Radiant Heat Adds Sizzle to a Builder's Business PATH Case Study

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Journey into the unknown "Radiant floors are more popular in custom homes right now, but I would love to see more tract builders adopt them," Meinhart says. "Unfortunately, many are reluctant to abandon forced air systems. For them, it's a journey into the unknown, but you know, sometimes that's what it takes." Meinhart first learned how to install radiant heating systems from an experienced HVAC contractor. "He had already installed several of these systems, so he was happy to walk me through the process. The installation is actually the easiest part. "In large rooms, the biggest challenge is learning how to incorporate and coordinate multiple systems with different heating sources and circulators, but even that can be overcome through hands-on experience, just like any other trade. First-time users should start with smaller projects. Don't attempt to install the systems on multiple levels of the house. Use it on something like a basement so you can learn how it works and what the challenges are. "Beyond that, don't be afraid to call in an experienced HVAC professional to help you with the project. Some manufacturers of the systems even offer technical support to new users. Now I've worked out the kinks in the system, and it's second nature to me. I have used radiant floor heating in four of my projects. You build a house one brick at a time. The same is true with learning how to install a heated floor system." In this custom home, Meinhart installed radiant floor heating in the garage, foyer and master bath. Client satisfaction "My marketing is mainly word-of-mouth," says Meinhart. "I cultivate new customers through the recommendations of former ones. Radiant floor heating adds value to my homes by making them more comfortable, which is a huge draw for potential customers. It also helps in my sales meetings with potential clients, because it adds to the image of quality that I try to bring to the table. "Radiant systems aren't appropriate if the floor is covered with a thick carpet, or in climates that only require heating systems a couple of months of the year. But for projects where I feel it would be appropriate, no customer has ever turned it down. "I try to be careful about how I introduce technologies to customers. The technology has to serve a purpose. My customers aren't always concerned about the cost of installing the systems, but they are concerned about maintenance and comfort. With radiant floor heating systems, maintenance is almost zero and comfort is guaranteed. "Clients may have to get accustomed to the fact that it takes a little while for the systems to heat up and that the air around them feels a little different than it does with a traditional HVAC system. But once they do, they'll come to appreciate the improved indoor air quality and the overall feeling of comfort. My clients love it." Technology highlights This project included the following PATH-profiled technologies: Geothermal heat pump Radiant floor heating This article is provided courtesy of PATH — the Partnership for Advancing Technology in Homebuilding. PREVIOUS  1 | 2