Nowadays, inventions are increasingly appearing that make our lives more comfortable and practical. Among them, portable underfloor heating has become especially popular, as it has become a good source of heat.
This floor has similar properties to its stationary counterpart. It is capable of uniformly heating the air in the desired temperature range, but unlike a stationary floor, installation and maintenance are much less expensive.
Mobile heated floors do not require installation of a floor covering, laying a new layer of waterproofing or screeding work. Having purchased such a floor, you only need to lay it out, set the desired temperature and connect it to the network.
The modern Russian market offers a huge number of heated mobile floors from different companies and countries of origin. Heating elements are constantly being improved. You can even purchase a mobile heated floor under a carpet, the operating principle of which is based on the use of infrared film.
In 2021, this floor became a bestseller. The market offers both models from highly developed countries and Russian manufacturers, which also meet the high requirements and demands of customers.
Mobile infrared film heated floors are far superior to electric mats in terms of their characteristics and the lower amount of electricity consumed. Some advantages of this floor are its mobility and the ability to be installed both under carpets and rugs, and under other types of floor coverings (laminate, parquet boards).
Types of mobile heated floors
Popular varieties of portable heated floors include resistive heating film and infrared-heated film. Let's take a closer look at both of these genders.
Electric floor with resistive film
The operating principle of this sample is identical to the operation of a heated electric cable. It is worth noting that instead of wires, there are metal strips inside this film. They are tightly sealed inside several layers of polymer film. These stripes are located at a minimum distance of 1 mm from each other - this creates the illusion that the film looks like a homogeneous metal. The electrical supply wires are located on the side. The film consists of separate blocks, through which heat is transferred in turn using the convection method.
You can describe the entire heating process like this: strips of metal are heated with the help of electricity, then the floor covering is heated, and as a result it recreates the heat that spreads in the room. It is worth noting that this type of mobile heated floor is laid only in dry rooms, under floor coverings such as laminate, carpet and linoleum.
The structure of the resistive film is fragile and subject to various types of deformation, so the installation process must occur without unnecessary bending and curvature of the entire canvas. Experienced specialists recommend always laying such a floor on top of a special underlay or plastic film to avoid damage.
Electric floor with infrared film
The most common film in this segment is carbon film. The surface of such a film is covered with carbon paste of various sizes, grouped in blocks of 20 units. This feature greatly facilitates the installation of such a floor, making it possible to cut the required piece of canvas for any room. The heater in the form of carbon strips is connected in parallel, which allows the film to be heated even as a result of the rupture of one or several blocks.
There are other types of infrared films, for example, with continuous carbon coating. Warm floors with such a film will continue to emit heat evenly even if the film breaks locally.
Warm floor under carpet: features of choice
The question of whether it is possible to lay a carpet on a warm floor and whether it is worth doing this arises quite often. In addition, many who want to install such a heating system are stopped by the need to remove the main floor covering before installing it: such repairs are always associated with a fairly large investment. Modern manufacturers have offered a simple and effective option - electric heated floors under the carpet.
It is a mobile system that can be easily installed anywhere in the room. To put it into operation, simply connect it to the power supply. Such solutions are especially in demand in the office, nursery, living room, and by the bed in the bedroom. Sometimes heated flooring under the carpet is laid on the balcony for additional heating in cool weather. As a covering, you can use a wicker, pile or lint-free carpet of medium thickness (as it increases, the heat transfer will significantly decrease).
Electric heated floor under carpet: pros and cons
Benefits of portable systems
- Simple and quick installation, mobility of the equipment: before connecting, just spread a mat or film under the floor covering. Dismantling involves disconnecting the device from the power supply. As a result, the warm floor under the carpet can be easily and quickly moved around the house.
- It is possible to regulate the heating temperature using a thermostat. A special rotary lever is provided for control.
- You can lay heated flooring under a carpet on a wooden floor: the temperature does not exceed +30 ⁰С, which makes it absolutely safe for use in such conditions.
- The energy consumption of portable models is similar to stationary versions and is 250 W/m2.
- The mobile heated floor under the carpet is resistant to mechanical damage, corrosion, and temperature changes. If the integrity of the film is damaged, it will continue to work fully.
- Warm floors under carpets operate with an efficiency of 90%.
- A high level of safety is ensured by automatically turning off the mat in the event of a break in the power supply circuits.
- Mobile heated floors under the carpet do not dry out the air, so they are not dangerous for allergy sufferers.
Disadvantages of using film heated floors under carpet
Those who doubt whether it is possible to lay a carpet on an infrared heated floor, as a rule, have only a few arguments.
- Malfunctions of the temperature sensor, which can occur if it is covered with a floor covering;
- The inability to install heavy furniture on a film heated floor under a carpet or carpet (this is due to overheating that occurs in such cases and a decrease in the service life of the heating mat itself);
- Possibility of laying only on a flat surface without significant defects (in places where depressions, bumps, cracks form, the warm floor under the carpet will wrinkle under external pressure, which will lead to additional damage).
Although it is worth recognizing that all of the listed “disadvantages” are rather features of such heating systems.
Warm floor under carpet: features of choice
A portable heated floor under a carpet is a system of standard design, but produced in a completely ready-to-use form. Depending on the design features, it is possible to use a cable or infrared system. In the first case, the mat uses a resistive cable, in the second - a film in a protective sheath, which prevents damage during storage, transportation or during operation. It is worth noting that the infrared floor under the carpet has a thickness of 0.6 mm, and the cable one – 1.8 mm.
An important selection parameter is the overall dimensions of the canvas. Depending on the features of use and the parameters of the carpet for a warm floor, you can choose a portable mat of any shape and size
It is worth paying attention to the power of the model, on which the intensity of heating the room will ultimately depend. But at the same time, installing too powerful a heated floor under a rug in a private house or apartment also does not make sense, since the coverage area is small
Properties and technical parameters
The heating element of a mobile heated floor is a cable that is built into the substrate. Such a floor can be connected to a regular electrical network; the amount of electricity consumed will be directly proportional to the size of the floor itself. The outside surface of the floor is covered with a special composite thermoplastic to protect against mechanical damage.
Forks are produced in standard sizes. The heater can be used in stand-alone mode by connecting a special thermostat to the floor. The latter maintains the required temperature in the room, periodically heating up and switching off for a while, thanks to special sensors. This carpet heater weighs no more than 3 kg.
When packed, it takes up minimal space, which also makes it easier to carry and transport. In order to maintain the required temperature in the room, only an area 2/3 smaller than the total floor area is required. This floor can be heated to a maximum temperature of 30 °C in an hour.
It is worth noting that such a floor does not dry out the indoor air, unlike standard radiators and heaters. The operating temperature of the floor is about 20 °C, which eliminates the possibility of burns upon touching.
Nevertheless, experts recommend laying a mobile floor only under the floor covering and observing the necessary safety precautions.
Installation of infrared heated floors
Such structures can be installed independently. To do this, just study the step-by-step instructions supplied by the manufacturer. But first you need to purchase the necessary components, such as:
- thermostat sensor;
- additional set of wires;
- a set of infrared film, which is sold in rolls;
- To avoid possible heat loss, you will need material for a thermal insulation gasket.
Step-by-step installation scheme (including on a wooden floor):
- First, the surface to be used is prepared. Old material (if necessary), construction and other debris is removed. Severe irregularities are eliminated. It is necessary to level the surface if the level of difference exceeds several millimeters per meter of surface.
- It is recommended to use a thermal insulation layer to minimize heat losses. A non-conductive material should be used (this will improve overall safety). Construction tape is used to fasten sheets of material.
- Warm flooring is installed under the carpet. The entire surface of the room is covered with mats, with the exception of areas where furniture will be located.
- Connecting the device. To do this, connect a thermostat, which is recommended to be mounted on the wall, half a meter from the floor. Wiring is laid, the connection to which is made in parallel. This entire layer is well insulated using sealants.
- The thermostat can be installed in several ways (external and internal). You can groove the area from the floor surface to the place where it is to be installed. If the renovation of the room has already been completed, you can use a plastic box in which all the wires are conveniently placed. The sensor is mounted under the film in a small recess. After connection, the device undergoes a performance check. A working system should heat the surface in five minutes. Grounding plays an important role, so all ends of the film should be taped with special tape, which is then attached to the wire.
- Installation of the insulating layer. When using carpet, a top layer of insulation is mandatory. For this, plywood is used, which can protect infrared mats from any mechanical damage, and the carpet from overheating.
- Carpet installation. Before this, the material is rolled out throughout the room and left completely undisturbed for the day. During this time, the material will straighten on its own. Adhesive tape is used for fixation. You can only walk around the room the next day.
Scope of use and principles of operation
Principle of operation
Heated floors work due to the fact that they consume (very economically) electricity from a regular network. It works by producing warm air, which, as you know, is lighter than cold air and always tends to rise. Thanks to such constant cycles, warm and cold air constantly circulates in the room. Thanks to this feature, the air does not dry out.
The heater located in the floor sheet is absolutely safe and meets all fire safety requirements, so it is simply impossible for a person to get burned . A mobile heated floor is ideal for heating a small room.
Application area
As practice shows, mobile heated floors are used to create a more comfortable atmosphere in residential premises. It is allowed to use film flooring in rooms where there are no standard heating radiators (for example, a loggia or balcony).
Thanks to its mobility, the floor can warm the room during the months when the heating is turned off. This floor serves as an excellent alternative to heating radiators in various domestic premises where the latter are not available. Warm floors are used everywhere, thanks to it they maintain the desired temperature in hospitals, hotels, and even heat outdoor facilities.
Popular models and their manufacturers
Teplolux EXPRESS
The company is constantly working to improve mobile heated floor models. She presents customers with samples that can be used not only in residential areas, but also on loggias or balconies. The heating system is also used as local heating.
Express is a model that works on the principle of a heating mat. A hermetic material, similar in its properties to rubber, is placed on top of it. He will need to lay a cable of 2.5 meters. On top is a decorative material – artificial felt. It is practical and does not require special care.
Benefits of coverage:
- The maximum temperature of the mat is 40 degrees, and the top decorative covering is 30.
- Can be mounted on any surface: linoleum, tile, parquet or laminate
- Fully complies with all safety standards and regulations.
- Does not burn from contact with open flame.
Sinplain
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This model of portable flooring is very popular among consumers. Its thickness is only 0.6 ml. Today you can find standard sizes of rugs in stores, but the manufacturer is flexible and can make them according to an individual sample. Sinplain is recommended to be combined with laminate and carpet.
The manufacturer claims that good heating can be achieved if the rug covers only one third of the room.
Main advantages of the model:
- The mobile heated floor continues to function even if one of its elements fails.
- There is a special thermostat to maintain the temperature.
- Can be used to heat a loggia or balcony.
Trio
The manufacturer of this type of mobile floor is located in Ukraine. He offers a small-sized product - 0.6 by 1.8 meters. This heating option is advisable to use only for spot heating. For example, there is an area in a room in which a person most often works.
Among the advantages, low power consumption and low cost should be noted.
Good warmth
A mobile mat that operates with a power consumption of 200 watts. Its size is fixed at 50 by 85 cm. The heater is classified as an infrared type, so it consumes a small amount of electricity. The client can choose a design that fully matches his individual preferences. The heater can be turned on immediately, because it does not require additional preparation or installation.
Advantages of the “Good Warmth” mobile floor:
- Consumption of a small amount of electricity.
- Complete safety of operation.
- Use can continue even in damp conditions.
- The client can choose the size and color that suits him best.
- Does not take up much space during transportation.
- Has excellent aesthetic characteristics.
- It is used not only for heating living spaces, but also for drying shoes and storing fruits and vegetables.
- Does not dry out the air in the room.
- Will last for a long period of time.
- Easy to install.
- Reasonable price.
However, this model has a number of disadvantages:
- Short range.
- Low power.
- No forced convection.
Technology
This mobile floor works on the basis of carbon fiber, which is also known as carbon fiber. Thanks to this, it is possible to achieve almost instant heating of the room. At the same time, soft heat is produced, which allows you to preserve all the soft properties of the air.
The energy that comes to the canvas from it will subsequently be transferred to objects. Thanks to this, it is possible to warm up the human body more effectively. The electromagnetic field has no contraindications. The heating sheet itself contains a small amount of metal.
Advantage of the model:
- A high-quality heating of the room is created, similar to that which the earth receives from sunlight.
- The heater allows you to warm up the walls and floor. They then release the accumulated heat to the air.
- IR heating is unique, because it is carried out even if all the windows in the room are open. The floor and walls will continue to release accumulated energy into the space.
Further care
It is not advisable to use mobile heated floors in rooms with high humidity. Such moments are allowed, but they are highly undesirable.
The good thing about a mobile heated floor is that it can be removed at any time and not used, however, for long-term use, the following instructions must be observed:
- the surface of the concrete floor should be flat , if possible with a flat cement-concrete screed, this aspect will allow the floor to warm up more evenly and create the most comfortable conditions;
- It is not recommended to place heavy furniture on top of such a floor , also due to uneven heating of the canvas in the future and possible breakage;
- The thermostat, if present, must be located in an open space to prevent overheating of the device.
↑ Film heated floor under carpet
Infrared heated floors will help create comfortable living conditions indoors. Compared to its main competitor – the electric cable thermomat, it has a number of advantages:
It is an excellent solution when installing heating in rooms with low ceilings. The effective height loss due to the use of thermal film with thermal insulation is in most cases no more than 0.5 cm. This is the only option in cases where it is necessary to install a heated floor system under an already completed floor covering. Infrared film flooring allows you to avoid interfering with the structure of the previously created floor cake. To install a film heated floor under the carpet, you only need to carry out a small cosmetic repair, during which the thermal film will need to be laid on the old screed. Installation of heated floors takes place in a very short time. In fact, this work can be done in 1-2 hours in one room
And what is very important, the floor can be fully used immediately after installation. Particularly valuable is the possibility of using heating film under the carpet in cases where only certain areas of the room need to be insulated. Since this heating method is environmentally friendly, it is especially recommended for use in a children's room.
Which thermal film is better to choose for carpet? It is recommended to use PET film, which is made from a material acceptable for use in electronics and electrical engineering.
Externally, this film is translucent, with a milky white tint. It costs more than the usual transparent one, but has a number of important advantages:
- high insulation characteristics;
- protection from exposure to electromagnetic radiation;
- fire resistance;
- breakdown voltage is more than 100 kV.
Criteria for choosing a mobile floor
An electric carpet is a universal thing. His choice is extremely simple. Today, stores offer electric and film versions. Experts advise choosing the second one. The IR carpet is not cheap, but it is completely safe to use.
The power of the unit plays an important role. The room temperature directly depends on this parameter. Warm floors can be stationary or portable. However, in any case, they cannot replace a central heating system. The mobile option is most often used to create the most comfortable indoor conditions. It is not recommended to buy overly powerful devices. For high-quality heating of a small area, a surface temperature of 30 degrees will be sufficient.
You should also pay attention to the manufacturer's company. For example, the Trio device should be purchased only if you need to warm up a small area of the room. Sinplen is able to work efficiently over a larger area. This option can even be used instead of the main heating system. Its power is quite enough for this process. This function may be required in autumn or spring. Central heating does not operate at full capacity, or may be absent altogether.
Teplolux - mobile floors, which are presented in a wide range. The choice of one of them directly depends on the desired power and plans for further use. However, it is recommended to use the coating only in one room. Then comfortable conditions will be guaranteed.
Electric floors are guaranteed to please all parents. This covering will be an ideal play area. Moms and dads will not worry about the health of their babies even in the coldest winter.
A warm floor or rug will perfectly complement the office. Thanks to him, a person will be able to improve his performance and make it better. The carpet is mobile, so if necessary, it can be easily moved to another room.
Each person has his own individual requirements regarding the performance characteristics of a heated floor. It is imperative to pay attention to them when choosing a coating. It is necessary to know in advance the basic criteria for selecting products in this group.
It is important to pay attention to analyzing the capabilities of the heating system and the needs of a particular room. Mobile floors are characterized by economical consumption and ease of operation. Even a small child can easily select a specific function. Thanks to warm floors, even the harshest winter will not be noticeable in your apartment or house.
