I purchased two of these warming mats about a year ago and installed them in January of 2012. It is recommended that a curing period of 1 month be observed for the thin set to dry completely so I did not get to use them much last year as we had a warm spring. As mentioned I bought two mats and did two bathrooms. I felt like I was taking a bit of a risk with no reviews on this product and limited information but they were cheaper than I could find the mat and thermostat anywhere else. The math may have changed by now but these were a bargain and I see the price remains the same now (nov-2012) as when I purchased them. I did do a lot of research before going this route and came to the conclusion that the real value in these kits is in the controller and in this case this is an absolutely great controller/thermostat. It is easy enough to set up and offers all the programmable options I wanted. Aube is a high quality brand even if they are not as well known in the mainstream as some others. I went with the mats because they worked well for my bathrooms but depending on design I would not hesitate to use the cable. The mat was well made and relatively easy to install. This was my 5-6 tile job and it does add a little difficulty to the job but nothing an experienced DIY'er can't handle. The biggest concern is getting the tile with the mat under it to sit at the same height as the tile without mat under it. I used thin set to set mine on top of backer board and just was conscious to use more thin set (different trowel) on the tiles without mat under it and it turned out fine. The other option is to use self leveling compound but that would have added more height to the floor and I wanted perfect transitions to the surrounding floors. I am capable of doing the electrical and did so but if you are not familiar with household wiring, GFCI's etc I would recommend this part be farmed out to someone who can. Just follow the directions locate the temperature sensor correctly and be careful of the wire as you work and you should be fine.
This year I have been using them more and more as we get into the winter months and boy do I love these. They start giving noticeable heat to your feet in 15-30 minutes but should be left on for about an hour to get the full effect. I do not try to use them to warm the room so can't comment on that. With the controller it makes it easy to have the floor all warmed up for a morning shower without having to do a thing.
To summarize:
Great product, relatively simple install, awesome controller, mat works well to aid install, and the end result is simply fantastic. My bathrooms were always a little cool and getting out of the shower onto a warm floor while I shave or whatever is just great. There are a lot of options when it comes to a floor warming system but for my money I think Warming systems Inc had the best value I could find and a great product.
I will be doing 4-5 more bathrooms this winter for family/friends and will be using this product again where a warm floor is wanted.
| Brand | Warming Systems |
|---|---|
| Controller Type | Push Button |
| Special Feature | Easy to Install |
| Color | White |
| Specific Uses For Product | Electric Baseboard Heater |
| Temperature Control Type | Heating |
| Included Components | Installation Monitor, Programmable Thermostat, Electric Floor Heating Mat, 2 Floor Sensors |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Voltage | 120 Volts (AC) |
| Shape | Rectangular |
| Display Type | Digital |
| Control Method | Remote |
| Connectivity Protocol | Wi-Fi |
| Mounting Type | Under Floor |
| Style | Modern |
| Backlight | Yes |
| Wattage | 180 watts |
| Manufacturer | Warming Systems Inc. |
| Part Number | CECOMINOD080897 |
| Item Weight | 2.79 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 108 x 20 x 0.13 inches |
| Item model number | 15-mat120-kt |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Size | 15 Sq Ft |
| Amperage Capacity | 1.5 Amps |
| Installation Method | Floor-Mounted |
| Item Package Quantity | 1 |
| Special Features | Easy to Install |
| Batteries Included? | No |
| Batteries Required? | No |
