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How Radiant Floor Heating Works and How It Could Benefit Your Home

Written by Kevin on January 18, 2023. Posted in Hydronic Heating, Radiant Heating.

Homeowners deplore walking on cold floors at any time of year, yet most fail to recognize that it is a fixable problem. Although popularly considered a personal luxury, radiant floor heating is viable for anyone who wants to increase their comfort, their home’s energy efficiency, and their property’s value. You can explore this opportunity by seeking professionals for radiant floor heating maintenance and installation.

Argent Heating & Cooling specializes in radiant heating services for homeowners in the Washington, DC, Metro area. Our team of experts can help you with radiant heat repair, maintenance, and installation. Moreover, we can service numerous underfloor heating system types, including baseboard, geothermal, and solar thermal heating. Contact us online or call (703) 281-6300 for more information!

Below, we discuss how radiant heating works and could benefit your home:

How Radiant Floor Heating Works

Radiant floor heating uses air, electricity, or hot water to warm the floors in your home. Electric systems employ subfloor electric cables or mats, while hydronic systems circulate hot water through subfloor tubing. Both options have their benefits and suit different types of homes and budgets.

Regardless of the type of radiant floor heating you choose, you should end up with warm, comfortable floors. Imagine stepping out of a steamy shower onto a bathroom heated floor, making breakfast on cozy kitchen flooring, or walking through your home on warm hallway floors. Radiant heating belongs under all frequented areas of your home, and you can control it on a room-by-room basis.

Consistent Comfort

Unlike traditional heating systems that rely on convection to circulate warm air, radiant heating systems warm up surfaces directly, starting with the floors. This way, you can heat your home more consistently and comfortably.

With conventional heating, the hot air tends to rise to the ceiling, leaving the lower levels of your home feeling cold. However, radiant floor heating distributes heat evenly throughout the room, eliminating cold spots and creating a more comfortable environment overall.

Energy Efficiency

Traditional heating systems often lose heat through ducts and vents. Since radiant heat is distributed directly to the room’s surfaces—rather than circulating through the air—the system is more energy-efficient than conventional heating systems.

For instance, running radiant heating 24/7 would cost $1 to $5 per day as opposed to $20 per day for a traditional system. That said, many homeowners run their radiant heating only in certain rooms at select times. Doing so results in less heat loss, lower energy bills, and a reduced carbon footprint.

Value-Add Opportunity

Radiant floor heating is an ideal investment for homeowners looking to upgrade their homes and boost their value. It’s a desirable feature many home buyers seek in a new home, and whenever there’s demand, you can expect to see a significant ROI when selling your home.

Indeed, radiant floor heating can lower energy bills, operate with low maintenance, and boast a long lifespan—more than justifying its value-add cost. Despite its relatively high upfront price, radiant heating can cost 25 to 50% less to run and maintain than other heating systems. Plus, its lifespan is 30 to 45 years, compared to traditional heating methods’ 10- to 25-year life expectancy.

Hire for Radiant Floor Heating Maintenance in the Washington, DC, Metro Area

Don’t let the cold weather keep you from feeling comfortable in your own home. Take advantage of the comfort, energy, and value benefits of radiant floor heating. If you’re interested in adding such a heating system to your home or need help with radiant floor heating maintenance, look to Argent Heating & Cooling. Talk to one of our expert technicians today by visiting our website or calling (703) 281-6300.

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How a Geothermal Heating Installation Can Cut Your Energy Costs

Written by Kevin on January 4, 2023. Posted in Radiant Heating.

A geothermal heating system can cut energy costs by up to 80%. Its on-site electricity generator and low maintenance make it a reliable “green” option that’s becoming more popular among homeowners. However, geothermal heating system installation is no DIY project. Instead, contact your local geothermal heating installation company to discuss the benefits of geothermal heating and whether such a system would suit your needs.

A professional home services provider serving the Washington, DC, Metro area, Argent Heating & Cooling has helped homeowners for 30+ years. We specialize in numerous home services, including generator installation, hydronic heating installation, and more. Our skilled technicians have the tools and experience to keep your home comfortable for years to come. Contact us at (703) 281-6300 for a reliable and affordable geothermal heating system installation.

Below, we discuss how geothermal heating systems can reduce your energy costs:

What is Geothermal Heating?

Geothermal heating systems harness air from just below the Earth’s surface using a heat pump and buried pipe systems, which transfer underground air into your home and vice versa. During the summer, the geothermal system draws heat from your home and replaces it with cool underground air. During winter, it draws heat from the ground and pumps it into your home.

What Are the Benefits?

Design flexibility – Professionals can install geothermal heat pump systems in new and existing structures (the latter through retrofit). Moreover, since the systems leverage underground temperatures, they work well in most climates. Finally, geothermal systems can provide air for multiple zones in a structure, each of which you can control individually.
Minor required maintenance – Due to its underground functioning, geothermal heating has few visible parts. These systems need no rooftop units and facilitate significant design flexibility. They also require far less upkeep than conventional systems.
Energy efficiency – One of this heating system’s critical benefits, geothermal heating systems are energy efficient. They reduce energy consumption—and corresponding emissions—up to 44% compared to air-source heat pumps and 72% compared to electric resistance heating systems.

Invest in a geothermal heating system for low-maintenance, energy-efficient HVAC. A qualified geothermal heating installation company can do the job for you at an affordable rate.

Geothermal Systems vs. Other Options

If you’re debating geothermal heating against air-source heat pumps, note that both transport heat energy from one place to another but diverge in how they operate. Geothermal systems utilize underground temperatures, while air-source heating systems use above-ground air. While the former are more expensive upfront and require more space, they have longer lifespans and work more efficiently than the latter.

When we compare geothermal vs. forced air systems, forced-air systems use air ducts and vents to distribute air throughout your home, which inevitably produces sounds. Geothermal systems, however, direct hot indoor air into the cool ground and vice versa by implementing basic scientific principles, processes that create little sound. By contrast, central AC systems fight gravity as they force indoor heat into the hot outdoors, consuming massive amounts of energy and producing significant noise.

How Does Geothermal Heating Save You Money?

Geothermal heat pumps don’t generate heat, just transfer it from the ground into your home or vice versa. For every unit of system energy used, 4 units of heat energy are transferred. Only one-third to one-fourth of the power comes from electricity consumption—the rest comes from the ground!

Since geothermal heating systems don’t use fuel, you’re cutting out its costs completely (What Is Geothermal Energy and How Can You Use it At Home? | Redfin). As the prices of natural gas, propane, and heating oil increase, so do the savings associated with geothermal heating increase.

The Installation Process

Geothermal heating system installation requires specialized technical HVAC knowledge and expert hands to install the piping. Contact your local geothermal heating installation company to handle the job and your insurance provider to check whether your plan covers geothermal pumps.

Qualified Geothermal Heating Installation in the Washington, DC, Metro Area

Geothermal heating systems are an ideal energy-efficient home heating option for those looking to be sustainable and comfortable in their homes. Argent Heating & Cooling is a geothermal heating installation company serving residents of the Washington, DC, Metro Area. Our highly trained and experienced technicians meet your needs with high-quality work and excellent customer service. Contact us at (703) 281-6300 for a free project estimate!

Installing Radiant Floor Heating Washington DC Metro Area

The 3 Types of Radiant Floor Heating

Written by Kevin on September 2, 2021. Posted in Radiant Heating.

Radiant heat refers to the warmth that emanates off hot surfaces. Engineers have applied this phenomenon to create indoor radiant heating systems, which deliver warmth through floors, walls, or ceilings. Over time, designers have refined these systems into air-heated, electric, and hydronic floor heating. And installing radiant floor heating is as easy as calling your local service company.

If you live in the Washington, DC, Metro area, reach out to Argent Heating & Cooling. We are the region’s provider of heating and cooling, generator, and radiant floor heating installations and repairs. Our team also offers indoor air quality testing, appliance repairs, and routine maintenance appointments. For over 30 years, homeowners have relied on us to keep their families comfortable and safe from outdoor elements. So, turn to our experts for 24/7 support services at (703) 281-6300 or fill out our service form today!

Below, we describe the distinctions between radiant floor heating systems and their benefits:

Radiant Floor Heating Types

Air-Heated Radiant Floors
Although based on the same principle, radiant floor, wall, and ceiling systems deliver heat in distinct ways. However, we will focus on floor heating here, which uses heat convection to warm a house’s occupants.

The first kind of floor heating system is the air-heated variety. Since these systems use air to carry heat, they tend to be inefficient in homes (air can hold only small amounts of heat). Thus, we usually direct clients toward other options.
Electric Radiant Floors
The second option is the electric radiant heating system, which requires electric cables built into floors. This option works best in particular circumstances: for instance, with high-mass flooring (like concrete) that absorbs a lot of heat. Running electricity through the cables “charges” the flooring, which then releases warmth over the following hours.

Since electricity costs can run high, this system is most efficient if you “charge” the flooring during your energy company’s non-peak hours. Additionally, electric radiant floors may suit home additions when you cannot extend your home’s heating system into the new space.
Hydronic Radiant Floors
The hydronic radiant floor is the final and most efficient option for radiant floor heating. In this system, a boiler pumps heated water through piping that runs within the flooring. Water has a higher heat capacity than air, so it holds much more warmth.

Some systems use zoning valves and several pumps to control the flow of water and, by extension, the air temperature. These features can increase a system’s efficiency.

Benefits of Radiant Heating

There are several advantages to installing a radiant heat flooring system, which we’ve hinted at above. Specifically, these include:

Greater energy efficiency than traditional baseboard and forced-air heating, particularly with a hydronic flooring system (though this depends on your region and your home’s design)
Less allergy irritation, since radiant heating kicks up none of the allergens that forced-air systems do
Alternative energy options, since hydronic systems can use standard gas- or oil-fired boilers as well as wood-fired boilers or solar water heaters.

Nevertheless, no two homes are alike. We suggest that you consider a custom heating & cooling system for your home – you can get the best value from a system that’s designed for your structure.

Radiant Floor Heating Installation and Repair Available in the Washington, DC, Metro Area

As we look forward to the fall season, consider how installing radiant floor heating could keep your home warm this winter. Whether you have questions or want immediate installation, reach out to Argent Heating & Cooling. We are the Washington, DC, Metro area’s provider of HVAC, generator, water heater, and more services. Our team of technicians has the training and experience to handle virtually any problems that arise with these systems. To schedule an appointment today, call us at (703) 281-6300 or fill out our contact form online.

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Tips on Staying Energy Efficient

Written by Kevin on September 18, 2019. Posted in HVAC, Radiant Heating.

Contrary to Energy Star’s recent recommended temperatures to set your home to, many HVAC companies are advising differently. It is important to research the appropriate temperature for your household because constantly changing your thermostat’s temperature can impair your unit.

At Argent Heating & Cooling, we offer over 35 years of expert heating and cooling experience to customers throughout the Washington D.C. Metro area. We have performed a number of air conditioning maintenance & repairs, all through a fast and stress-free operation, resulting in consistently high customer satisfaction.

Decide on Temperature

Most likely the temperature outside will influence you on what temperature is comfortable inside your home. The average American home is set to about 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Argent Heating & Cooling recommends a stable mid-range temperature to help you save more on your energy costs.

Implement Routine AC Unit Maintenance

If you maintain your AC unit, you might be able to extend its lifespan. One of the most important steps you can take is changing the unit’s filters and then cleaning around the unit itself. Make sure that the unit is level because if it is sitting on uneven ground the compressor can fail early. Argent Heating & Cooling can help you with your repair services so you can rest assured that your unit will live a long, productive life.

What Involves Air Conditioning Installation?

When you are choosing your desired air conditioning unit, it’s advisable to choose an air conditioner with a high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) number to help you save more on costs. Secondly, you should choose a company you can trust with your installation, so make sure you do your research when looking for a reputable heating & cooling service provider.

Professional Air Conditioning Installation & Air Conditioning Repair Services in the Washington D.C. Area

After going through the checklist above, it’s understandable to be a bit overwhelmed. It is also why many homeowners and renters do not think to maintain their appliances until something goes wrong. The professionals at Argent Heating & Cooling will always be here to assist you when things go wrong with your appliances.

If you are considering scheduling routine maintenance, we can provide that as well for your convenience. Our technicians will keep your appliances in top condition with our expert air conditioning maintenance & repair services, which will allow your home to run smoothly and will help you stay comfortable year-round.

Let us provide your next air conditioning maintenance service. Contact us at (703) 281-6300 to schedule a service today!

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What Are Tankless Water Heaters & How Do They Work?

Written by Kevin on June 28, 2019. Posted in Radiant Heating, Water Heaters.

Most homes in the U.S. have tank-type water heaters installed when they are built. While these serve their function well, they aren’t the most efficient, and require great amounts of maintenance over time. This results in numerous expenses, from larger energy bills to the costs of hiring a professional technician. A wise long-term solution would be to purchase and install a tankless water heater or demand water heater.

At Argent Heating & Cooling, our service is about providing our customers with the highest quality appliances, all fitting within any homeowner’s budget. Our appliance services include tankless water heaters, brand new HVAC systems, and first-rate hydronic heating installations, all for customers throughout the Washington D.C. Metro area. Hiring us will involve prompt and worthwhile service from one of our expert technicians.

Here are some things you should know about tankless waters heaters and how they work for those who have them:

What is a Tankless Water Heater?

A tankless water heater is a more energy-efficient alternative to the tank-type water heaters found in most homes in the U.S. They are known as demand-type, or instantaneous water heaters, as their primary function is to produce hot water right when it is needed, and no more after. This is unlike a tank-based water heater, which must constantly heat the water that is in the tank in order to produce hot water at a later point. Thus, a tankless water heater is more energy-efficient, as it only uses up the energy its takes to heat the precise amount of hot water as needed.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, tankless water heaters can be between 24%-34% more energy efficient than traditional water heaters. While the initial costs of installing one may be higher, the decreased cost of maintenance over time and the savings you’ll receive from your energy bill will eventually result in a complete return on investment.

Tank water heaters are also more prone to having issues over time, as they last about 10 to 15 years, punctuated with necessary maintenance services in between. On the other hand, demand water heaters last more than 20 and have components that are more easily replaceable, which means it will still reduce costs for your over time than the alternative.

What are the Functions of a Tankless Water Heater?

If you are thinking of having one installed, it’s important to know the process of how a tankless water heater will function in comparison to the tank-based one you may have now.

Firstly, when you turn on the hot-water tap at your faucet, a flow sensor will notice water heading to the heater, sending a signal to start making hot water to the control panel.
Specifically, when it comes to gas-fired units, the control panel will begin the process of heating water by turning on the fan that will draw in outdoor air.
It will then open the gas valve, which releases gas that will be ignited by the burner.
The heat exchanger will take the heat generated by the burning gas and transfer it to the water moving through its tubing.
After that, the mixing valve will control the temperature of the water leaving the exchanger. A temperature sensor will detect if the water is greater or lesser than the setting you placed on the tap. This will cause the control panel to adjust the gas valve, mixing valve, and flow-regulating water valve, all in order to ensure the water is at the right temperature.
Finally, a sealed vent, or a set of them, will release exhaust gases from the gas valve and burner.

Argent Heating & Cooling: Quality Hydronic Heating Installations in Washington D.C. & Maryland

A demand, or tankless, water heater is a long-term investment for the utility of your home. Among the benefits that you’ll receive are a guaranteed reduction in your home’s energy consumption, your energy bills, and cost of maintenance for your water heater.

To receive a fast and stress-free installation for your tankless water heater, call on a professional HVAC service like Argent Heating and Cooling. We also perform efficient hydronic heating installations, indoor air quality evaluations, and home appliance repair. Our specialists have served Washington D.C. and Maryland for over a decade, providing quick and convenient services at flat rate services.

Contact us at 703-281-6300 to schedule a service call and discuss your heating and cooling needs with one of our specialists today!

Warning Signs You Need to Have Your Hydronic Heating Unit Inspected

Written by Kevin on January 25, 2019. Posted in Radiant Heating, Water Heaters. No Comments on Warning Signs You Need to Have Your Hydronic Heating Unit Inspected

Hydronic heating is an efficient home heating system that uses piping to run a hot liquid beneath the floor, along baseboard heaters, or through radiators. This is a simple approach that can be used to heat your home, which also uses less electricity. However, like any heating system in your home, it is important to know when it is time to get your hydronic heating unit inspected.

Our team at Argent Heating & Cooling wants to help you stay prepared and comfortable in your home all year long. With professional heating repairs available in Northern VA, you can trust our experienced technicians to provide you with the hydronic heating maintenance your home needs. Here are a few of the warning signs that your hydronic heating unit requires a professional repair.

Leaks

A leak can be a serious problem for your hydronic heating system. If any of the heating liquid flowing through your floors or walls leaks, it can severely damage your floors and walls, and become a hazard for your entire family. Be sure to check along the fluid tubing for any signs of leakage and call the specialists at Argent Heating & Cooling to repair it to help keep your home safe!

Inefficient Heating

If the heating in your home feels inconsistent and you’re experiencing many hot and cold spots, call in a specialist to inspect your heating system. It can be as simple of an issue as cleaning the system or it may require replacing entire lines or installing an entire system.

Popping or Rumbling Noise

Any popping or rumbling sounds that are coming from your heating unit can be a sign of sediment build up in the pipes. This can decrease your home’s overall heating, and if not treated immediately, it can lead to serious long-term damage to your home’s piping. One solution to combat this is by flushing out your hydronic heating pipes and water heater. If the sounds persist, then it may mean a professional replacement is necessary.

Electrical Failures

If insulation begins to wear or deteriorate, this can cause serious damage, especially if the hot water finds its way to any low to the floor electrical outlets. If you discover water damage to any of your electrical appliances, you need to get it professionally fixed as soon as possible as it can pose a serious threat to you and your family.

Contact Argent Heating & Cooling in Northern VA for Quality Hydronic Heating Maintenance and Repairs

At Argent Heating and Cooling, we specialize in helping homeowners throughout Northern VA understand the functions of their hydronic heating system. With over 30 years of experience, our company and team of technicians have gained expertise in dealing with a wide range of issues with HVAC systems and how to fix them easily. Let us help you keep your home warm during the harsh winter months! Call us today for more information or fill out a form to schedule a service.

The Three Benefits of Radiant Heating

Written by Kevin on December 20, 2018. Posted in Radiant Heating. No Comments on The Three Benefits of Radiant Heating

Do you ever avoid a certain room in your home because it’s much colder or hotter than the others? While the living room may be warm and cozy during this winter season, your bedroom may be freezing and unbearable. What if there was a way to control the heat and air conditioning throughout your house so you can stay comfortable year-round? Argent Heating & Cooling in Northern Virginia offers radiant floor heating, baseboard heating, and geothermal heating installations and repairs to make your home more welcoming for everyone. Here are a few benefits of having radiant heating installed in your home!

1. Energy Efficient

When it comes to installing heating and cooling systems, one of the main concerns is how much energy will be used. Radiant heating is powered by water or electricity, where the heat is generated in a more natural manner. Heat circulates throughout your home at a more steady pace, saving energy. The most environmentally-friendly type of radiant heating Argent Heating & Cooling offers is geothermal heating. It uses natural heat from the ground to heat your home and then generates it into cool air during the warmer months to maintain a consistent temperature.

2. Money Saving

Heating and cooling systems can be pricey to purchase and get installed, and the energy bills can add up quickly if you aren’t careful. Whether it’s radiant heated floors, baseboard heaters, or geothermal heating, radiant heating systems can save you money because of how energy efficient they are. The ability to control them however you please, such as turning them off if needed, can save money as well. They’re also remotely easy to run, requiring little to no maintenance and further saving you money.

3. Controllable

Maintaining each room at the same temperature can be tedious, and radiant heating is a way to control each individual room on your own. Instead of getting a restless night’s sleep due to a freezing bedroom, you can change it to a temperature suited just for you. You can also avoid the cold tile kitchen floor in the morning with heated flooring!

Live Comfortably with an Argent Heating & Cooling Radiant Floor Heating Installation in Northern VA!

Argent Heating & Cooling offers several different options for radiant heating in Northern Virginia to ensure you can always be comfortable in your own home. Whether it’s floor heating installation, baseboard heater maintenance, or geothermal heating repair, our team at Argent Heating & Cooling will make sure your home is cozy for all seasons. Contact us today at (703) 281-6300 to save on planned maintenance services!

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