ERT240-1.5x08 Frequently Asked Questions

Don't see the answer you're looking for? Post your question

I have too much heating roll, can I shorten the heating wire or heating roll?

No. Never cut the heating cable. The floor heating cable is designed with a very specific resistance in order to consistently maintain heating at a specific wattage per square foot. Trimming the heating cable lowers the resistance of the cable causing the system to overheat.  WarmlyYours recommends obtaining a complimentary SmartPlan™ Floor Heating Installation Plan to assure a good installation.

2 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

How do I work with my electrician to install WarmlyYours electric floor heating?

While WarmlyYours electric radiant floor heating systems are typically installed by your floor covering contractor, a licensed electrician is recommended for the final thermostat hook-up. With every quote, we provide an Installation Plan layout, together with an electrical plan that has all the info required for the electrician.

34 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

How can I determine what I need for my floor heating project and how can I find out what my floor heating system will cost?

You can use the Instant Quote Tool, which gives you many options for your floor heating coverage. Use this interactive tool to design your room online and receive an instant quotation with product recommendations, rough-in and installation kits, cost of your control, etc. Planning your floor heating project is made easy when using our Instant Quote Tool.

Send us your floor plan or fax it to (800) 408-1100 and we will send you a quote, product recommendation and a free custom installation plan for your project.

26 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

Is electric floor heating safe and what about EMF?

Our electric radiant floor heating systems have withstood rigorous safety testing and earned the UL listing. They produce much less EMF than common household appliances like your TV or vacuum cleaner. The EPRI (Electric Power Research Institute) tests all electrical devices and publishes the data. Many common household appliances are tested at a distance of 6 inches. The test results indicate that on average, the EMF emitted for the following appliances, measured in Milligauss (mG) units, is:

Vacuum Cleaner: 300 mG

Microwave: 200 mG

Portable Heater: 100 mG

Dishwasher: 20 mG

Washing Machine: 20 mG

WarmlyYours TempZone™ (Twin): 1.8 mG

25 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

What type of flooring can I install along with an electric floor heating system?

WarmlyYours’ TempZone™ product is most commonly installed under tile, stone, and marble flooring, but can also be installed under many other popular floor covering options such as hardwood, vinyl and linoleum. We also have our Environ system, which is an electric floor heating product as well and is specially designed for installation under carpet (in the U.S. only), laminate and floating wood. WarmlyYours can accommodate any flooring type with either of the electric radiant floor heating products that we offer. If your flooring type isn't listed here, just give us a call at (800) 875-5285 and we will be happy to discuss it with you.

23 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

If I have extra cold lead wire, can I trim off what I don't need for my installation?

Yes. Unlike the heating cable for electric floor heating, the cold lead wires can be trimmed.

18 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

How do you keep a sunroom warm in the winter?

Sunrooms can be very cold during the winter months. While a furnace may push some warm air into the room, the large number of windows, exterior walls, and other causes of heat loss in a sunroom will typically keep it from having a comfortable temperature level. Floor heating and radiant panels will add radiant heat, which the human body absorbs faster than other forms of heat, to the room so that it feels warm even at lower temperatures.

14 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

Can I put furniture on top of underfloor heating?

Yes, but any furniture that may trap heat, such as pieces with an enclosed bottom, should be avoided. Furniture on legs with a clearance of at least 3" is permissible.

13 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

Should I be concerned about electric floor heating melting the toilet connection's wax ring?

To prevent any overheating, we recommend that you do not install any electric radiant floor heating elements closer than 4" from the wax ring.

12 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

How do I know if I am installing my electric floor heating system properly?

Please keep in mind that you must check your electric floor heating system with a digital ohmmeter in conjunction with a Circuit Check™. Take an initial reading as soon as you take the product out of the box to verify that it is within -5% / +10% of the values stated on the product’s label. This will give you a basis of comparison for future readings. Take a second reading once you have positioned the system to match your custom installation plan. It is also advisable to take an additional reading in the middle of the tile installation, just to make sure that the Circuit Check™ is doing its job. Then, take a final reading when you are finished with the floor installation and are ready to hook up the thermostat.

The Circuit Check™ is a tool developed by WarmlyYours to give you peace of mind and ensure trouble-free installations. Simply hook up the cold leads to the tool while you position the system to match your custom installation plan.

The Circuit Check™ will continuously monitor the continuity of the circuit during the installation of your system and during the installation of your flooring. The Circuit Check™ beeps immediately when a short in the system is detected, alerting you to a potentially damaged cable in the area you are working, before you lay the tile over the electric floor heating system.
 The WarmlyYours technical support team is available 24/7 to provide assistance if the alarm sounds, or if you would have any questions during your installation.

11 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

Should I add insulation before installing electric floor heating and how will that affect the system's performance?

When installing electric floor heating over a concrete slab, an insulating underlayment like ThermalSheet is highly recommended to ensure efficient operation, faster heating times and warmer floor temperatures.

11 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

What temperature should I set my heated floor to?

The perfect room or floor temperature is always going to be a personal preference. However, we do see that our customers will usually set their floor temperature to somewhere in the 80°F to 84°F range.

11 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

Can electric floor heating be installed under a vanity?

Electric radiant floor heating should not be installed under permanent fixtures that may trap heat. However, if the vanity or cabinets are "floating" or are on legs, then a floor heating system may be installed under it.

11 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

How much does it cost to run an electric floor heating system?

The answer to this question will depend on a whole host of variables related to electric floor heating, including, but not limited to, the run time (for supplemental heating, we usually recommend between 4-8 hours per day), the electric radiant floor heating system you're using, the total square footage, and your local electrical cost. Typically, the cost is just a few cents a day. 

To figure out how much electric floor heating might cost to run for you, make sure to use our interactive Operating Cost Calculator. 

9 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

Will electric floor heating help with moisture issues like mold and mildew?

Yes, the drying effects of electric radiant floor heating will reduce the humidity coming from the slab, which is the largest source of moisture.

9 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

Can you heat under the appliances, fixtures, or furniture in a laundry room, mudroom, or utility room?

No, it is recommended that floor heating only be installed in the areas that you will walk on. Heat can become trapped if installed under objects that do not offer enough clearance for air to circulate (such as a washer or dryer).

9 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

Do I need insulation when installing an electric floor heating system over a concrete slab?

When WarmlyYours electric floor heating systems are being installed on a concrete slab, we strongly recommend adding a layer of insulation over the slab prior to installing the system. While our electric floor heating provides up to 25% more heating power per square foot than many of our competitors, the slab will always act as a "heat sink." Some of the heat that would otherwise be transferred to the flooring surface will remain in the slab, causing the floor’s surface temperature to be considerably lower. This is true with any electric radiant floor heating system.

When installed on top of a concrete slab without insulation, it is generally accepted that electric floor heating will take the chill away from the floor and provide a small amount of warmth. Adding insulation on top of the slab and beneath any electric radiant floor heating system will allow a greater percentage of the heat generated to transfer to the flooring surface. This results in greater efficiency and therefore faster warm up times, higher expected surface temperatures and lower energy usage. The floor will have the capacity to warm to a comfortable temperature, and in some cases can be employed as the primary heat source for that room.

The recommended types of insulation are natural cork, insulated tile backer boards and insulated underlayment, such as ThermalSheet™ synthetic cork.

9 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

What is the total power/amperage that the electric floor heating system draws and does this system need a dedicated circuit?

The amount of amperage draw depends upon how large the area is that you are heating. For coverage of areas less than 30 square feet, the system will draw less than 3 or 4 amps. If you have a larger area over 120 square feet of heated space, then you may need a larger breaker plus additional controls. No matter what the size of the area you choose to heat, we recommend a dedicated circuit for your electric radiant floor heating system.

8 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

Can I use electric floor heating as a primary heat source?

Yes, in most cases, an electric floor heating system can be effective as a primary heat source. However, our TempZone™ and Environ™ systems are most commonly used as a secondary heat source, providing floor-to-ceiling radiant heat to any room in your home where you desire more warmth and comfort.

If you are considering electric floor heating for an addition to your home, such as a sunroom where you have no other source of heat, WarmlyYours offers an innovative online tool which calculates approximate heat loss. This tool can help you to determine if a WarmlyYours’ electric radiant floor heating system will provide your desired comfort temperature throughout the year. You can access the Heat Loss Calculator or you can call us at (800) 875-5285 and a Customer Service Representative will make the calculation for you.

7 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

How are hydronic and electric floor heating systems different?

While both hydronic (heated water) and electric floor heating systems perform a similar function by providing radiant heat from beneath your floor, they do differ in some pretty crucial ways. Typically, using hot water instead of electricity will result in lower operational costs but significantly higher investment and maintenance costs. This usually means that hydronic heating systems are reserved for new construction projects (where it is easier to incorporate the boilers and pumps needed to operate the system) and electric floor heating is often used for remodeling projects in bathrooms, kitchens, etc. To learn more about the differences between these systems, check out this post

7 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

Do radiant heating products have polarity?

Electric-resistance heating cables and systems have no polarity. This includes all current WarmlyYours heating elements.

7 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

How can I make my basement warmer?

A floor heating system can work as a supplemental heating source and make the basement warmer. If more heat needs to be added to the room, you can experiment with setting the floor heating thermostat to higher temperatures.

6 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

How much does it cost to heat a bathroom floor with electric floor heating?

A typical bathroom floor can be heated for about a quarter a day with electric radiant floor heating.

6 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

Will the flooring manufacturer still warrant with electric floor heating underneath?

Always check with the flooring manufacturer to see what they will cover when it comes to floor heating. In most cases there will be a floor temperature limit - this can be programmed into a programmable or smart thermostat. Check for installation instructions and requirements before adding floor heating.

6 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

What breaker and wire size do I need to use for a floor heating system?

The breaker and wire sizes are selected based on the total amperage of the WarmlyYours heating system connected to a single thermostat. This information is on the WarmlyYours heating system's installation plan, electrical plan, or UL label. Based on guidelines from the National Electrical Code: loads up to 16 Amps may utilize 12 gauge wire with a 20-Amp breaker, and loads up to 12 Amps - 14 gauge wire with a 15-Amp breaker. Local code and/or other factors may change these guidelines.

6 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

Do I have to replace my floor to install electric floor heating?

Yes. While there are some floor heating systems that can be installed beneath floor joists, most electric radiant floor heating systems will need to be installed beneath the floor itself. This is why the best time to install electric floor heating is during a remodel or as a part of a new construction, when a floor is being installed anyways. 

If you're interested in alternative radiant heating methods, check out our Radiant Panels, which are wall-mounted and use infrared technology to provide supplemental heating. 

5 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

What temperature will my heated floor reach?

The temperature of your floor can range anywhere between 75°F to 95°F. The floor's actual temperature will depend on a number of factors including the amount of heat loss that the room experiences as well as the room’s configuration. For instance, the warmth contained in a two story entry way would likely be less than that of a smaller, more enclosed area such as a bathroom. In a bathroom that is located on the second floor of your home or over another floor in your home that is typically heated, the temperature of your heated floor should easily reach a comfortable temperature of 85 degrees Fahrenheit, if the electric floor heating system is installed correctly. For the heat loss calculation for your specific room, you can access the Heat Loss Calculator or you can call us at (800) 875-5285 and a Customer Service Representative will make the calculation for you.

4 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

How does electric floor heating work?

Electric floor heating works by having an electric heating cable installed underneath the flooring (embedded or floating, depending on the system and floor type), which is then wired to a special thermostat (either one specifically designed for electric radiant floor heating, like a WarmlyYours’ nSpiration Series control, or a third-party thermostat). When turned on, the heating cable emits heat upward through the flooring which is then radiated throughout the room, heating all solid surfaces. 

3 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

How does electric floor heating compare to central or forced air heating?

Typically, electric floor heating is used as a supplemental heat source but in some cases, it can be used as a primary heat source. Electric floor heating is more energy efficient, less prone to spreading dust and allergens, and easier to control from room to room. Air-based heating systems can be used for both heating and cooling and can be a good way to control air quality in the home with regular maintenance. 

For a more in-depth answer to this question, check out Your ‘Cheat Sheet’ for Radiant Heat vs. Forced Air

3 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

Can the floor heating be set to turn on at certain times when we know we will use those areas and need heating?

Yes, with our programmable thermostats, you can choose which days and times the floor heating turns on for your comfort. With a Smart thermostat, you can also control these options from your phone while away from home.

3 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

How can I make my room warmer without a heater?

Floor heating will typically add the most heat to supplement an existing heating source and it will not take any extra space since it is embedded in the floor. If you are not remodeling your floors but have some open wall space, you should mount a radiant panel. For the most effective results, install the panel so that it points toward the area where you will spend most of the time.

2 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

Can the floor heating be set to turn on at certain times when we know we will use those areas and need heating?

Yes, with our programmable thermostats, you can choose which days and times the floor heating turns on for your comfort. With a Smart thermostat, you can also control these options from your phone while away from home.

2 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

What if I have cracks in my concrete slab? Will that affect the floor heating installation?

Make sure any cracks or raised edges are sanded down before installation. Seal and patch cracks where possible. If needed, pour a layer of self-leveling cement to make sure surface is level and flat. Then proceed with instructions to install desired floor heating system and flooring.


It is strongly recommended that an insulating underlayment be installed between the slab and heating element to prevent heat loss.

2 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

What is the warranty for the Environ™ floor heating system?

Environ™ Floor Heating Systems are backed by WarmlyYours 5 and 10 year “No Nonsense™ Warranty* and WarmlyYours highly recognized lifetime 24/7 technical support. Due to the fact that we will also cover not only the cost of labor, but also the cost of the floor itself, our warranty is renowned for being an industry best. Our “No Nonsense™ Warranty” for Environ covers 5 years for under carpet applications and 10 years for under laminate or floating wood floors.

2 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

Is the Environ™ floor heating system installed directly up to the base of the wall? Can I have it installed under large furniture like a couch?

For carpet applications, we require a minimum of 12" around the room's perimeter so that a carpet stretcher can be used without damaging the Environ roll or mat. With laminate floors, you can install it wall to wall. We do not recommend heating under heavy pieces of furniture (100lb/ft2) or box-bottom furniture. We recommend 2 inches of clearance underneath furniture placed over electric floor heating. Floor heating cannot be installed underneath permanent fixtures like cabinets, built-ins, etc.

2 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

What wood species are recommended or not for floor heating? Is Engineered or solid better? Nailed down or floating?

The most important factor for the wood floor chosen is structural stability.

According to the USDA Forest Service, this list shows most dimensionally stable to least: 

  • Mesquite 
  • Australian Cypress 
  • Teak 
  • Santos Mahogany
  • American Cherry
  • South Yellow Pine 
  • Douglas Fir 
  • American Walnut 
  • Brazilian Cherry 
  • Hard Maple 
  • Red Oak 
  • True Hickory
  • American Beech

Engineered is the most structurally stable compared to natural hardwood, so it will work the best with floor heating.
If you do want to go with Hardwood, quartersawn or riftsawn narrow planks are the most structurally stable and would work best for this application.

Overall the most important factor for the room is relative humidity. Keeping a consistent humidity and temperature in the home will help wood floors last for many years to come.

    2 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Can carpet be used over underfloor heating?

    Yes, carpet does not significantly impact the effectiveness of floor heating. In fact, we have Environ Flex Rolls made specifically for under carpet installation (U.S. only).

    2 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    What is the typical operating cost of the Environ™ floor heating system?

    The actual cost of operating your floor heating system will vary depending upon a number of factors including the cost of electricity in your area and the length of time you run your system. Try our Operating Cost Calculator for a quick estimate.

    2 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    How many square feet of floor heating can be connected to one thermostat?

    One thermostat can control multiple heating mats/cables as long as all the elements are using less than 15 amps. For TempZone™ Flex Roll systems for example that would be maximum of 120 sq.ft. for 120V systems and 240 sq.ft. for 240V.

    2 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Should you leave underfloor heating on all the time?

    An electric underfloor heating system doesn't need to be left on all the time. The system can be completely turned off or set back to a lower temperature when not in use. If you have a programmable floor heating thermostat, then the system can also be set to operate only during specific times.

    2 people found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Can you use a sunroom in the winter?

    Yes, sunrooms can be used in the winter, just activate your floor heating or radiant panel and turn your sunroom into a 4-season room. You will notice a tremendous difference in the room comfort, especially with the thermostat set to maintain a desired ambient temperature. WarmlyYours thermostats will do the work for you by energizing the floor for longer cycles.

    1 person found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    What is the recommended temperature for a heated kitchen floor?

    Everyone has their own comfortable temperature setting, but we typically find that our customers use their thermostats to set the "floor temperature" of the system in the 78°F - 84°F range.

    1 person found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Should you leave underfloor heating on all the time?

    An electric underfloor heating system doesn't need to be left on all the time. The system can be completely turned off or set back to a lower temperature when not in use. If you have a programmable floor heating thermostat, then the system can also be set to operate only during specific times.

    1 person found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Do I need to acclimate the bamboo flooring to my home's temperature and moisture levels before installation?

    Yes, acclimation is an important first step to extending the life of bamboo flooring. Typically you want to place it in the room where you’ll be installing it for at least 3 to 7 days, with the radiant heating system on. This allows the bamboo flooring to acclimate to the room’s standard temperature and balance with the environment. However, make sure to always defer to the bamboo flooring manufacturer's instructions.

    1 person found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    I have multiple Environ™ flex rolls, how do I connect them to the thermostat?

    Multiple Environ™ products may be connected in parallel directly to a thermostat or through the junction box. Please ensure the total amperage of all connected mats doesn’t exceed the thermostat’s maximum load.

    1 person found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Does the laminate flooring have to be a certain thickness to allow radiant heating to work properly? Can underlayment (moisture/sound barrier) still be used?

    Check the flooring r-value before installing. As long as the flooring product has an r-value of 1 or less, it should work well with electric floor heating. Underlayment must be placed on the subfloor and be placed under the heating layer. For ease of installation, we strongly recommend the underlayment be at least 1/4" thick, and the heating element should be placed between the underlayment and the flooring. Do not place any underlayment between the element and the flooring.

    1 person found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Is bamboo flooring a good selection for radiant heated floor?

    The short answer is yes but there are some other factors to keep in mind. For example, Bamboo flooring typically has a higher thermal resistance than tile, so the heating performance may be slightly diminished. Wood, bamboo, linoleum, cork and carpet all have different R-values (from 1 to 3) and they typically use an underlayment or a pad with an R-value of 1 to 2. The question naturally arises whether the radiant heat can effectively heat through all of that. Radiant heat transfers energy depending upon the density, humidity, and thermal resistance of the object. Ideally, the lower the R-value in the floor and underlayment, the better. Some underlayments, made from synthetic rubber, have extremely low R-values and are ideal for radiant heated floors because they allow the heat to transfer through more quickly.

    1 person found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Can I have one thermostat for my open floor kitchen, dining room and living room?

    We usually recommend that you have an individual thermostat for each room. However, if it's an open floor plan and your local electrical code allows you to have one controller for the whole area, then it's definitely possible to have it all controlled from one thermostat.

    1 person found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Can I put furniture on top of underfloor heating?

    Yes, but any furniture that may trap heat, such as pieces with an enclosed bottom, should be avoided. Furniture on legs with a clearance of at least 3" is permissible.

    1 person found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Does this system work with Cork Flooring?

    Cork flooring can be used with floor heating if the r-value is under 1. You will need to find the r-value of the flooring you choose and let your account manager know during the design stage. Cork flooring should have a low r-value to minimize trapped heat.

    1 person found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    What underlayments are compatible with Environ Heating System?

    Any type of underlayment/padding may be used as long as it has a density of 6-8 pounds per cubic foot. Certain underlayment, such as ¼” (6mm) thick cork, or 6mm ThermalSheet are recommended for Environ™ Flex Rolls. It is also acceptable to place a vapor barrier, such as a plastic sheet, under the underlayment. Underlayment papers are not compatible with Environ™ Flex Rolls. Underlayment is necessary to prevent Environ™ Flex Rolls from damage from the weight of the floor, furniture, and people. Unavoidable wooden floor movements will not harm Environ™ Flex Rolls. Wooden floors expand and contract with temperature and moisture change. The wooden floor “moves” on top of Environ™ Flex Rolls. This movement will not damage Environ™ Flex Rolls when the installation is done correctly and the underside of the final floor covering is installed evenly. Some underlayment materials also have a noise reducing and insulating effect. When installing over concrete, a ¼” underlayment is mandatory. Any underlayment available in ¼” size is acceptable in most cases. ThermalSheet, cork, or ¼” to 3/8” of expanded polystyrene (EPS) with a density of 2 pounds per cubic foot or more, are recommended for installation under Environ™ Flex Rolls. When installing over a concrete slab, choose the underlayment with the highest R-Value.

    1 person found this helpful.  Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    How do I prepare my living room for extreme cold?

    Having floor heating installed and set to a higher temperature during particularly cold days will help to maintain a comfortable temperature level by providing supplemental heat.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    How thick are the Environ rolls and their electrical cord?

    The roll and mat is 1/16" thick, and the cord is 1/4" in diameter.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    How can I make my living room feel warmer?

    Simply set your floor heating thermostat to a comfortable temperature to maintain a nice warm floor. Your room will feel warmer and, typically, your furnace will cycle less often.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    What underlayments are compatible with Environ Heating System?

    Any type of underlayment/padding may be used as long as it has a density of 6-8 pounds per cubic foot. Certain underlayment, such as ¼” (6mm) thick cork, or 6mm ThermalSheet are recommended for Environ™ Flex Rolls. It is also acceptable to place a vapor barrier, such as a plastic sheet, under the underlayment. Underlayment papers are not compatible with Environ™ Flex Rolls. Underlayment is necessary to prevent Environ™ Flex Rolls from damage from the weight of the floor, furniture, and people. Unavoidable wooden floor movements will not harm Environ™ Flex Rolls. Wooden floors expand and contract with temperature and moisture change. The wooden floor “moves” on top of Environ™ Flex Rolls. This movement will not damage Environ™ Flex Rolls when the installation is done correctly and the underside of the final floor covering is installed evenly. Some underlayment materials also have a noise reducing and insulating effect. When installing over concrete, a ¼” underlayment is mandatory. Any underlayment available in ¼” size is acceptable in most cases. ThermalSheet, cork, or ¼” to 3/8” of expanded polystyrene (EPS) with a density of 2 pounds per cubic foot or more, are recommended for installation under Environ™ Flex Rolls. When installing over a concrete slab, choose the underlayment with the highest R-Value.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Will the floor heating system burn the laminate or carpet?

    No, as long as a licensed electrician properly installs it. We suggest setting your nSpiration Series thermostat control at a maximum of 85°F when the system is installed under laminate flooring. See your laminate manufacturer for their requirements regarding their product when used with electric radiant heat.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Is there a visual height difference between carpets with Environ™ underneath and without and will the heating system make a crunching sound under my feet?

    The height difference and sound is purely dependent on the choice of carpet and padding. Different carpets and carpet pads have different qualities and will be a determining part of height and sound.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    What wood laminates are compatible with Environ™ Heating System?

    Verify that your laminate is warranted for use with radiant heat. Most modern wood laminate floors are compatible with Environ™ Flex Rolls, but the maximum thickness of the timber / laminate / wooden flooring should not exceed 5/8” (15mm). Flooring that has metallic strips as part of its locking system is NOT compatible, as these metallic strips may damage the Environ™ Flex Rolls. Also laminates that have their pad already attached to the laminate are not compatible with the Environ™ Flex Rolls.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    What is the warranty for the Environ™ floor heating system?

    Environ™ Floor Heating Systems are backed by WarmlyYours 5 and 10 year “No Nonsense™ Warranty* and WarmlyYours highly recognized lifetime 24/7 technical support. Due to the fact that we will also cover not only the cost of labor, but also the cost of the floor itself, our warranty is renowned for being an industry best. Our “No Nonsense™ Warranty” for Environ covers 5 years for under carpet applications and 10 years for under laminate or floating wood floors.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    I have multiple Environ™ flex rolls, how do I connect them to the thermostat?

    Multiple Environ™ products may be connected in parallel directly to a thermostat or through the junction box. Please ensure the total amperage of all connected mats doesn’t exceed the thermostat’s maximum load.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    What if I have cracks in my concrete slab? Will that affect the floor heating installation?

    Make sure any cracks or raised edges are sanded down before installation. Seal and patch cracks where possible. If needed, pour a layer of self-leveling cement to make sure surface is level and flat. Then proceed with instructions to install desired floor heating system and flooring. It is strongly recommended that an insulating underlayment be installed between the slab and heating element to prevent heat loss.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    What is the typical operating cost of the Environ™ floor heating system?

    The actual cost of operating your floor heating system will vary depending upon a number of factors including the cost of electricity in your area and the length of time you run your system. Try our Operating Cost Calculator for a quick estimate.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Does the laminate flooring have to be a certain thickness to allow radiant heating to work properly? Can underlayment (moisture/sound barrier) still be used?

    Check the flooring r-value before installing. As long as the flooring product has an r-value of 1 or less, it should work well with electric floor heating. We suggest the underlayment be placed under the heating layer. The heating element should be placed between the underlayment (preferably at least 1/4") and the flooring.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    How do you avoid a "spongy" feel for wood floors when using a floor heating system while still providing optimal heat transfer?

    We recommend our floating floor heating system for floating wood floors, such as laminate or bamboo. With an insulating layer between the subfloor and heating system, the heating cables will settle into the underlayment making for a flat surface for the floor covering.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    How many watts per square foot does Environ™ deliver?

    The Environ™ Flex Rolls and Easy Mats are designed to deliver 12 watts per square foot.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    What is the BTU output of these systems?

    For Tempzone it is 51 BTU’s per square foot per hour and for Environ, it is 41. Take the wattage of the product (shown on the product’s label) and multiply that by 3.41. That is the BTU value for that product.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    What should I do with the floor sensor that was included with my floor heating element?

    WarmlyYours has recently begun including floor sensors with our heating elements to help ensure customers will have everything they need for optimal operation of their radiant heating systems.

    The sensor included with your floor heating element can be installed with the heating system (the sensor is equally spaced between runs of the heating wire--see your install manual for more info). Installing this sensor with your floor heating control will enable energy efficient operation of the floor warming system based on the floor temperature instead of the ambient room temperature.

    We generally recommend that you install a second, unconnected backup floor sensor alongside the primary one. In the very unlikely event that your first floor sensor is damaged, this install method will save you from having to pry up flooring to replace a floor sensor. You simply disconnect the damaged sensor from the thermostat and connect the backup sensor.

    In addition to the floor sensor that was included with your heating element, our nSpiration Series thermostats also come with a floor sensor. If you purchase both a heating element and an nSpiration Series thermostat from WarmlyYours, you'll have a primary and a backup floor sensor for your system.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Do I need insulation when installing a floor heating system over a concrete slab?

    When WarmlyYours floor heating systems are being installed on a concrete slab, we strongly recommend adding a layer of insulation over the slab prior to installing the system. While our systems provide up to 25% more heating power per square foot than many of our competitors, the slab will always act as a "heat sink." Some of the heat that would otherwise be transferred to the flooring surface will remain in the slab, causing the floor’s surface temperature to be considerably lower. This is true with any floor warming system.

    When installed on top of a concrete slab without insulation, it is generally accepted that a radiant floor heating system will take the chill away from the floor and provide a small amount of warmth. Adding insulation on top of the slab and beneath any floor heating system will allow a greater percentage of the heat generated to transfer to the flooring surface. This results in greater efficiency and therefore faster warm up times, higher expected surface temperatures and lower energy usage. The floor will have the capacity to warm to a comfortable temperature, and in some cases can be employed as the primary heat source for that room.

    The recommended types of insulation are natural cork, insulated tile backer boards, and insulated underlayment, such as ThermalSheet synthetic cork.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    What’s the difference between hydronic (heated water tubing) and electric floor heating?

    Hydronic systems operate by using heated water pumped through tubing beneath the floor. Electric underfloor heating works with heated cables beneath the floor. Typically, hydronic systems are a good choice for new construction projects and electric systems are better for remodels or single rooms. This is because the high installation costs of hydronic systems (boilers, pumps, etc.) makes them cost-prohibitive for projects like a bathroom or kitchen. Electric radiant heating systems are also easier to repair than hydronic systems if they're damaged. 

    For a more complete answer to this question, check out this blogpost

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Does a floor heating system require a separate GFCI breaker, and if so, what amperage?

    A Warmly Yours indoor floor heating system should not be installed with a GFCI breaker because GFCI protection is built into the thermostat and power module.  And while it's not always required, we strongly recommend a dedicated circuit for each thermostat and power module to limit the occurrence of ground fault nuisance tripping caused by multiple GFCI devices on a circuit. The amperage of a breaker would depend on the amp draw of the heating system. For example, a TempZone Flex Roll (which provides approximately 15 watts of energy output per square foot) that is providing 15 square feet of heating coverage will draw only 225 watts ( 1.9 Amps), so a 15 Amp circuit would suffice.  Always size breakers according to your local Electrical Code requirements. 

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    In regard to heavy or large objects on the floor, how should floor heating be planned to accommodate these?

    An area where large furniture will cover the floor should have enough clearance underneath to allow air to circulate. Any areas where floor heat may be trapped (rugs, box bottom furniture), let your sales rep know so we can design an installation plan around these areas.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Can you install multiple sensors in the floor for one thermostat?

    Yes, you can install multiple sensors while installing the floor heating system. Only one of these sensors should be connected to the floor heating thermostat. Any secondary sensors can be run through conduit up to the thermostat area to be connected in the future should anything happen to the original sensor. The sensor is low voltage and may not need conduit. If conduit is required, it will need to be separate from the return power leads.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Why not develop a heated floor solution for any type of floor rather than specific type of floor?

    There is a way to install floor heating that makes it suitable for any type of floor. By embedding our TempZone systems in self-leveling cement (SLC), you have created a heated subfloor. Almost any low r-value flooring can be installed directly over this for heated floors.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Is there anything different I should do when installing bamboo flooring over a radiant heating system?

    It's important to take extra care when installing bamboo flooring over a radiant heating system. Make sure that you read both the bamboo flooring's and the radiant heating system's installation instructions carefully before beginning.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Do I need to leave the radiant floor heating system set to one temperature with bamboo flooring?

    When using bamboo flooring over radiant heat, it is best to set the temperature and leave it at that temperature. Bamboo flooring will naturally withstand temperature changes(it’s one of the many advantages of bamboo flooring), however, it performs best when radiant heat is set to a constant temperature without changing more than a few degrees per hour. Also, never let the "floor temperature" for the radiant heating system exceed the maximum temperature identified by the flooring manufacturer.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    With bamboo floors, can I add the radiant heat to just a specific section of the floor or does the whole floor need to be heated?

    It is recommended that bamboo flooring is heated evenly with a "full coverage" design for the heating system.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Can you heat under the appliances, fixtures, or furniture in a laundry room, mudroom, or utility room?

    No, it is recommended that floor heating only be installed in the areas that you will walk on. Heat can become trapped if installed under objects that do not offer enough clearance for air to circulate (such as a washer or dryer).

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    How can I make my living room feel warmer?

    Simply set your floor heating thermostat to a comfortable temperature to maintain a nice warm floor. Your room will feel warmer and, typically, your furnace will cycle less often.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    How many watts per square foot does Environ™ deliver?

    The Environ™ Flex Rolls and Easy Mats are designed to deliver 12 watts per square foot.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    I have a pre-attached underlayment on my laminate flooring, can I use Environ™?

    Most Laminates with an attached cork, foam, or rubber backing are not good Environ™ heated flooring candidates. There are exceptions of course, check the manufacturers warranty information and compatibility of the flooring product with electrically heated floors. If the laminate has a pre-attached pad, verify that laminate has an R-Value of 1 or less.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Will the flooring manufacturer still warrant with electric floor heating underneath?

    Always check with the flooring manufacturer to see what they will cover when it comes to floor heating. In most cases there will be a floor temperature limit - this can be programmed into a programmable or smart thermostat. Check for installation instructions and requirements before adding floor heating.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Where to connect the ground wire of floor mats/cables?

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Can I install vinyl flooring, including Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) or Luxury Vinyl Planks (LVP), over the Environ™ Easy Mats or Environ™ Flex Rolls?

    No. Most vinyl flooring requires a solid flat surface to maintain its shape and many recommend that their flooring is kept at least ½“ away from the heating element. The best solution for vinyl floor covering is our TempZone™ floor heating cable or mats embedded in self leveling cement. Always check with the flooring product's manufacturer regarding limitations, warranties, and installation requirements.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No

    Can Environ Flex Rolls be cut and turned at 90° or 180°?

    Environ Flex Rolls can be cut (the body of the roll can be cut but never cut the heating wire) and turned at 90° or 180° to cover the total area intended to be heated. Make sure that Environ Flex Rolls are installed with the correct orientation (wire side down) and ensure that the side marked “THIS SIDE UP” is facing upwards.

    Did you find this helpful? Yes No