How Much Does it Cost to Repair a Radiant Heating System?

Floor Heating System Repair Costs

Most flooring heating repairs will involve fixing electrical or tube heating elements. Repairs average most homeowners between $1,281 and $1,281. Here's a look at how much you can expect to pay for each:

• Radiant Tubes: $5,000 - $7,000. They are extremely durable but can malfunction over time. If you have a tubing problem, it's likely your pro will have to replace the entire system. Cost-saving repairs are possible on copper tube systems. Pros can solder new sections of piping in place of damaged portions.

• Installing New Electrical Wiring Cost: $550 - $2,200. Wiring can break or deteriorate over time. Fixing this issue will require removing the flooring above the bad wiring and replacing the affected portion.

Both electrical and tube repairs will require removing flooring. Based on the type of material, you may have to replace the affected portion of your flooring. Installing new flooring will cost between $200 and $10,000. Higher installation costs are related to non-copper tubing repairs. These repairs will involve pulling up the entire floor above your system. Electrical system fixes are minimal and have the lowest cost.

Ceiling Heat Repair Costs

You can expect to pay between $150 to $2,900 in ceiling repairs costs. Smaller jobs are normally priced per project while larger projects are charged by the hour.

Radiant heating repair costs can involve fixing the heating system itself or part of the device. This can be complex if you are using radiant ceiling heat. Heat can damage your ceiling, so it's important to ensure your tiles can sustain higher temperatures.

Unsafe ceiling tiles will need to be replaced with ones that can absorb radiant heat. You may also need to perform repairs on the heating unit, which may involve removing it from the ceiling. Be sure to hire a pro to check for traces of asbestos and other harmful materials like lead paint before you begin your repairs. Asbestos removal from a ceiling will cost between $1,000 and $2,600.

Problems and Common Repairs

Radiant heat is a great way to improve the comfort of your home, but it can also have some problems. Here's a look at common malfunctions and repairs:

Tube Leak Repair Costs

Tube leaks are an expensive fix at $5,000 to $7,000. This will normally require removing the flooring above the entire system or ceiling below it and replacing all the tubing. A new system will last for several decades.

Repairs are possible with copper systems. This can save considerable amounts of both time and money. Plumbers normally charge between $45 and $150 per hour.

Cracked and Peeling Ceiling Repairs

Radiant heat can dry plaster or ceiling tiles, causing them to crack and peel. Repairs range from $150 to $2,900. Overheating can also damage plumbing running above your ceiling, which can result in expensive plumbing work. Have a pro check your ceiling before installing radiant heat. Having your ceiling re-plastered or drywalled after the installation will prevent damages.

Broken Wires

Broken wires are located below flooring surfaces and are difficult to access to replace, costing most homeowners between $500 and $2,200. You'll first need to remove the flooring or thinset (a concrete-like material that's applied to backerboard or subflooring) covering the wires. It's best to hire a pro to handle this job.

Flooring Heat Absorption

Certain flooring materials will absorb radiant heat, resulting in reduced temperatures. Carpeting is a common absorption culprit. Adding a thinner pad can improve your heat flow, new flooring like wood or tile is the only way to dramatically reduce absorption and improve efficiency. The average cost of installing new flooring is about $1,500 to $4,500.

Ceiling Sagging

The additional weight and heat can cause your ceiling to sag. Fixing this costs an average between $300 and $3,500 and will require removing the damaged portions and installing new drywall or plaster, or a full replacement. If you have a drop ceiling, a ceiling replacement costs around $1 to $2 per square foot. This is considerably less than drywall.

Heated Driveway Costs

Heated driveways work the same way as radiant flooring and are ideal for colder climates. You don't have to pour a new driveway to install a system. Many pros can insert the heating elements below existing asphalt or pavers. Cracking, weathering and shifting are the three primary upkeep issues. You can expect to pay between $1,300 and $7,500 in heated driveway installation costs.

DIY or Hire a Pro

Addressing issues with your ceiling or flooring radiant heat system can be a complex job. It's best to hire an electrician to inspect and address any malfunctions. While DIY repairs are an option, they can result in additional damage to your home, and even cause personal injury.

Fortunately, there are some less risky DIY tricks that can save you money. If you undergo a ceiling replacement, cut costs by painting the new drywall or plaster on your own. Ceiling repair kits are also a simple way to lower your project budget. These kits come with spackle and a metal or plastic patch that is perfect for covering smaller openings. It's best to hire a pro to fix holes that are larger than four or five inches.