Water vs Electric Underfloor Heating: Which Is Right For Your Home?
Underfloor heating is no longer a luxury, and many households can benefit from this alternative to radiators for heating their homes efficiently.
There are two different types of underfloor heating to choose from. One utilises hot water and integrates with the boiler system, while the other is separate from the central heating system and utilises electricity.
The two different types of underfloor heating each have their pros and cons. Choosing the right one for your house requires understanding your requirements and what each of these two types of systems offers.
Water underfloor heating
In water-based underfloor heating, water that is heated up in the boiler is passed through the underfloor pipe system. It works in much the same way as traditional radiators, pumping the heat from the water into the room.
Water underfloor heating is the traditional type of underfloor heating system and can be quite an intensive process to lay, but the results are consistent heating at a relatively low long-term cost.
Pros of water underfloor heating
- More energy efficient: Heats water to a lower temperature than electric systems, reducing running costs, especially when paired with a boiler system like a condensing boiler or heat pump.
- Lower running costs: Can be cheaper to run in the long term, especially with larger areas.
- Even heat distribution: Heats the entire floor surface for consistent warmth throughout the room.
- Works with most floor coverings: Compatible with various materials like tile, stone, and some wood floorings.
Cons of water underfloor heating
- Higher installation cost: Requires more work to install pipes and a concrete screed, making it pricier upfront.
- Disruptive installation: Existing floors need lifting for installation, causing disruption.
- Slower heat-up time: it takes longer to reach desired temperature than electric systems.
- Potential for leaks: Leaks can be expensive and disruptive to repair, and water damage can lead to further complications.
Electric underfloor heating
In an electric underfloor heating system, a slimline heating wire is placed underneath the flooring. When the system is turned on, these wires heat up and spread heat into the room. This type of underfloor heating is great for a vast array of applications, including under tile and wood flooring.
It is easy to lay, coming in preformed sheets or being laid loose, compared to the more rigid installation of water piping for underfloor heating. Because it uses electricity, electric underfloor heating systems are a separate system from the central heating and aren’t connected to the boiler.
Pros of electric underfloor heating
- Easier and faster installation: Mats or cables are laid directly under the floor, minimising disruption.
- Good for renovations: Ideal for existing floors where lifting isn’t feasible.
- Faster heat-up time: Reaches desired temperature quicker than water systems.
- More precise control: Often has individual thermostats for better room-by-room control.
Cons of electric underfloor heating
- Higher running costs: Electricity can be more expensive than using a boiler system to heat water.
- Limited floor covering options: May not be suitable for all floor types, particularly thick carpets.
Which is right for you?
If you are interested in installing underfloor heating but unsure which is the right type there are some key things to consider. For example, if you are building a new home or you are undertaking renovations that involve major flooring changes, then placing down water underfloor heating will be more convenient and will save energy in the long term.
However, if you are just installing underfloor heating in an existing home and want to reduce the time or scale of disruption than electric underfloor heating will be easier and quicker to install.
It’s always best to consult with a qualified heating professional to assess your specific needs and recommend the best system for your home – which is where Warmaway can help. You can also read our complete guide to underfloor heating to help gauge whether this solution is right for you.
Underfloor heating solutions from Warmaway
At Warmaway, we are well-versed in underfloor heating and can support you with expert advice, quality products and a streamlined installation. We are big advocates for staying warm, saving money and cutting back on emissions; something you can really achieve with the right underfloor heating system.
You can learn more about our underfloor heating offerings or explore our renewable solutions. We also offer service and maintenance solutions, helping you to keep your heating system in the best shape so it can continue to effectively serve you and your family.
