Angela Skovie

Hello Permies Members,

Has there been a discussion on radiant heating, open system vs. closed system?  I have done some searching here and I haven't found much about that.

Here's the thing:  we are installing radiant heat above an existing slab in a pole barn we are converting to an off-grid home.  We have been working with two DIY radiant heat companies for quotes, and they have both suggested an open system for us.  A basic google search brings up tons of personal opinions on how a closed system is safer.  However, both company's claim that open systems are safe and code-compliant.  The open systems uses less energy, which is a major goal for us; in addition, it's less expensive too.

Many members on permies have said that they love their radiant heat (yay!) and we are completely on board with making it happen one way or the other.  We are just struggling with the choice between open and closed.  If you have radiant heat, which did you choose and why?  Are you happy with the system?  Also, if you used a DIY company, which did you use - were you happy with the choice?

I would really love to hear your experiences!
Thank you!

Thanks, Chip! I appreciate the heads-up about Pine County! We have looked at some properties in that area, and we wish it would work for us, but we are afraid it is too far. We run a business in a western suburb, so we need to be a bit closer to the western side. It is a beautiful area though - I am tempted! Sometimes I see properties and think - we could make that work! - but I think the reality is that a long commute would be too restrictive. At least on a long-term basis. I wouldn't be opposed to looking at something to rent while we look for the ideal property… So if you hear of anything in the area, I would love it if you'd keep us posted.

Thanks Dennis! We will explore the site!

Hello fellow permies!

We are two northern Minnesota natives who have been stuck in the city for too long! We are looking for a small plot of land (0.5 - 5 acres) within one hour of western suburban Twin Cities. Most of the lots we've seen have been part of a development - a small lot stuck next to a lot of other small lots. We'd really like to have a bit more "wild" environment. Does that even exist anymore!? We currently live in a suburb, but an older neighborhood… We'd rather continue living here than move to a newer development. These developments popping up on the edge of the city are not for us!

Interested in off-grid living and alternative building materials/methods, within local building code requirements. We are looking to build a home using local recycled materials (have already started our craigslist hunt for free/cheap salvaged materials!). We both have experience with home building construction.

We would also like to plant a larger garden (we currently plant our entire backyard, but we'd like to go bigger). We would not use any herbicides, pesticides, GMO - and ideally the land we'd find would be fairly free of these too… But we realize that is not always feasible and we are open to other options!

We'd like to raise chickens and goats.

Rent, rent to own, or straight purchase - we are open to any and all arrangements!

Thank you for looking - and please let us know if you have any leads!