For everyone looking for DIY home heating solutions, Coldbuster has compiled a list of installation guides for all our products. If you’re planning to hire out the job, be aware that you will need an Electrician to visit your site twice during the installation of your electrical underfloor heating. Once, to install conduits and power supply, and then again to connect the thermostat to the heater and power once the floor has been overlaid. All of our kits are designed for easy installation, but if you ever need support, Coldbuster is just a phone call away!

Radiant floor heatingcost

The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that you are using one of Coldbuster’s smart programmable thermostats to manage heating schedules effectively and that the settings are optimised for both comfort and efficiency.

Underfloor heating is a form of indoor climate control that uses electrical heating elements embedded underfloor. It produces a gentle warmth that radiates out through the entire room. Depending on the installation, heating is achieved through methods of conduction, radiation or convection, all of which are safe and controllable, producing a gentle warmth that spreads up from the soles of the feet. Underfloor heating can be used on almost any kind of floor, and it is an efficient heating area alternative.

Plumbingradiant floor heating system

If you're in the market for a double check valve assembly, buy Apollo Valves, and buy them from ValveMan.com.  We've been in the industrial valve business for over 50 years and we carry the Apollo Valves brand, including a full line of double check valve assemblies and backflow preventers.  We know all about valves because valves are all we sell.  It's simply what we do, and we do it better than anyone else.  If you would like to know more about why you should choose Apollo Valves, or you would just like further reading, you may enjoy Why Choose Apollo Ball Valves.

Please note that the factors and the assumptions that underpin this Running Cost Calculator mean that results should only be used as a rough guide, as conditions (some of which are listed below) can vary greatly.

The ability to control heating in different zones or rooms independently allows for more precise energy use, heating only the areas that need it.

Double check valves are the workhorse among check valve assemblies.  As they are designed to be more reliable, and handle greater flow capacities--many Apollo double check valves are marketed as backflow preventers--then single check valve systems, double check valves are indispensable when it comes to preventing undesirable backflow and back syphonage.  As a direct cross-connection piece, a double check valve is subjected to both intermittent and constant pressure conditions.  Using a double check valve assembly is smart.  Using double check valves that employ ball valves is even smarter, as these ball valve balls are free-floating, meaning they seat and un-seat in direct response to current and pressure.  There is only one through hole, and the ball is slightly larger than the through hole, providing a tight, reliable seal that prevents water from traveling in the opposite direction.

Yes, you can. The horse has already bolted for in slab heating, but you can install in screed, under tile/under timber & under carpet heating prior to those floor finishes go down.

Apollo 4ALF-207-A2F - 1-1/2", Bronze, Backflow Preventer, Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) Assembly w/ Ball Valves, Lead Free

Draughts from poorly sealed windows and doors, as well as other gaps, can lead to heat loss and increased energy consumption. The type and quality of windows and doors significantly impact heat loss and gain. Double-glazing and well-sealed frames reduce draughts and improve thermal efficiency.The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that your windows, doors, and other potential gaps are well-sealed to prevent drafts and heat loss.

A duty cycle for electric underfloor heating represents the percentage of time the system is actively heating versus its total operational time. After the floor reaches its set temperature, the system cycles on and off to maintain it. The calculator factors this in and assumes a 50% duty cycle.

The type of floor substrate affects heat retention and energy efficiency. Concrete floors, for example, retain heat longer, while timber floors may require more energy to maintain warmth.The assumption is that your floor substrate is conducive to efficient heating, with thermal insulation boards used where necessary to enhance heat retention.

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Efficiency in heating has come a long way, causing running costs of in-floor heating to be much lower than people assume. Coldbuster in-floor heaters use the minimum required output to sufficiently heat a room. Programmable thermostats ensure the desired temperature is efficiently maintained, and they have completely customisable schedules to give you full freedom over your home heating. To further reduce energy consumption and heating costs, our thermostat models can also calculate each room’s lead time requirements, working out how long an area needs to be heated before reaching the set temperature. For more detailed information, check out our Running Cost Calculator for a tailored estimate.

The overall energy efficiency of a building, including factors like construction quality, age, design and energy ratings, all affect its thermal efficiency and hence impacts heating costs. Older buildings may have more heat loss compared to newer, energy-efficient constructions.

Also called a DCA (double check valve assembly), a double check valve is nothing less than a backflow preventer.  Its typical purpose is the prevention of contamination from the phenomena of backflow and backsiphonage polluting potable water supplies.  While this device may appear to be nothing more than a glorified check valve, and is not necessarily suitable for high hazard applications, it is nonetheless perfect for sprinkler and irrigation systems and space-saving combi-boilers.

The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that your ceiling heights are standard (2.4 to 2.7 meters) to maintain optimal energy efficiency and minimize excess energy use.

The temperature set on the thermostat directly affects energy usage. Lowering the thermostat temperature by just a few degrees can significantly reduce running costs without compromising comfort. Programmable and smart thermostats can optimise heating schedules, reducing energy use during non-peak times and enhancing overall efficiency. Setting the thermostat to an optimal temperature (e.g., 20-22°C) during occupied times and lowering it (or even better turning it off) when not in use can significantly affect running costs.

Much like the air brake system valves in tractor trailers, a double check valve employs two separate check valves assembled in a linear series.  The thinking behind this configuration is simple: if one valve fails, the other will continue to operate.  Likewise, an extra valve gives the idea of a fool-proof seal credence, as it reduces the pressure on the first valve, helping to eliminate leakage.

The assumption in this running cost estimate model is based on average climatic conditions specific to the region in Australia where you are located and where the system is installed.

The efficiency of the underfloor heating system itself plays a crucial role. The efficiency determines how effectively it converts electrical energy into heat. Modern systems with advanced controls and high efficiency like Coldbuster use less energy to achieve the desired warmth.The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that your heating system is running efficiently at all times.

The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that your heating system is designed with zoning capabilities for customised temperature control.

The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that your building has high-quality insulation materials installed in the walls, roof, and floor.

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The design of the heating system, including the layout, spacing, and type of heating elements, affects heat distribution and overall efficiency. The size of the room in relation to the heater’s capacity is crucial. An appropriately sized heater ensures efficient heating without overworking the system.

Apollo 4ALF-10G-03 - 10", FDA Epoxy Coated Ductile Iron, Backflow Preventer, Double Check Valve Assembly w/ OSY Gates, Lead Free

The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that your building is relatively modern or has been updated to meet contemporary energy efficiency standards.

Hydronicradiant floor heatingsystems

Apollo 4ALF-10E-03 - 8", FDA Epoxy Coated Ductile Iron, Backflow Preventer, Double Check Valve Assembly w/ OSY Gates, Lead Free

Hot waterradiant floor heatingsystems

The efficiency and cost of the electricity used for heating directly impact running costs. More efficient energy sources and favourable electricity tariffs reduce overall expenses. Electricity prices vary by provider and plan. Choosing an energy-efficient tariff and monitoring peak and off-peak rates can help minimise heating costs.

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Our heater kits can be used with almost any type of floor, including carpet, timber floors, bamboo floors, vinyl and engineered floors. We have compiled extensive information and resources in our resource centre, where you can check compatibility and the safety of using in-floor heating with all kinds of underlays, flooring adhesives, levelling products and more. And, of course, if you need assistance in discussing or choosing a product, please feel free to contact Coldbuster to be sure.

Apollo Valves predominantly uses ball valves for their line of double check valves.  The following example of their double check valve assembly should give you some idea as to why:

The total time the heating system is operational impacts energy consumption. Running the system only when necessary and using programmable thermostats to create heating schedules can optimise usage.The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that your heating is running only when necessary and optimised accordingly.

Proper insulation reduces heat loss, making the heating system more efficient. Effective insulation in your floors, walls and roofs will help maintain the desired temperature with less energy consumption. Better insulation helps retain heat within the room, minimising the energy required to maintain comfort.

Easy and quick to install cable or mat roll solutions make Coldbuster Floor Heating a cost-effective solution. Simple for DIY.

Consistent and predictable usage patterns help in planning and optimising energy consumption. Irregular or excessive use can lead to higher costs.

Traditionally, double check valves have always been spring loaded, but variation on this theme began incorporating the use of ball valves, which many would attest as providing a superior seal and action.  Regardless, using ball valves on a double check valve assembly--if nothing else--permits the control of greater pressures and flow capacities, making them desirable on larger systems.

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Different floor coverings have varying thermal properties. Materials like tile and stone conduct heat efficiently, while carpets and wood may require higher energy to achieve the same comfort level.The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that your flooring material is chosen with consideration of its thermal conductivity and compatibility with the heating system.

Apollo 4ALF-206-A2F - 1-1/4", Bronze, Backflow Preventer, Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) Assembly w/ Ball Valves, Lead Free

Higher ceilings result in larger volumes of air to heat, which can increase energy consumption. Rooms with standard ceiling heights are more energy efficient.

The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that your heating system is designed and installed by experienced Coldbuster installation professionals or other suitably qualified professionals to ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency.

The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that your energy source is cost-effective and the electricity tariff is optimised for heating needs.

The local climate influences heating needs. Colder outdoor temperatures increase the demand for indoor heating. Regions with milder winters require less heating and would therefore typically have lower running costs compared to areas with harsh winter and cold conditions.

All Coldbuster heating products provide adaptable, year-round climate control and are built to last with up to 25 years of warranty! With a rising heat that comes from the floor to head height, in-floor heating is an energy efficient alternative to other heating systems. No heat is lost to the ceilings, meaning warmer rooms and lower energy costs for you. Plus, installed heating elements are fully programmable, allowing you to set your climate control to only heat as and when you need it. You can even use the radiant heat to reduce humidity in rooms and combat the build-up of mould and damp, which is especially useful in bathrooms.