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10 Best Radiant Floor Heaters 2021: with Powerful Floor Heating System

It’s getting colder with each passing day and night, with first snows covering your street. Winter season doesn’t always have to be cold and stressful in terms of preparing enough heating resources. With radiant floor heaters becoming more prominently used over the past few years, there are a lot of great options that don’t have to hurt your budget. In this article, we’ve prepared a value-driven buying guide and a list of the 10 best radiant floor heaters you must check out if you’re in need of a powerful floor heating system.

We know your struggle. Heating equipment, as well as chunky heaters,  can be hard to place in smaller houses and homes. However, you don’t have to lose on space to remain warm, thanks to the radiant floor heaters. In this guide, we’ve focused on hydronic and electric floor heaters, highlighting the benefits of both as well as tips and tricks in picking the right floor heating system. After that, you can check some of the 10 best radiant floor heaters that may appeal to your needs.

The floor heating system doesn’t have to cost you a fortune; we’ve focused on both affordable and value-delivering options that are still relatively inexpensive when it comes to installation. More importantly, all of these come with warranty, so they are expected to last you for many years and stop cold, throbbing feet.

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How to shop for the best radiant floor heaters?

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Before we proceed, it’s important to highlight the two different types of radiant floor heaters and highlight their features, advantages, and disadvantages.

Also, owning a radiant floor system is a better option than owning actual heaters because it’s cost-effective, yet an original way to support your home under the flooring. The floor that can support these heating systems is usually carpeted, using tiles, vinyl, or laminate. The floor heating systems work by using several hydronic tubes beneath the floor or wiring the area with wires in case of electrical radiant floor heater.

1. Hydronic Radiant Floor Heaters

Hydronic radiant floor heaters are ideal upgrades to already-existing hydronic systems, although there’s no issue with getting an original one. It is used mostly when it’s necessary to be grouped up with another heating system. It is used in combination with the already-built-in thermostatic valve in the housing and can be used to measure and control the temperature. The best part about them is that they’re relatively inexpensive to be equipped in the apartment. However, hydronic floor heaters also require some additional expenses like a boiler, which heats up the water on the floor. That said, these systems are the best for people who own boilers or other hydronic heating systems.

2. Electric Radiant Floor Heaters

Electric Radiant floor heaters are another option to pick if your apartment doesn’t have a boiler or a hydronic heating system, although it’s time-consuming and expensive. It works by having electricians wire up your apartment’s mat in a serpentine shape, with the use of multiple mat layers that cover the floor. When the entire heating system gets assembled it’s plugged into the power socket and then supports heating of the floor. There are several drawbacks to this system. It’s expensive and time-consuming to install. Meanwhile, it doesn’t reduce electricity bills because the system will be in use all the time to provide heating for the apartment. Additionally, heating mats need a lot of maintenance, and if something in the heating mats breaks, the entire floor would need to get disassembles. Fortunately, there are no leaks which are frequent with hydronic water systems and can also last many years.

3. Tips to look for when buying a radiant floor heater

Beneath, we highlighted a list of things to consider when springing for a radiant floor heater. Make sure to choose the best of these features because a good heating system is reliable, consistent, durable, and simply top-notch.

  • Budget – This is extremely important to consider, especially in case you live in a large apartment or a house. The heating floor and their assembling often get charged per square feet, and in addition to accessories or add-on mini-systems, the budget is mandatory to consider. Some heating floors also come with accessories like a protection system, smart system or a simple alarm, which will also be charged into your existing deal. Considering all expenses when purchasing a radiant floor heater will help you to avoid hiccups.
  • Maintenance – Maintaining your heating system is of utmost importance for proper functioning. That said, you need to keep an eye on your maintenance so that there won’t be unexpected malfunctions. Although things like these consume a lot of time, it’s worth noting that these things are worth it for proper functioning. Additionally, getting a professional that will frequently test for hiccups will ensure that everything works in proper order.
  • No cutting – When installing your radiant floor heater, make sure not to cut or trim the mesh in the heating mat, although the professionals installing the system should already do that. It’s important to take proper measurements and be mindful at installing, re-adjusting is mostly painful and doesn’t lead to desired results.
  • Spare equipment just in case – Additional thermostat or a sensor won’t hurt anyone. They are used to be sure about the temperature readings you’re getting. Also, thermostats come in different sizes and shapes, and your house’s infrastructure can say a lot about the thermostat you use. With that, it’s best to consult with customer care for a satisfying solution.
  • Customer service – When springing for a radiant floor heater, it’s important to vary the offers, warranty, and customer service you’re getting. Those people dictate your experience, and if they are not ready to assist you with installation or necessary repairments, they are not a worthy investment. Make sure to watch for prompt, swift and responsible service that can help you in times of need.

Research before buying the best radiant floor heater

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Radiant floor heating systems are still debatable, but it’s noticeable that their popularity is growing. That said, many are still undecided whether it’s a good investment for them. Don’t worry, we researched for you and can provide all the necessary information you might be looking for.

1. Safety

Safety is an important factor when you’re purchasing a radiant floor system, especially electric, given that there are wires below your floor, which indicates some level of cautiousness and skepticism. However, there’s no reason to worry. All the systems are built and assembled with safety in mind, and because there are no visible burning surfaces, there is no way you can get hurt. Many people are concerned about physical heaters and accessibility. Children, as well as pets like to play and tinker around the house which often lead to unwanted injuries. That doesn’t happen if you own a radiant floor heater. Another great thing about radiant floor heaters is that because there is no surface heat release, the air in your room will remain fresh and clean, which is not always the case with other types of heaters.

2. Assembling

Installing a radiant floor heating system can vary in prices. The costs are often between $6 to $16 per square foot, extending up to between $9,000 to $22,500 if you want to install it across a $1,500 square foot home. The prices vary based on the zones at your home, as well as how large the system you really need. Another thing you should consider in the price is the removal and replacement of the current floor you have as well as getting a new one.

3. Obstacles and damage

While this heating option sounds like it’s the best for most things, there are still some obstacles you may come across. Such obstacles include built-in elements like wardrobes and closets, as well as drawers. If you’re planning to install radiant floor heating in the kitchen, different appliances and kitchen counters may also distract you.

There are not damage-related issues when it comes to these heating systems unless they are not installed properly. The system can break due to overheating if the vent was poorly established, which can be solved by encapsulating the factory joint in the floor leveler. Another damage-related issue is not providing enough electrical output for the floor to absorb and use to heat the house, so it might be necessary to upgrade the electrical components at home, which could lead to damage if you are into electrical radiant floor heaters.

10 best radiant floor heaters

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Now that we’ve gotten to know some of the most important criteria about radiant floor heaters as well as how they work, it’s time to list 10 best radiant floor heaters. We’ve focused on the best radiant floor heater overall, best premium option, and best budget option. We hope that the guide above made your choice a tad easier, while the reviews below help you shape your decision.

1. Heatwave Electric Floor Heating System – best radiant floor heater overall

  • Price: $$
  • Type: Electric floor heating system
  • Power: 300-watt
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty

The heatwave is a well-established heating manufacturer with over 20 years of experience in providing consistent service, sturdy, and durable heating systems and this system is no exception. It comes in various sizes and options, although its 25 square-foot option appeals to most of the homes. It works great on homes with moderate weight and is suitable for all types of floor as long as they’re not too heavy. It can also be implemented in wetter areas such as kitchen and bathroom without worrying about hazard, although it’s advised to use cemented mortar.

Currently, on the market, this is the most value-driving radiant floor heaters you can find. It boasts a thin-profile electric floor, which isn’t too difficult to install as long as you follow the instruction. It is a great solution for your entire house or apartment because you don’t have to combine multiple heating systems adjustable for different types of rooms.

It is also equipped with an automated, programmable thermostat that you can adjust to your needs. It focuses on the floor temperature instead of the room’s temperature and then delivers accurate readings, determining whether it’s time to start heating. Another great thing is that the thermostat comes with a very sleek and intuitive display which gives accurate temperature readings. Also, it’s durable, so it can be used for weeks or even months without the necessity to turn it off, although that might have a negative reflection on your electricity bills. Lastly, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty, which is great for people who are looking for a solution that lasts.

Now to get to the negative things. Although there’s nothing special we’d like to point out, it’s worth mentioning that there could help me a requirement for external support during installation, which practically needs upgrading your power box or even getting some external power supply from the outside. That’s why it’s so important to be up-to-date with these things.

Pros

Automated and programmable thermostat, clear display, thin profile, long-lasting lifetime, smart heating, limited time warranty.

Cons

Might require external support.

2. HeatTech Electric Radiant Floor Heating System the best budget option

  • Price: $
  • Type: Electric floor heating system
  • Power: 240-watts
  • Warranty: 25 years

This model is nearly as good as the model mentioned above, although it’s much more budget-friendly, and a little less powerful. You can use it for any kind of floor you want, and if you live in a house, you can use it for both indoor applications or setting up the sit-out areas in your yard. If you have a concrete floor, this model will sit there just fine.

It’s heating mat is extremely durable and it can be installed easily thanks to the sticky adhesion that comes with it. This particular model supports 20-square-feet coverage and is equipped with a branded thermostat which should be more reliable and automate the processes easier. The floor sensing thermostat that comes with it is highly customizable and programmable. Its intuitive and smart interface allows users to equip it only once and not worry about it ever again. The programmable thermostat can work for seven days without human supervision.

Now to the best part, but also the worst part to this heating math – While it comes with incredible 25-year warranty and could support generations, its warranty is applicable only if a certified, professional electrician from the company itself comes to perform the installation and assembling. This is not too much of a drawback, given that it’s a great value for the price.

Pros

Adhesive panel, programmable thermostat, affordable, great and long-lasting warranty.

Cons

Warranty is applicable only if an electrician from the company deploys it.

3.WarmlyYours TRT120-KIT-OT – the best premium option

  • Price: $$$
  • Type: Electrical floor heating system.
  • Power: 473-watts
  • Warranty: 25 years

WarmlyYours is known for unprecedented quality when it comes to heating elements, and this is no exception. Its new heating system can be adjustable to any type of floor, including stone, ceramic tile, nailed hardwood, wood, and other materials. The cut-out for this particular model is 32 square feet, which is ideal for a house.

It is equipped with a touchscreen programmable thermostat that operates with dual voltage and tracks the voltage across the entire floor. It is equipped with the self-testing GFCI, which can lock the usage for children and that way prevent a catastrophe. There are also four separate temperature events for a day and an integrated installation wizard, which helps you customize its performance the way you want.

Circuit check is another feature that tests the performance in the wires before, during and after installation to make sure the radiant floor heating is installed properly. In case a break occurs, the installer will be notified through the screen, and that way take necessary measures to fix the error.

Lastly, the heater offers free installation plans as well as 25 years warranty for the Flex Roll and 3-years for the thermostat, which is also equipped with WiFi. While it might be too expensive for some’s wallet, it provides various safety features that make it competent as the top among the best radiant floor heaters.

Pros

Premium design, circuit checker, smart WiFi thermostat, long-lasting warranty, and free installation

Cons

Overly expensive.

4. Nuheat Standard Mat Floor Heating System

  • Price: $$
  • Type: Electric floor heating system
  • Power: 288-watts
  • Warranty: 25 years

Nuheat Standard Mats are some of the best pre-made heating mats available on the market. They are suitable for most types of floors and what sets them apart from the competition is that they are easy to install. More importantly, it eliminates the risk of causing error by poor calculation of wire spacing and already comes premade.

It’s also thin to a point it doesn’t raise the floor’s height, and measures only 1/8-inches thick, which means it won’t make any difference to the floor’s height thanks to the low-profile installation. There is also a 25-year limited warranty, which is included only if the certified electrician comes to install the system. Another downfall is also that the heating takes time, with over 45 minutes needed for the floor to reach high temperatures.

Pros

Easy to install, low-profile mat, long warranty.

Cons

Warranty works only if the electrician from the company installs the mat; takes too long to warm up.

5. SunTouch WarmWire Floor Heat Kit

  • Price: $$$
  • Type: Electric floor heating system
  • Power: 840-watts
  • Warranty: 25 years

If you’re looking for a premium and luxurious heating kit, then SunTouch WarmFire floor heating kit is the best opportunity if you have a large home and need to cover large areas resistant to a wet floor and can work both inside and outside. It is suitable for any kind of tiles and floors, including the stone floor, if you want to set it outside.

It has a programmable and customizable thermostat that allows users to easily adjust the temperatures and change the pace of warming. It is easy for setting up, and it comes with additional features like LoudMouth alarm, which is ideal for testing. The thermostat also turns on and off automatically, so you don’t have to worry about overheating. It works fast and is power-efficient.

It has a 25-year warranty, but its main turnoff is certainly its price. Nevertheless, people living in large houses that get cold easier will benefit from its 70 square-feet coverage.

Pros

No overheating, power-efficient, covers large spaces, smart thermostat.

Cons

Crazily expensive.

6. Happybuy Oxygen O2 Barrier PEX Tubing

  • Price: $$
  • Type: Hydronic floor heating system
  • Warranty: N/A

Happybuy Oxygen O2 Barrier PEX Tubing is ideal for everyone who already uses hydronic heating system to warm their house or apartment. It comes with EVOH PEX Barrier pipe, which maintains the oxygen levels in such way that key components of the heating system will work properly. It can be ideal for attaching to radiator as well as baseboard heating system. Additionally, it can be used with snow-melting heating systems. Also, don’t worry about catastrophe as this system is ideal for protection from temperature damage and is extremely durable. Watch out. However, it might be too big for some homes.

Pros

Easy to install, customizable to any system, protection from temperature damage

Cons

Too big for some homes.

7. SEAL 10 sqft 120V Radiant Floor Heating Mat

  • Price: $
  • Type: Electric floor heating system
  • Power: 180-watts
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty

Another among the best radiant floor heaters is SEAL 120V radiant floor heating mat, which is ideal for small cozy rooms and apartments. It is equipped with premium components as well as thin profile cable, which will keep your floor at the same size, and make it adjustable for any kind of floor. The additional feature is the self-adhesive floor mat, which makes it even easier to install. It’s premium construction also makes it resistant to electromagnetic fields.

Pros

Thin-profile, smart thermostat, works fast, self-adhesive floor mat

Cons

Not ideal for larger homes.

8. SunTouch Mat Floor Heat Kit

  • Price: $
  • Type: Electric floor heating system.
  • Power: 360-watts
  • Warranty: 3 years warranty

Another SunTouch floor heating system boasts a more affordable price-tag with the same premium and durable design. This mat floor is ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, as well as adjustable to most types of flooring, although not welcome on wood and laminate.

There are a lot of things we like, including touchscreen thermostat, automatic on and offsetting on the thermostat, which prevents overheating, timer that lets you adjust the longevity of heating, and much more. Additionally, this mat floor comes with a Loud Mouth alarm, which is ideal for testing during the installation.

The only drawback we noticed is that it takes significantly longer to warm up, but that’s pretty much the only thing we’ve noticed. All in all, it’s a great value for the price and more affordable than other options.

Pros

Touchscreen thermostat, no overheating, timer functionality, LoudMouth alarm

Cons

Slower than other options, shorter warranty

9. Warming Systems Electric Radiant Floor Heat Heating System

  • Price: $$
  • Type: Electric floor heating system.
  • Power: 240-watts
  • Warranty: 25 years

Warming System is another relatively budget-friendly option for heating mats, which covers about 20 square feet, which is enough for small to the medium floor. It has a thin profile, so it is easily used with different floor types and doesn’t elevate the height of the floor.

It is equipped with an Aube Digital Floor Sensing Thermostat with an installation monitor, which helps users install it without hiccups. It comes with a 25-years long warranty, which is great, although the only drawback of this heating system is that it takes too long to warm up.

Pros

Thin-profile, durable heating cables, smart thermostat, installation monitor.

Cons

Takes too long to warm up.

10. Heatizon Electric Radiant Floor Heating System

  • Price: $$$
  • Type: Electric floor heating system
  • Power: 1200-watts
  • Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty

A spacious and versatile Heatizon electric radiant floor heating system will become your best pick if you live in a large house and need easy installation. There is a custom installation configuration as well as a programmable thermostat that accurately measures the temperature and determines the comfort needs automatically. It comes with dual voltage options at 120V and 240V.

It has an extremely easy UI to navigate through, as well as an installation setting that will inform in case of some error during installation occurs. It can be used with pretty much every material and comes in a limited lifetime warranty. The only downside is that it is more expensive compared to other options but offers 100 square feet coverage.

Pros

Large coverage, smart thermostat, dual voltage options, versatile with any type of floor

Cons

Pretty expensive