Underfloor heating is a heating system that works by channelling a heat source under the floor. This system emits heat in a homogeneous manner thanks to a network of plastic pipes or, failing that, wiring that is installed under the floor of the home or business premises.
The basic principle of underfloor heating is the pumping of water at a low temperature of around 40ºC in winter and 15ºC in summer. These circuits are installed on a thermal insulator and are covered by a thin layer of mortar that will be responsible for conserving the thermal energy received to subsequently release it progressively, thermal inertia. The quality of the mortar, its thickness, or its correct distribution, will be decisive in obtaining an inertia appropriate to our needs.
The underfloor heating system has a very high thermal inertia, this means that it takes longer to heat up than traditional radiators, however, it will continue to emit heat for a certain period after being turned off. By having a network of pipes well distributed under the floor, a uniform distribution of heat is achieved, avoiding asymmetries, that is, hotter or colder areas that other systems can generate.
The way this heating system heats provides high comfort. As the heat comes from the floor, it is not lost in the upper part of the room, helping to maintain a pleasant temperature for longer.
Hot water enters a radiator at one end and circulates around a closed loop before exiting the radiator at the opposite end. As the heat from the water emanates from the radiator, it causes the water to cool. As it returns to the boiler, the water is heated again and the cycle continues. It is the most conventional, traditional system and also the most economical.
A fan coil in an aerothermal system is made up of a fan and a coil that is responsible for cooling or heating the air it absorbs before returning it to the room. Pipes with water circulate through its interior, the element responsible for modifying the air temperature. There are ceiling and wall fan coils and those hidden above false ceilings and cupboards.