FAQ – “General”

Q: Where can Pioneer floor heating systems be used?
A: Pioneer floor heating systems are suitable for both domestic and commercial applications. As a matter of fact we have even installed them into the walls of houses where the floor had to be preserved. But never less, our floor heating system can be installed under almost any floor covering including: Ceramics, porcelain, travertine, marble, slate, sandstone, epoxy screeded floors, carpets, wood laminate and natural wood flooring (certain species only). Firstly decide which rooms you want complete comfort in. Then call the Pioneer hot-line on 0861 000 793 and we will assist you in planning your heating system. Remember, you only have one chance to install heaters under tiles or wood flooring – before you lay them! This is either when you are building a new home or renovating your existing home. Don’t miss out on the opportunity. For carpets, anytime is a good time. Whether you’re having new carpets fitted or whether you want is installed under your existing carpets – it’s just that simple.

Q: When do I start?
A: As soon as you start planning your new home or renovation or when it is starts getting cooler and warmth is needed in the near future.

Q: How do I turn my system on?
A: Turn on the thermostat to maximum temperature and leave it on for a period of at least 5 hours. This will boost the system and generate warmth. Do not forget that by this time your floor is extremely cold and insulation of floors in our country is non-existent. After that, set the thermostat to your own comfort requirements.

Q: What type of floor finish can I use these heating systems under?
A: You can use almost any type of floor finish. Be it ceramic tiles, porcelain, marble, travertine, granite, terracotta, sandstone, all natural stones, carpet, wood (certain species only) and wood laminates laid on a cementations floor.

Q: How long will my floor heating system last?
A: All units carry a 10 year manufacturer’s warranty, however, if installed and used correctly the life-span is unlimited. It will easily last as long as your floor covering.

Q: Do I need insulation under my floor?
A: For comfort reasons it is always advisable to have insulation even if you don’t have heating, but tile heating still operates well and economically without it.

Q: What will the running cost of my floor-heating system be?
A: There are too many factors that could influence this answer but for all practical purposes, it is best answered in the form of a working example: In a room of say 4m x 4m = 16 m ², a 1500 watt (1,5kW) heater is required. If the system is correctly applied / installed for the area, it should operate for approximately 8 hours per day (Switching on and off and maintaining the room temperature). The average price of the Kw / hour (Unit on your electricity bill) is around R0.88 cents (depending on the region). Multiply the R0.88 cents by the number of working hours multiplied by the power consumption (kW). 1.5Kw x 8 Hours x R0.88 = R10.00 per day.

Q: Does the floor heating only heat up my floor?
A: Absolutely not! If installed correctly, the Pioneer heating system will not only heat up the floor, but your entire room also.

Q: How does a thermostat work?
A: The thermostat senses the difference in air temperature. Once set to the desired comfort level, it will switch the system on and off automatically to keep up with the preset room temperature to within a 4 degree variance. (That is – it will switch off at 2 degrees above the set temperature and will switch on again at 2 degrees below the set temperature). The change is so small you won’t even notice it.

Q: What does the warranty cover?
A: Our warranty for under tile heating elements covers all manufacturing defects for a period of ten years from the date of purchase. Obviously it does not cover damages caused by negligent workmen or tillers. That is something you will have to take responsibility for as we do monitor the installation with monitor boxes to warn you of any mishaps. If for any reason the heater does stop performing, we are equipped equipment which can detect faults to within a tile or two. It is then just a matter to remove the tile(s) and fix the break.