An underfloor heating system is a great way to heat homes and achieve hot water through a network of robust pipes embedded in the floor.
It transforms the floor into a giant heater as the tubes are fitted and fixed into the floor. While pipes are used in the wet underfloor heating system, cables are used in the electric underfloor heating system.
Though there are two types of underfloor heating systems, the system that suits your home the best depends on the energy source, project type and heating system.
The underfloor heating systems are:
- Suitable and appropriate for a range of properties
- It is energy-efficient
- Adds additional space in your home
- Flexible temperature control
Features of Water Underfloor Heating Systems
- Will evenly distribute heat through a network of pipes across the house.
- Runs water to radiators at a lower temperature.
- Easily operatable
- Suitable for all flooring types
- Floors are dried faster
- Fewer dust mites and allergens transferred
- Lower running cost than electrical and traditional methods
Features of Electric Underfloor Heating Systems
- Floors are heated via a cable connected to the main supply
- Easy to fit and suitable for single or two rooms.
- Placed on a layered floor
- More expensive to run than any other systems
- Cheaper to fit and install
What is the Difference Between Water and Electric Underfloor Heating Systems?
Electric and water underfloor heating systems serve a single purpose: distributing heat throughout the house. However, both have their own advantages and limitations and differences, which are discussed below:
1. Installation Cost
The installation costs of both heating systems are extremely different. Professional labour, be it the services of a plumber or a gas engineer, can cost around £100-£200 hourly.
For a wet underfloor heating system, you may have to pay for a new build property around £120-£135 per meter square, while for others, £130-£190 per meter square.
Whereas, for an electric underfloor heating system, one needs to pay around £45-£80 for new and £55-£90 per meter square for renovated properties.
2. Running Cost
The latter’s running cost is costlier among wet and electric heating systems, resulting in higher and enormous energy bills.
A wet underfloor heating system is far more efficient; it is:
- 40% more efficient when radiators are connected to a heat pump.
- 20 % more efficient when attached to a boiler.
On the other hand, an electric underfloor heating system is double the times costlier than a water heating system.
3. Installation Time
Both systems are easily installed within three to five days; however, these systems are technical and must be installed by a skilled professional.
What Types of Projects are Suited for Floor Heating?
Whether you are going for a home improvement project or a new build, you must consider the type of installation before installing a new heating system.
Electric Underfloor Heating System
- If you renovate your home, the electric heating system will be more suitable because the floor heating will not increase significantly.
- The system is also suitable if you need heating for only one or two rooms.
Wet Underfloor Heating System
- The water underfloor heating is ideal for a new build home which will work as a main heating source for the entire house.
Pros and Cons of Underfloor Heating Systems
Underfloor heating systems are the ideal heating source that distributes heat and warm the rooms more evenly than traditional radiators.
Pros
- There is no better sensation and feeling than stepping onto a heated floor in the morning or after a shower.
- Overnight, you won’t have to worry about your kids bashing into hot radiators.
- It requires little to no maintenance if a professional installs them.
- Heat is evenly distributed even running at a low temperature; hence, low energy bills
- They can increase and add value to the property.
- As hidden, they increase and add extra living space.
Cons
- Creating the right condition under the floors can be extremely expensive.
- The initial cost may be less, but running afterwards can be costlier.
- Underfloor heating systems take longer to fire up compared to traditional radiators.
- It is unsuitable for rooms containing heavy furniture and other items.