Why do my STEP Warmfloor elements not heat up before the finished floor is installed?
Based on the self-regulating nature of our heating elements, the surface temperature of an element will not be warmer than the skin on your hand until it is embedded in some thermal mass and the generated heat can accumulate. The true test of heater operation before placement of the finished floor is through current measurements of the individual elements. A more simple test is to place a rug or blanket over the elements until the heat can accumulate and be noticeable to the touch. Please note that the normal skin temperature is 86F and even when generating heat, the elements run cooler than this.
