This tool is a reality check for off-grid builders. It visualizes the massive power difference between Electric Mats (which can drain a $5,000 battery bank in 3 hours) and Hydronic Systems (which use propane for heat and sip tiny amounts of electricity for the pump). It includes a “Battery Drain Simulator” to show exactly how fast your lights will go out if you try to run electric floor heat on solar.
Radiant Floor Power Analyzer
Electric vs. Hydronic: Can your batteries survive?
Off-Grid Reality Check
Electric floor mats are “Resistive Loads.” They turn electricity directly into heat, which is extremely inefficient for batteries. A small 50 sq ft mat pulls ~600 Watts. That’s like running 60 LED bulbs continuously. It will kill a standard solar battery bank before morning.
Hydronic systems use a propane or diesel boiler to create the heat. The only electricity used is for the circulation pump, which draws a tiny 15-30 Watts. This is easily sustainable on even a modest solar setup.