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Q: I have seen many ads for radiant barriers designed to save energy. Is there any evidence that these radiant barriers can reduce home energy costs? If so, in what climates are they most effective? How should they be installed?
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Q: When designing a radiant floor, can there be such a thing as too much thermal mass? Here in Alaska, we sometimes see the temperature jump from -10°F up to 40°F above in just a few hours.
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Building materials are always changing and so are the tools used to install them. Here’s a look at what’s new and worthy, from foundation to finishes.
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Q: After reading the article "Using Water Heaters for Radiant Heat" (11/98), I decided to replace my boiler with a 75-gallon propane water heater. In general, this is working great, except that about every three weeks the pressure-temperature relief valve, which is rated at 210°F, keeps tripping. I...
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Q: How do you go about using sand instead of concrete for thermal mass in a radiant floor, as mentioned in the Sept. ’98 article "Hardwood Flooring Over Radiant Heat"?
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Here are five cost-effective ways to cut energy costs in new construction and remodels.
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Proper installation of these fan-assisted units can provide comfortable, energy-efficient heat in room additions and small dwellings.
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Noise-reducing batts; cool eye protection; simple cord connector; generator power panel; aluminum fence system; foolproof GFCI receptacle; thin profile radiant heat for tile
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The same technology used in radiant slabs also works outdoors to melt snow from drives and walkways. A heating contractor explains how to schedule and install a radiant snowmelt system.
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Sometimes heavy floor coverings, furniture, or built-ins reduce the area available for radiant heating. This heating specialist shows how to turn walls and ceilings into heat emitters.