Radiant in-floor heating is popular in Calgary for its quiet operation and even heat, but when it fails, winter comfort disappears fast. Cold temperatures, boiler dependency, and circulation issues make these systems sensitive. Understanding the causes helps homeowners act before repairs become costly.
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How Radiant In-Floor Heating Works in Calgary Homes
Most Calgary homes use hydronic radiant in-floor heating, which circulates hot water through tubing beneath the floor. Heat is produced by a boiler or combi boiler and distributed through zones controlled by thermostats and manifolds. Consistent circulation is critical during winter to prevent freezing and uneven heating.
Many newer homes combine radiant heating with domestic hot water using modern systems installed during combi boiler installation in Calgary, making proper boiler performance essential.
5 Common Reasons Radiant In-Floor Heating Stops Working in Calgary
In-Floor heating, like any other system you have at home, can encounter problems and stop working. Let’s go through some of those reasons.
1. Air Trapped in Radiant Heating Loops
Air pockets prevent hot water from circulating properly, leading to cold floors or uneven heating. This often occurs after system maintenance or pressure drops and is common at the start of Calgary’s heating season.
Typical repair cost: $150–$350 for bleeding and balancing
2. Boiler or Combi Boiler Malfunctions
If the boiler isn’t maintaining pressure, igniting correctly, or producing consistent heat, the radiant system won’t function. Short cycling, ignition failures, and heat exchanger issues are frequent causes during prolonged cold snaps.
Typical repair cost: $250–$900
Boiler replacement (if required): $4,500–$8,500+
3. Faulty Thermostats or Zone Controls
Radiant systems rely on zoning to regulate floor temperatures. Failed thermostats, sensors, or control boards can stop individual zones—or the entire system—from heating.
Typical repair cost: $180–$600
4. Circulation Pump or Manifold Failure
Circulation pumps run continuously in winter and can fail due to wear or mineral buildup from Calgary’s hard water. Manifold valves can also seize, blocking hot water flow to floors.
Typical repair cost:
Pump replacement: $500–$1,200
Manifold repairs: $400–$1,000
5. Frozen or Damaged Radiant Lines
Radiant tubing can freeze in garages, basements, or slab edges if circulation stops. Frozen lines may crack, leading to leaks beneath flooring or concrete slabs.
Typical repair cost: $1,000–$5,000+ depending on access and damage
Warning Signs Your Radiant Floor Heating Is Failing
Before any sort of breakdown, your floor heating system may show signs of slowing down or even breakage.
Cold or Uneven Floor Zones
Certain rooms remain cold while others heat normally, often pointing to air, zoning, or circulation problems.
Boiler Running but Floors Stay Cold
This usually indicates a distribution issue rather than a heat source problem.
Rising Energy Bills Without Added Comfort
The system works harder but delivers less heat, increasing gas consumption.
Is It Safe to Keep Running a Radiant System That Isn’t Heating?
Continuing to run a malfunctioning radiant system can damage circulation pumps, strain the boiler, and increase the risk of frozen lines. If floors remain cold after basic thermostat checks, the system should be shut down and inspected immediately during Calgary winters.
Radiant In-Floor Heating Repair Costs in Calgary
Radiant heating repairs vary depending on access and system complexity. Typical Calgary pricing includes:
- Diagnostic service: $120–$200
- Common mechanical repairs: $250–$1,200
- Major failures or slab repairs: $3,000–$8,500+
Prompt repairs are always more affordable than addressing frozen or leaking systems.
Repair vs Replacement: What Makes Sense in Calgary?
Replacement may be the better option if the system is over 20 years old, experiences frequent boiler failures, or has tubing leaks under finished floors. Modern high-efficiency boilers improve reliability and reduce operating costs in extreme cold.
When to Call a Professional Radiant Heating Technician
Radiant heating combines hydronic, electrical, and boiler components, making DIY repairs risky. Certified technicians can safely diagnose circulation, pressure, and boiler issues while protecting your flooring and home structure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is my boiler running but my radiant floors are cold?
This usually means hot water isn’t circulating properly due to air in the lines, pump failure, or closed zone valves.
Can air in radiant heating lines stop heat completely?
Yes. Air pockets block water flow, preventing heat from reaching the floor loops until the system is properly bled.
How long do radiant floor heating systems last in Calgary?
With proper maintenance, radiant tubing can last 25–40 years, while boilers typically last 15–20 years.
Is radiant floor heating expensive to repair?
Minor issues are affordable, but frozen lines or boiler failures can be costly if not addressed early.
Can frozen radiant heating lines be fixed?
Yes, but repairs may require floor or slab access, making early prevention critical in Calgary winters.
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