device terminates the electrical power to the radiant heat system immediately in the event of damage to a wire or another catastrophe. A GFCI is required by electric code for floor heating applications, just like it's required in most North American bathroom outlets. We always recommend one of our floor heat sensing Thermostats with its built-in GFCI protection.

Does Nuheat require a special GFCI Circuit Breaker?

Not as long as you use one of our Thermostat's with GFCI protection built-in; then a regular circuit breaker of proper amperage with available load is fine. If contactors or relays are used, your installation will require additional protection - Check with your electrician to ensure the installation is done according to all applicable codes and all installation instructions are followed.

How much does Nuheat cost to operate?

Nuheat is an economical floor heating system. For example, a 25 square foot heated area of Nuheat will use only about the same amount of electricity as three 100-watt light bulbs. You will reduce energy costs even further by using our energy efficient programmable thermostat.

How do I operate Nuheat Floor Heating?

Nuheat requires a line voltage thermostat different from an HVAC thermostat, which operates at 24v. There are three thermostat options for controlling your Nuheat electric floor heating system and all include 5mA Class A GFCIs built-in for your safety:

• Harmony Programmable Thermostat. Using the very latest technology, this energy efficient 7-day Programmable In Floor Heat Sensing Thermostat mounts flush within the wall and can be fitted with any decora-style faceplate. The Harmony Thermostat requires a double gang box (2 positions) or can be combined with other switches in a multigang box.
• SOLO Programmable Thermostat. An Energy Star qualified 7-day Programmable Floor temperature sensing Thermostat for the Nuheat mats. Programmable means you can set up to 2 on and 2 off times per day customized to your schedule.
• TEMPO is a Non-programmable alternative for the Nuheat electric floor heating system. An LCD display with few buttons for easy manual control with GFCI protection.

All thermostat options for the Nuheat electric floor heating system are CSA certified, come complete with a built-in Class A G.F.C.I. and are available in 120 and 240 Volt formats.

Can I remove a tile installed over Nuheat Mats?

Yes, but be very careful so as not to damage the mat. See these detailed instructions. Read more

Can I repair Nuheat if I break a wire?

Absolutely you can repair your Nuheat floor heating mat. Simply order a repair kit here. Complete instructions are included with the kit, but you can read more here.

Why choose Nuheat Electric Floor Heat Mats?

• Nuheat is the EASIEST way to get a heated floor since the mats are pre-built for you.
• Nuheat mats provide even under floor heat with no cold spots on tile, stone, laminate or engineered wood for a comfortable warm floor.
• Nuheat provides a 25 year warranty for all warm floors. This is your guarantee of quality since 1990.
• Nuheat's programmable thermostat provides efficient, convenient radiant heat and is Energy Star rated.
• Nuheat radiant under floor heating systems can help you zone heat your home to reduce your heating bills.
• Nuheat has more standard in stock sizes of electric floor heat mats that can be arranged to fit almost any room than anyone.
• Custom mats: Nuheat is the only radiant heat system that gives you the option to have custom mats made specifically for rooms with angles or curves. No one else offers this convenience and we can produce a mat in 3-7 days.

What is the Energy Star Rating and why is it important?

Energy Star is a government-backed program helping businesses and individuals protect the environment through superior energy efficiency. Results are already adding up. Last year alone, Americans, with the help of Energy Star, saved enough energy to power 15 million homes and avoid greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from 14 million cars - all while saving $7 billion.

For the home: Energy efficient choices can save families about a third on their energy bill with similar savings of greenhouse gas emissions, without sacrificing features, style and comfort. Energy Star helps you make the energy efficient choice.

• If looking for new household products, look for ones that have earned the Energy Star. They meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the EPA and US Department of Energy.
• If looking for a new home, look for one that has earned the Energy Star.
• If looking to make larger improvements to your home, EPA offers tools and resources to help you plan and undertake projects to reduce your energy bills and improve home comfort.

Nuheat is an Energy Star Programmable Thermostat Partner and all our programmable thermostats are Energy Star rated and approved.

Nuheat MatComfort Thermostat FAQ

Thermostat Harmony HMY110/HMY220 Operating & Installation

Thermostat NTG5110/NTG5220 Operating & Installation

How to Adjust the Floor Heat

What does an "LO" reading on screen mean?
What does an "HI" reading on screen mean?

Open the left panel of the thermostat.

• Double check to make sure the On/Standby switch is in the "On" position.
• If not, switch the thermostat and the system "On"
• Open the left panel on the thermostat.
• Switch the "On/Standby" switch to "Standby" for three seconds to reset the GFCI.
• Or at your electrical box flip the breaker that to the Nuheat system off.
• Flip the breaker back on.
• If the GFCI light is still on - call your electrician.

What if my GFCI light is on?

The floor sensing probe is damaged, missing or loose.

• Call your electrician.

The floor sensing probe is reading a temperature over 104F. Probe is likely too close or is touching a heating wire inside the mat. The probe must be relocated. Call your tile setter to reposition the probe.

How do I set the time & date on my thermostat?

Note: When programming Time - the thermostat will denote pm but does not have an indicator for am.

• Open the left side door of the thermostat.
• Use the Hour and Minute buttons to set the correct time.
• Use the Day button to set the correct day.

How do I program the desired comfort, economy, and vacation temperature settings?

Note: The Thermostat comes pre-programmed with the following temperature settings.

• Comfort Temperature Setting: 88F
• Economy Temperature Setting: 74F
• Vacation Temperature Setting: 74F

If these default temperature set points do not suit your personal preferences continue with the following steps.

Comfort Setting

• Open the right panel of the thermostat.
• Press or tap the sun symbol.
• The Temperature reading will appear with a small arrow pointing to it.
• Use the arrow buttons to set the desired comfort setting.
• Once desired temperature is selected press and hold the sun button until the sun icon appears below the temperature.
• The comfort temperature setting in now set.

Economy Setting

• Open the right panel of the thermostat.
• Press or tap the moon symbol.
• The Temperature reading will appear with a small arrow pointing to it.
• Use the arrow buttons to set the desired economy setting.
• Once desired temperature is selected press and hold the moon button until the moon icon appears below the temperature.
• The Economy temperature setting in now set.

Vacation Setting

• Open the right panel of the thermostat.
• Press or tap the suitcase symbol.
• The Temperature reading will appear with a small arrow pointing to it.
• Use the arrow buttons to set the desired vacation setting.
• Once desired temperature is selected press and hold the suitcase button until the suitcase icon appears below the temperature.
• The Vacation temperature setting in now set.
• Tap the "sun" button to increase the current temperature.
• Tap the "moon" button to decrease the current temperature.

How do I manually adjust the temperature?

The switch to manual mode will be indicated by the hand / pointing finger symbol.

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Nuheat Troubleshooting Guide

PROBLEM	CAUSE	SOLUTIONS
Programmable thermostat screen is blank	Programmable thermostat is not turned on	Open left hand door. Turn On/Standby switch to ON
	No voltage to programmable thermostat	Call your electrician
	Faulty programmable thermostat	Call Nuheat at 1-866 558 3369
GFCI light is on	Unit needs to be reset	Switch On/Standby to "Standby" then back to ON
	Programmable thermostat has a defective GFCI that is oversensitive	If unit is under warranty, return to Place of Purchase for replacement
	Nuheat system has been damaged as determined by ohms readings	Call Nuheat at 1-866 558 3369
Floor heats but GFCI comes on OCCASIONALLY	Programmable thermostat has a defective GFCI that is oversensitive	Call Nuheat at 1-866 558 3369
	Halogen lights installed causing electrical noise to trip programmable thermostat	Call Nuheat at 1-866 558 3369
"LO" reading on the screen	Floor sensing probe is damaged, missing or loose	Call your electrician
	Problem with programmable thermostat	Call Nuheat at 1-866 558 3369
"HI" reading on the screen	Floor sensing probe is reading a temperature of over 140F	Call your tile setter to reposition the probe
	Probe is likely too close or is touching a heating wire inside the mat	Call your tile setter to reposition the probe
	Probe is damaged	Confirm with electrician and have tile installer install new probe under tile
Programmable thermostat won't hold a program	Problem with programmable thermostat	Call Nuheat at 1-866 558 3369
	Thermostat programs are not set properly	Check out Program instructions
Programmable thermostat enters "ON" mode to soon	Early start function turning on too soon	Disable early start function on back of faceplate
Mats do not heat up	Bad connection in junction box	Refer to instructions and reprogram
	No voltage coming to control (line)	Call your electrician
	No voltage coming out of control (load side)	Call your electrician - return thermostat to Place of purchase for replacement
	Probe placed on mat wire	Call your tile setter to reposition probe
	Matwire is damaged	Have electrician check for correct mat readings. If incorrect, contact Nuheat at 1-8...
	Probe in direct sunlight or under obstruction	Call your tile setter to reposition probe
Control showing much higher temperature than set	Problem with programmable thermostat	Return programmable thermostat to place of purchase
	Probe in direct sunlight or under obstruction	Call your tile setter to reposition probe
Control shows a cool floor temperature but floor feels warm. Heating indicator bars are showing.	Probe placement. Not on heating pad	Call your tile setter to reposition probe

Unlike most of its synthetic alternative competitors the AcoustiCORK R60 underlayment has the ability to keep its acoustic and thermal insulation performance over many years. The physical structure of cork, with nearly 200 million completely sealed air filled cells per cubic inch makes it a very effective insulating material. This same physical structure also provides cork with the ability to be repeatedly compressed and yet recover nearly 100% of its original shape and size.

Click Here for Cork Installation Details...

Why AcoustiCORK R60 as insulation for electric radiant floor heating?

Amorim Industrial Solutions, manufacturer of AcoustiCORK has THE biggest market share in Insulation Cork at 80% Worldwide! That is why Warm Your Floor offers their products exclusively. And, we have a long history together. I first did business with the U.S.A. division in 1985; they offered quality products 20 years ago and still do today.

They have a Direct presence in the countries that produce the raw material - affiliates (all situated in the cork forest zones) in Portugal, Spain, Morocco and Tunisia, allowing diversification of sources and control of the flow of the raw material

They maintain Local operations for the integrated production of the raw material - unique centers for the acquisition, selection, classification and standardization of the raw material before its manufacture; this ensures quality throughout the manufacturing process.

Amorim's Research and development is ongoing. Highly sophisticated Research and Development facilities follow rigorous scientific procedures & ongoing continuous improvement. ISO 9001 Quality Certificate

AcoustiCORK's reputation is unparalled. AcoustiCORK PRODUCTS^TM are recognized in the building industry as a leading & effective sound control, thermal insulation and crack suppression underlayment used under hard surface floors. Residential and commercial projects throughout the United States, Canada and Europe have used AcoustiCORK^TM with excellent success.

AcoustiCORK^TM R60 is designed to meet building codes and condominium association requirements for floor/ceiling assemblies using ceramic tile, marble, stone or hardwood floors.

Testing Proves it: Structural Testing has proven AcoustiCORK R60 is an excellent product.

AcoustiCORK^TM has been tested in accordance with ASTM standards for acoustical values at Riverbank Acoustical Laboratories, an independent laboratory accredited by the National Bureau of Standards of the U.S. Dept. of Commerce and NVLAP (National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program). Whew! That is a mouthful of agencies.

In the Flooring Industry, the most important test standard is the Robinson Wheel. This is an ASTM test and AcoustiCORK® R60 passed with flying colors for use in ALL residential applications, including CONCRETE SLAB and an even higher commercial rating when used over Concrete Board.

TEST	ASTM TEST	RESULT
Bond Strength	C482 Modified	PSI of 80
Structural Performance Without CBU	C627-88 (Robinson Wheel)	Residential Rating
Structural Performance With CBU	C627-88 (Robinson Wheel)	Heavy Rating
Flame Spread	E84-91a	Class "A"
Thermal Insulation R60-6mm " K " Factor	C177-85 (BTU-inch)	0.32
Thermal Insulation R60-6mm " R " Factor	C177-85 (Hr-SF-°F-per Inch)	3.125

Robinson Wheel Testing Details:

6mm Gyp-Crete Residential Robinson Test

CBU 6mm Light Commercial Robinson Test (CBU=Concrete Board Underlayment, i.e. HardiBacker®)

Additional PHYSICAL TESTING & Certifications. Test data is certified by the following organizations:

ICBO Evaluation Report Number ER5314

City Of Los Angeles Research Report Number RR25323-A

Physical and Mechanical Properties of AcoustiCORK R60

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: Agglomerated cork underlay for increased thermal efficiency & foot comfort of the final floor.

PHYSICAL AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES (ISO 7322)

Specific weight: 150-220Kg/m3
Tensile strength (kPa): >200KPa
Compression: 30-50%
Recovery: >70%
Durability: Lifetime of the building

R60 Cork FAQ

Is it totally safe to use AcoustiCORK under ceramic tiles?

Yes, it is. AcoustiCORK R60 underlayment is safe, tested and designed for use under ceramic tile and stone floors. For over 20 years, satisfied customers have been successfully installing them all over the USA as well as in Europe. AcoustiCORK stops the minor cracks in the concrete from showing up in the tile, provide effective impact sound and thermal insulation and use adhesives and procedures approved by ceramic tile manufacturers. The TCNA (Tile Council of North America) references the product specifications of AcoustiCORK in its Installation Handbook for Direct Bonding Ceramic Tiles to Cork Underlayment (F (1-35-06)

Ecology and sustainability are becoming increasingly important in the USA. Does the company hold any certification?

Cork, the raw material of all AcoustiCORK underlayment, is a gift from Nature. Amorim Cork Composites adopts sustainable development practices that are unparalleled in the cork industry. The company holds a Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) chain-of-custody certificate as well as several quality certificates like the NP EN ISO 9001:2000, the OSHAS 18001: 199 and the Systecode - CIPR. We are currently in the final stage of implementation for the NP EN ISO 14001.

Where can I find detailed installation instructions of the AcoustiCORK R60?

Complete details are available by clicking here..

Will R60 Cork Underlayment "swell" with exposure to moisture and cause finish floor coverings to fail?

NO! Because our cork absorbs almost ZERO water it is very dimensionally stable. When exposed to 100% Relative Humidity conditions for an entire 30 days the dimensional change in our AcoustiCORK products is less than 3%. In the 6mm (1/4?) R60, this would represent an increase in thickness of less than 7 thousands of an inch; about the thickness of a human hair.

What about Electric Radiant Floor Heating?

Americans have been using floor warming since the late 1980s when the first floor warming mats were introduced. In Europe, electric cables were first used for floor warming in the 1930s and there are several buildings in Norway with electric systems installed in the 1950s still in use today - over 50 years!

What are the popular types of Radiant Heating?

1. Hydronic (using water heated by a boiler pumped throughout the floor)
2. Electric (direct conversion of electricity into heat energy using resistance wires)

Hydronic systems use a boiler to heat the water and transport it through a complex series of piping, pumps, valves, expansion tanks, controls, etc. to your floor. This is an elaborate plumbing system with water pipes throughout your floor. Hydronic systems are typically serviced annually by a professional. See a photo of a typical Hydronic panel.

Electric floor heating quickly and easily installs beneath your floor covering and is switched on and off by a Thermostat which senses the floor and/or air temperature and reacts accordingly. The thermostats are most often fully programmable with built in programs and a timer. No moving parts, no maintenance and no plumbing leaks.

What is "Radiant Heat"?

Hold your hand over a cup of hot coffee and feel the warmth. A common conclusion is that heat rises. Logical maybe, but incorrect! "Hot air" rises but heat travels in any direction. That is why you can feel the heat of the cup when you place your hand to the side too. Radiant energy transfer is caused by a warm surface giving up its heat to a cooler surface. When there is a temperature difference between two surfaces, both surfaces will attempt to equalize.

Radiant energy from the sun travels through space without heating the vacuum of space itself. It only turns into heat when it contacts a cooler surface or object. Our comfort relies on radiant heat transfer just as it does on air temperature, yet the majority of heating and air-conditioning professionals think only in terms of air temperature.

How is heat transferred?

Heat is transferred from one location or object, to another by 3 basic methods; Convection, Conduction and Radiant Heat.

One basic rule to all three modes is this: heat does not rise, hot air rises. Heat moves from a hot source to a cold source. Think of a hot air balloon. It floats because the hot air inside is less dense than the cool air outside. This literally causes the balloon to float in much the same way a boat floats on water.

Another way to think of this is to imagine a cast iron skillet placed on a stove burner. When the burner is turned on the handle is still cool to the touch, but as the bottom of the pan warms, the heat moves from this now warm source, to the cooler outer edges. Eventually the handle will become too hot to handle and a pot holder will be required to handle the skillet.

The 3 modes of Heat Transfer explained

Convection is what most of us know the best. This is how forced air heating systems or baseboard systems transfers heat into a space. Air moves over a heating element, becomes warmer and expands into the space. In a forced air environment, most of the hot air is at the ceiling (the same reason the hot air balloon rises). So, warm air in a room heated with forced air ends up at the ceiling. Convective heat transfer is the least efficient means to transfer energy.

Conductive heat transfer relies on two surfaces touching each other. Imagine that cast iron pan on the stove. If your hand is positioned an inch above the hot handle, you really won't feel much heat from the handle, and you can keep your hand there as long as you wish. But, when you touch the handle, your hand instantly begins to feel hot (let go!). This is conductive heat transfer. The pan is giving off the energy (heat) in the handle to your hand in a very fast, efficient manner. Conduction is a very efficient mode of heat transfer.

Radiant heat transfer is the best because it isn't slowed down by air. Radiant energy is only felt when the energy wave strikes another surface. This means the surrounding surfaces all reach set temperature. By surrounding your body with warm surfaces, we can better control how our bodies lose heat. Radiant floor heat means more comfort and higher efficiency. And the heat is where you need it. High ceilings and many windows are a primary reason Radiant heat is chosen as a building heating system. Radiant heats you, your family and the objects and surfaces around you. In contrast to the efficiency of Radiant, forced air heating systems allow all of the nice, usable heat to accumulate at the ceiling since hot air rises.

Why do some contractors discourage radiant floor heating?

There are a few contractors who object to Radiant Floor Heat. Anyone involved in the building or remodeling process who is not experienced with radiant floors may be hesitant. This is a normal, protective reaction encountered in architects, engineers, builders, plumbers, electricians, mechanical contractors and anyone else who has input into your project that might be affected. By voicing an objection they are really saying, "I don't know enough about radiant floors, so I do not feel comfortable working with them Fortunately, we will always take the opportunity to educate you, your contractor, or anyone involved who has questions."

So, call on us to educate them or choose a contractor who is familiar or willing to learn. Working with professionals and contractors who are NOT familiar with the systems will result in inflated costs and a potentially poor installation. Get help! We have videos, DVDs, excellent installation manuals and trade associations that can help.

Remember, you are the one that will live in your home, not the contractor. It all comes back to your desire for comfort and energy savings. Use a reputable supplier and installer and your result will be a level of comfort you may not have thought possible. Our experience shows homeowners who choose radiant floor heating rarely go back to forced air systems in the future. The comfort and convenience is that superior!

What are some of the benefits of Radiant Floor Heating?

• Efficiency and heat where you need it; not wasted at the ceiling.
• Silence. The systems are virtually silent - no furnace, blowers or motors. Just warmth felt but not heard.
• Invisible. Hidden beneath the floor there are no design concerns and not hot or cold spots in a room.
• Superior zoning. Heat where and when you need it.
• Clean & Healthy. No airborne contaminants are circulated throughout your home, like with forced air.

Why choose Hydronic?

Hydronic heating makes the most sense in new construction where you will heat the entire house with the radiant floor heating system and have room for all the mechanical equipment and a source of fuel other than electricity.

Electric Radiant Floor Heating and Building inspectors, Energy rules and Title 24

Occassionally a local building inspector has a question about floor heating installation, although this is becoming less frequent as our systems become more popular. Any questions can usually be cleared up by bringing a few key facts to their attention. Show them the product and the attached safety labels and details.

1. ALL of our Floor Warming Systems are UL and/or CSA listed. These approvals are accepted throughout N. America. This is NOT TRUE with all products sold elsewhere; choosing Warm Your Floor means safe products.
2. ALL of the Thermostats & Controls we offer have GFCI protection Built-In and are also tested by at least 1 of the independent testing laboratories (UL, CSA, or ETL) and listed for safety.
3. Millions of Electric Floor Warming products have been safely installed in the USA & Canada for decades.

California Title 24 and Electric Radiant Read More Here

What Floor coverings can be used with Radiant Heat?

Virtually all of them! Tile (ceramic, porcelain,Glass,etc) and Natural Stone(Marble,Slate,Granite,Travertine,etc) are the most common. But Wood Floors, Laminate, Carpet, Vinyl and Linoleum can all be used but small adjustments in installation methods may be necessary.

My Contractor says using radiant with Wood Floors will cause problems. Your thoughts?

This is a common misconception. But 2 major Wood Flooring associations, NOFMA and NWFA say differently.

• NOFMA (National Oak Flooring Manufacturers Association) deals primarily with SOLID floor products, which are typically installed over Hydronic systems. See an article discussing installation - Read More
• NWFA (National Wood Flooring Manufacturers Association)
• Carlisle Wood Flooring is a major manufacturer of Wide Plank Flooring
• Radiant Panel Association Has also done research Read More

Home Inspection New Jersey - New Jersey home inspections by qualified home inspectors who will work for you, our client in Bergen, Essex, Passaic and Morris County

Home Inspection New Jersey - New Jersey home inspections by qualified home inspectors who will work for you, our client in Bergen, Essex, Passaic and Morris County

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Floor Heating and Flooring Industry and Associations Links National Kitchen and Bath Association - We'll help you plan your Floor Heat, but here are resources for other kitchen and bath design needs - A terrific resource.

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No grouting interlocking porcelain tiles for patio decks - Lay tiles the quick and easy way with no adhesives, no grout and no hard work.

DIY home improvement products - Products and solutions for DIY projects outside your home.

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• Is Electric Floor warming SAFE ?
• How does Electric Radiant Floor Heating Work?
• How long can we expect our floor heating system to last?
• How much electricity does electric floor heating use?
• What are the Voltage and Amperage requirements for floor heating?
• Are your floor warming systems easy to install?
• What type of flooring can I install over electric floor heating systems?
• Should I insulate under the floor warming system?
• Why do you offer more than one floor warming system?
• Can I buy floor warming direct from you?
• Can I cut the floor heating wire shorter?
• Can I Splice mats together?

Is Electric Floor warming SAFE ?

Yes! At least we can say that about the systems we sell, since they have all passed more safety tests than any of our competitors. UL and CSA certifications, Robinson Floor Test (for durability) and rated by The Tile Council of North America attest to the safety of our products. All our Thermostats have been safety certified by independent testing agencies and all include GFCI protection BUILT-IN for shock protection. And, unlike our competitors, have NEVER had a safety recall for our electric floor heating products.

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How does Electric Radiant Floor Heating Work?

The heating wires are specially engineered and designed so they provide heat via the specific wire's electrical resistance. Special insulation is used to provide protection and durability to the heating wires. When the thermostat is turned on (or the timer is activated) electricity is sent to the floor heating system, the wires heat up, and in turn heats up the floor. This heat then radiates from the ground up throughout the room, heating objects and people within the heated area. That's exactly what you want from your system; a warm floor and a warm body; energy is not wasted heating up air that then rises to the ceiling and is lost.

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How long can we expect our floor heating system to last?

All of our systems carry at least a 25 Year warranty and are backed by strong manufacturers who have been in the floor heating business for 20 to 78 years. With the superior wire construction these companies use, the systems have a long expected life, considering they are encased and protected within the mortar under the flooring. A warranty of less than 25 years is simply nonsense!

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How much electricity does electric floor heating use?

Not very much. And our Programmable Thermostats have energy star ratings for the greatest efficiency. All of our mat systems operate at 12 watts per Sq Ft, so 20 Sq Ft only requires 240 watts, the same as a few light bulbs. Our uniform wire spacing optimizes the heat output and saves energy over a 15 watt system. A typical installation in a 60 SF bathroom will cost 10 to 20 cents per day. See our Energy use calculator for specifics.

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What are the Voltage and Amperage requirements for floor heating?

Both 110/120 & 220/240 systems are available. Mats are 12 watts per Sq Ft, which means you can control up to 137-150 Sq Ft of floor warming at 110/120v (and twice that for 220/240v) per circuit. Each circuit has a 15 amp maximum, and 1 thermostat control is required per 15 amp circuit. A dedicated circuit is recommended, but very small systems of 20 SF only require approx. 2 amps, so you may be able to add on to an existing circuit; a licensed electrician will know the answer for your project.

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Are your floor warming systems easy to install?

Our systems are easy to install, safe to use. Some of our products are so easy to work with that even a weekend do-it-yourselfer can install them. Over 50% of Floor warming installations are done by First Time Installers. Or, your own contractor can easily manage installation with the help of our "how to" DVD's, and complete, step-by-step installation instructions. Either way, we are here to answer any questions or provide installation tips-for you and your contractor.

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What type of flooring can I install over electric floor heating systems?

Virtually any floor covering can be heated by our systems. While tile and stone floors are the most common heated floors, you can also heat hardwood floors (glued or floated), Laminates, Vinyl or linoleum, Bamboo, Cork, even carpet. Concrete floors can also be heated by placing one system within the new concrete pour. Be sure to read the installation instructions for specifics of how to properly install floor heat for your particular application and floor covering. Or, call us toll free and we'll answer all your radiant floor heating questions!

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Should I insulate under the floor warming system?

In most cases, the insulation that is already in your floor will be adequate. If there is no insulation under your frame floor, we do recommend adding it.

For Concrete floors, we always recommend Cork insulation. Concrete slabs absorb part of the heat generated by the floor warming system so less heat is transferred to the flooring. Heat always moves toward colder surfaces, so it goes both up & down when the floor warming system is in direct contact with a slab. But, adding a simple layer of cork between the slab & floor heating provides a "thermal break" reducing the flow of heat into the slab and allowing MORE HEAT transfer into the flooring. Installing insulation on top of slab translates into more heat, faster response times and less energy used; a wise investment. And OUR cork is Engineered, Tested and Approved for use under tile and wood floors.

There are a few other insulation materials available, but Cork is our favorite, since it is a natural product and a renewable resource, unlike other insulating products. And you can buy this specially engineered Cork insulation directly from us.

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Why do you offer more than one floor warming system?

In our 7 years selling Electric Radiant Heating Systems, we have found that no single manufacturer offers a complete solution for every project. We've researched a number of radiant floor heating products available on the market, and have chosen to carry only the highest quality products from the top manufacturers. There are cheaper radiant heat floor warming products on the market, but we won't sell them. We've researched, tested, and installed all of the products we carry. And we're confident that they are the best products for the money. But most importantly, we're passionate about adding warmth to your home. From the ground up. Making sure you chose the right product for your specific application is only one of the ways we assure you're completely satisfied with your new warm floor.

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Can I buy floor warming direct from you?

Absolutely. Warm Your Floor has the largest inventory of floor warming products in the U.S., in stock and ready for immediate delivery. That means your project won't meet costly delays waiting for product to arrive. Send us your room layout, and we'll recommend, design and quote a floor-warming system specifically for you.

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Can I cut the floor heating wire shorter?

No. Never. Period. You may cut the mesh mat, but never the heating element. You may also shorten the cold lead or the thermostat sensor wire, but DO NOT cut the heating wire on purpose. If you cut the wire by mistake, we offer a special Wire Repair Kit.

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Can I Splice mats together?

No; all mats "home run" back to the thermostat. The mats do not connect end-to-end. We have mats in over 70 sizes and many length and width combinations to cover any size or shape room.

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Read More about "Why Radiant Heating" here, including Hydronic (water) radiant heating, the history of radiant heating and other related subjects

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Can I space the cable differently than the specified 3”?

No. You cannot change the spacing of the cable runs. The spacing must be maintained at 3" spacing. Spacing the wire closer than 3” is not safe. Although spacing the cable farther apart @ 4” is possible, it is not recommended as this will result in noticeable cold spots on the floor; it’s simply not enough heat.

What if I have Cable Left over?

Double-check that you have purchased the right kit based on the square footage of the area. If the wrong kit was purchased and is in new condition (not installed) contact us to exchange.

Install the cable in the buffer zone; a buffer zone is an area where excess cable can be installed to “use it up” without cutting it. Examples of buffer zones include the area behind or beside the toilet or a closet space.

Install the cable closer to the perimeter of the heated area to use up extra cable (reduce the unheated border).

What if I don't have enough cable?

Double-check that you have purchased the right kit based on the square footage of the area. If the wrong kit was purchased and is in new condition (not installed) contact us to exchange.

Remove and reposition the heating cable from areas of the floor where heating is not as important to you. For example, behind the door, directly in front of a tub or shower where you might put a bath mat down, or increase your unheated area along walls (especially those with towel racks).

What if I cut the cable accidentally – can it be repaired?

It can be repaired. Simply purchase a wire repair kit (1 per break)

Can Nuheat Cable be installed in wet environments such as shower beds and saunas?

Yes, Nuheat Cable is permitted for this type of installation.

How do I install Nuheat Cable in a shower environment?

Refer to our Shower Installation Instructions

Do I need to check the Resistance Values of the Cable with a Multi Meter?

Yes – this is a simple and quick yet critical step in the Installation Process, and is required before, during and after installation.

Which is the neutral wire?

The black wire without the colored tip is the neutral wire.

Can two or more cable kits be installed together?

The amperage limit of a single Nuheat thermostat is 15 amps. You may use as many kits as needed provided the combined amperage does not exceed 15 amps. For large spaces such as basements, we suggest you "zoning" your space and using a second thermostat.

Multiple cable kits do not connect end-to-end, they must be wired in "parallel" directly at the thermostat.

Should I read the instructions?

Why Not! You’ve invested in the Nuheat System because you wanted a luxurious heated floor – take it from the floor heating experts – read those instructions!