Underfloor heating

Underfloor Heating (UFH)

Underfloor heating is an extremely popular heating method among those who are renovating or building their homes.

It not only provides efficient and effective heating but also adds a luxurious underfoot feeling.

With the right underfloor heating thermostat and well-planned zones, this heating system can be further optimized.

Installation of underfloor heating involves laying a system of pipes or wires beneath the floor to transform the entire floor into a heat emitter.

Unlike radiators, which only heat the air around them,it uses both convection and radiant heat to ensure consistent temperatures throughout the space.

This type of heating warms up the space from the ground up, providing better comfort levels and putting less strain on the boiler compared to traditional radiator systems.

Wet underfloor heating systems feature pipes filled with warm water, often powered by a boiler, while electric underfloor heating is a cheaper and easier installation option but comes with higher running costs.

Though it may cause some disruption, it is still possible to switch from wall radiators to underfloor heating.

The best time to install underfloor heating is during a new build or new extension, but it is a viable option for any home renovation project.

Underfloor heating (UFH) Advantages

Underfloor heating (UFH) offers several advantages over radiators, making it a superior heating option.

With UFH, cold spots across large areas are reduced, and it operates at a lower temperature than radiators, resulting in greater energy efficiency.

UFH is also compatible with various types of flooring and eliminates the need for bulky radiators, freeing up more floor space.

It is also safer for children and provides better indoor air quality.

While radiators may be cheaper to purchase and come in a wide range of sizes and styles, they are less efficient and take up more floor space.

In larger rooms, radiators can produce temperature differences of up to 4°C across the space, making it difficult to achieve even heating.

With UFH, maintaining a comfortable temperature of 20°C is easier, as the ceiling temperature can be lower, at 18°C, while still providing a comfortable 20°C at sofa level. This temperature difference can result in a 10% reduction in heating bills, according to the Energy Saving Trust.

Ultimately, the effectiveness of the heating system depends on the specific property and room, taking into account the heat loss and size of the space.

UFH uses 15% less energy compared to radiators, making it the more efficient heating option.

Are you wondering if underfloor heating is more expensive than radiators?

Well, although it may seem like underfloor heating is more expensive at first, you should consider the long-term benefits.

Underfloor heating systems (UFH) can last for over 50 years, while radiators typically last between 8-12 years before they become inefficient.

Plus, the running costs of underfloor heating are generally lower than radiators.

If you're worried about controlling the temperature, most underfloor heating systems have a digital zone control that determines the temperature of each room or area.

The zone control is usually placed in a spot where you can easily make adjustments. The underfloor heating manifolds and valves that the zone control operates are typically hidden away in places like under the stairs or in a cupboard.

One thing to keep in mind is that electric underfloor heating is around three times more expensive than wet systems due to the higher cost of electricity.

Overall, there's no regular maintenance required for underfloor heating systems. If any issues do arise, it's usually with the heating control systems rather than the system itself.

What type of flooring can you use with underfloor heating?

When it comes to selecting flooring for underfloor heating, many people immediately jump to the conclusion that tiles are the only option. However, there are several other materials that are compatible, including wooden flooring and laminate and carpets.

For the most efficient use of underfloor heating, options like ceramic and porcelain tiles, luxury vinyl tiles, and natural stone flooring are recommended.

Polished concrete floors are also ideal, as they conduct heat well and hold onto it for longer periods than a traditional radiator system.

Get a no-obligation quote for your underfloor heating needs by calling 089 243 1511 or booking online