Re: [GBlist] Re: Big Green: Radiant Floor Heating

[David Seth Melchert <dmelchert@earthlink.net>]

Bettina & Steve wrote:

> ... You can't really count on the earth below the slab eventually
> stabilizing at room temperature, so you really need to reduce the reverse
> losses as much as possible.  This is more critical than the usual under slab
> and/or perimeter insulation because of the elevated temperature of the slab.
>
> I have questions related to radiant slab heat:  Should a concrete slab for a
> refrigerated walk-in box be insulated, both perimeter and base?  Should a
> concrete slab under a walk-in freezer be insulated perimeter and base?
>
> In the refrigerated WIB, part of the design is to maintain a certain level
> of humidity, so there is a fair amount of water on the floor from time to
> time.  No need to utilize any extra thermal mass or be concerned with water
> vapor going in either direction.
>
> I've assumed that in the refrigerator, insulation would be a help, given
> that the ground maintains a constant what 55 degrees, and the WIB a constant
> 40 degrees F.  In the freezer, it seems that it would be a necessity
> (constant <0F).
>
> Any thoughts or experience?
>
> Thanks,
> Steve

You bet you want to insulate!

And be sure your foam panels are wired down/weighted. They will float up through
the wet conrete when you are trying to pour it!! It's funny, except when you are
actually having to deal with it.

Seth


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