Project Highlights

• Stanford University Arboretum Children’s Center in Palo Alto, Calif., needed a clean, economical heating method for their 6,600-square-foot facility.
• The center selected Uponor radiant floor heating because innovative building design and functional efficiency were important to the university community.
• Additionally, because radiant doesn’t use forced-air which circulates dust and other allergens, it provided a cleaner, healthier atmosphere for the children, especially those with indoor allergies.

Background

The floor is typically the play area of choice for most infants, toddlers and preschoolers. But at the Stanford University Arboretum Children's Center, that's just fine with their parents and teachers because the entire building is heated with an Uponor radiant floor heating system.

“Radiant floor heat keeps the kids warm during our cold, damp winters,” says Gail Jack, acting director of the center. “There are no cold drafts, so we can let even the youngest children romp and play on the floor in light clothing. The kids love the freedom, and our teaching staff has more flexibility and less worries.”

In fact, the staff and children in the center were able to enjoy more than just warm, cozy floors.

“Radiant heat allows the center to provide a healthier environment, especially for allergy sufferers, because dust, pollen and other airborne irritants are not circulated,” says Jack. “And floors dry quicker after cleaning up spills and frequent mopping, keeping slips and falls to a minimum.”

Jack says experiencing radiant floor heating has convinced her it’s the best choice for the ultimate in comfort.

“I still notice the building feels comfortable when I walk in on Monday mornings, even after it’s been vacant all weekend,” says Jack. “And I’m reminded again and again of the benefits of radiant floor heating whenever I’m somewhere else and my feet get cold.”

 Related Documents

• Uponor Commercial Systems Brochure