Single vs multi-zone radiant heat in single level ranch
Would there be any benefit to setting up multiple zones in a single level 2,100 sq ft ranch vs going with a single zone. I will be installing the Amvic Ampex product (r-16 base) and covering with 4″ concrete. I’m considering going with polished concrete vs engineered hardwood (the look is kind of growing on me and I would save on the cost of wood floors; along with anxiety of installing over concrete). I wouldn’t be using 2 of the 3 rooms most of the time (for now), but as my slab is just one continuous heat sink I was wonder people’s thoughts on if it was worth setting up multiple zones or if it would be a waste since it’s just one giant slab (as the heat would eventually radiate outwards anyway)? Also, anyone else go with polished concrete in cold climates? I live in Maine and we don’t see it much for obvious reasons, but now with the radiant floor and passive solar gains from the windows I feel like it’s not a horrible thought.
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Consider three zones. Bedrooms, baths and living area. You generally want to do a room by room heat loss and then run PEX to each room. This is all described in the book Modern Hydronics.
We've got polished concrete in our house in Maine. It's fine. We opted out of heating the floor and instead put the money into a more airtight and better insulated envelope. Given the low water temperatures you get with in floor heat in an efficient house, I don't think you get the toasty toes. Just my opinion, but floor heat gets better as the building envelope gets worse