Hydroflow Logo
Radiant Heating Systems

Radiant Heating
Systems

Experience the ultimate in home comfort. We design and install efficient radiant heating systems for new construction, remodels, and Eichler homes throughout San Francisco and Marin County.

What Is Radiant Heating?

Radiant systems circulate warm water through tubing in your floors, turning the entire surface into a quiet, even, and efficient heat source.

How It Works

Unlike forced air that blows dust and hot air through vents, radiant heating warms your home from the ground up. This method heats objects in the room, providing a more consistent and comfortable warmth.

Each room or "zone" has its own thermostat, allowing you to control the temperature precisely where you need it.

Why It's Better Than Forced Air

  • Even heat from floor to ceiling - no cold spots
  • Quiet - no fans or blowers
  • No dust or allergens blowing around - better for allergies and respiratory issues
  • More efficient - uses lower water temperatures than baseboard or radiators

Types of Radiant Heating We Install

We offer a range of installation methods to suit any project, from new construction to historic retrofits.

Underfloor (in Concrete)

For new construction or ADUs, we embed tubing directly into the concrete slab before it's poured. The concrete slab becomes a thermal mass that radiates heat evenly.

Highly efficient and ideal for new builds.

Underfloor (Staple-Up)

If we can access the floor from below (e.g., above a garage), we can staple tubing directly to the underside of the subfloor. Heat conducts up through your existing flooring.

Perfect for retrofits where floors are already in place.

Underfloor with Heat Transfer Plates

For maximum efficiency, we install aluminum heat transfer plates beneath the subfloor. These plates distribute heat more evenly and improve system responsiveness.

Costs more but performs better. Best for areas with high heating demands.

Above-Floor Systems

We use a low-profile interlocking panel system that installs on top of your subfloor. The tubing snaps into the panels, and your finished floor goes over it.

Great for remodels where accessing the floor from below isn't an option.

Wall Radiators

Modern panel radiators mount on your wall and circulate hot water. This is an excellent retrofit option as it doesn't require opening up floors or ceilings.

Clean, modern look. No demolition required.

When Radiant Heating Makes Sense

Perfect For:

  • New construction - design it in from the start
  • ADU construction (super popular in SF)
  • Above-garage additions with exposed floor joists
  • Garage conversions
  • Major remodels where walls/floors are open
  • Eichler homes with existing systems

Less Ideal For:

  • Finished homes with no renovation planned
  • Minor remodels where floors stay closed

While there's a solution for almost any home, installation is most cost-effective during new construction or major remodels when floors and walls are open.

Complete Radiant Heating Services

New Construction

We work with architects and general contractors from the design phase. We do a takeoff from the plans, figure out the most efficient option versus the most cost-efficient option, and design a system that works with your budget.

  • Custom system design
  • Load calculations
  • Zone design
  • Contractor coordination

Remodels

Adding radiant heating during a remodel is perfect because everything's already open. Especially popular for ADUs, garage conversions, and additions.

  • ADU installations
  • Garage conversions
  • Kitchen & bath remodels
  • Whole-house renovations

Service & Repair

We service and repair all radiant heating systems - including those original Eichler systems from the 50s and 60s.

  • Pump & circulator repair
  • Zone valve problems
  • System flushing
  • Pressure testing

Boilers for Radiant Heat

Radiant systems require a boiler to heat the water. We design and install the complete system, ensuring the boiler is perfectly matched to your home's needs.

Combi Boilers

A "combi" boiler handles both radiant heating and domestic hot water in one compact unit, saving space and cost.

Best for: ADUs, smaller homes, space-conscious installations

System Boilers

For larger homes or those with high heating demands, a dedicated system boiler provides more capacity for multiple zones.

Best for: Large homes, multiple zones, high-demand applications

The right boiler is critical. We perform precise load calculations based on your home's size, insulation, and window area to ensure your boiler is sized for efficiency, not just square footage.

Eichler Home Specialists

Eichler homes in Lucas Valley and throughout Marin were some of the first homes in America to have underfloor heating. They were designed in the 50s and 60s with boiler systems on a pier and post foundation that allowed for open floor plans.

These systems are now 60+ years old. Many are failing or have already failed.

Our Process for Eichler Homes:

  • Pressure test existing pipes to check for integrity
  • Identify and repair any pinhole leaks
  • Complete system flush to remove decades of sediment
  • Install modern, high-efficiency boiler (95%+ efficiency)

New high-efficiency boilers are precision machines. Connecting them to a dirty system is a recipe for failure. We ensure your vintage piping is clean and sound before upgrading your equipment.

Why Work With Us

Radiant Heating Specialists

This is our specialty. Over 20 years installing radiant heating throughout the Bay Area. We know what works and what doesn't.

We Work With Your Team

We collaborate with your architect, designer, and general contractor to make it seamless. We're easy to work with and flexible on timing.

Honest About Options

We'll give you the most efficient option and the most cost-efficient option. You decide what works for your budget.

Know Local Homes

From Victorian flats in SF to Eichler homes in Marin, we understand the unique characteristics of Bay Area construction.

Common Radiant Heating Questions

How much does radiant heating cost?

It depends on the type of installation, square footage, and whether it's new construction or retrofit. We provide detailed estimates that break down all costs. Call us for a free consultation specific to your project.

Can radiant heating be added to an existing home?

Yes. If you have access to the underside of your floor (like above a garage), we can install it without tearing up your floors. Wall radiators are another retrofit option that requires minimal demo. During a remodel when things are open, it's even easier.

How long does radiant heating last?

The piping in your floor can last 50+ years (Eichler systems prove this). The boiler typically lasts 15-20 years with proper maintenance. Pumps and controls are easily serviceable.

Is radiant heating more expensive to operate?

No, it's typically more efficient than forced air. Radiant systems operate at lower temperatures and don't lose heat through ductwork. You're also heating the mass of the room, which maintains temperature longer.

Does radiant heating work with air conditioning?

Radiant heating is for heat only. If you want AC, you'll need a separate system (like ductless mini-splits). Many Bay Area homes don't need AC, which is why radiant heating is so popular here.

How long does installation take?

For new construction, we coordinate with your builder's schedule. For retrofits, it depends on the scope - a simple staple-up installation might take a few days, while a full-house remodel integration takes longer. We'll provide a clear timeline during the estimate.

What if there's a leak in the pipes?

Modern PEX piping is extremely reliable and rarely leaks. If there is a leak, we can pressure test to locate it and make repairs. For older systems like Eichlers, we pressure test before installing new boilers to catch any issues early.

Can we control different rooms separately?

Absolutely. That's one of the best features of radiant heating. Each zone has its own thermostat, so you can have your bedroom at 68 and your bathroom at 72. We design the zones based on how you use your home.

Ready for Radiant Comfort?

Whether you are building new, remodeling, or need service for an Eichler home, we have the expertise to do it right.

Serving San Francisco & Marin County • Licensed & Insured • 20+ Years Experience