Complete Guide to Underfloor Heating 

Underfloor heating as a luxury heating system is a thing of the past. This type of heat distribution system is becoming an increasingly popular choice for keeping homes in the UK toasty at an affordable price. 

If you are considering making the switch to an underfloor heating system or are just weighing up your options, take a read of this guide to get to grips with the benefits and important considerations. 

Types of Underfloor Heating

Underfloor heating comes in two different forms; water-based and electric. A water-based underfloor heating system uses heated water circulating in pipes laid underneath the floor. It can be powered by a gas boiler, a heat pump, or solar thermal panels. It’s generally cheaper to run than electric UFH but is more suited for new builds or extensive renovations due to installation complexity.

Electric underfloor heating systems, on the other hand, use electric cables installed under the floor that heat up directly. It’s easier to install for retrofitting existing homes, particularly in single rooms like bathrooms. However, running costs can be higher compared to water-based systems.

How Much Does Underfloor Heating Cost?

The cost of an underfloor heating system for your house will vary depending on how big your property is and how many rooms you want to lay it in. Generally, you can expect the overall cost of underfloor heating (for materials and installation) to be between £3,000 and £7,000 for an average-sized property. This number could be lower if you are installing underfloor heating in a smaller house or are only installing it in certain rooms. 

Benefits of Underfloor Heating

The switch from traditional modes of house heating, such as radiators, to an underfloor heating system is a big commitment but one that has a host of benefits that homeovers can tap into. 

Energy Efficiency

Underfloor heating can be 25% more efficient than radiators, especially with good insulation, leading to lower energy bills. With energy prices pinching homeowner pockets, making the investment into a more efficient system might be a great long-term solution to energy outgoings.

Even Heat Distribution

With underfloor heating systems usually covering the entirety of the floor in a room, the heat provides consistent warmth which works its way up through the space. The evenly distributed heat then makes for a more comfortable space.

Comfortable Warmth

The radiant heat feels pleasant, like walking on a warm surface. There is nothing worse than having to walk on cold floors in the winter months, but with underfloor heating, this is no longer a necessary evil. 

Space Saving

Underfloor heating can be a great way to make better use of small spaces and free up wall and floor areas for other things like shelves, storage and other furniture – or just to enjoy the extra room.

Aesthetics

For homeowners looking to lean into minimalist home aesthetics, underfloor heating might offer a tidier and more stylish way to warm the space.

Things to Consider Before Investing in Underfloor Heating

• Upfront Cost: Installation can be expensive, especially for water-based systems in existing homes.
  
• Floor Type: Not all floor coverings are suitable for underfloor heating. Check compatibility with wooden floors, carpets, etc.
  
• Building Insulation: Proper insulation is crucial for efficient underfloor heating operation. Drafty homes will lose heat, negating the benefits.
  
• Maintenance: Regular servicing of the system might be required depending on the type.

Other Underfloor Heating Good-To-Knows

If underfloor heating is starting to sound like a good upgrade for your home, there are few last important things to know that will help you finalise your decision and prepare you for the change.

How long does it take underfloor heating to warm up?

The length of time it takes an underfloor heating system to heat up will depend on a variety of factors including the type of system it is and the type of flooring it is underneath. It can take over four hours for an underfloor heating system to warm up 

What temperature should the underfloor heating be set at?

Generally, a temperature of between 35 and 55 degrees celsius is ideal for most underfloor heating systems. However, each system will be different and so it’s worth working out what temperature suits your space and checking which is best for your system. Electric underfloor heating systems heat up faster and reach higher temperatures than water underfloor heating systems, so this is something to be aware of. 

Do underfloor heating systems need bleeding?

Yes, water underfloor heating systems will need bleeding the same as radiators. This is because they can also be subject to trapped pockets of air, which impact the heat transfer through the system. This impaired heat transfer can leave your floor with coal patches and uneven heat distribution so it’s wise to brush up on the maintenance requirements of your chosen system. 

Underfloor heating solutions from Warmaway

If you’re ready to upgrade your home with an underfloor heating system, Warmaway can support you with the provision of leading quality systems and expert installation. Get in touch with our team today to learn more about how we can facilitate a streamlined upgrade.