The UK residents are rapidly inclining towards underfloor heating systems due to the diverse benefits that make them preferable over radiators. UFH systems provide instant and more effective heat from the ground up as well as energy efficiency which makes them better than the radiators that are mounted on the walls or under a window.
People often want to know about the ideal temperature for underfloor heating to achieve optimal conditions. However, as you know the UFH system is installed under the floor, it is more important to learn about the maximum temperature limit for these systems so you don’t exceed the specified limits to avoid damaging your floors. Thus, we’ll give you detailed info about the maximum temperature limit for UFH systems to enable you to operate your UFH systems intelligently.
Ideal Temperature To Set For Underfloor Heating
When it comes to knowing the optimal temperature for UFH systems, the answer is that it entirely depends on your personal preferences because, with a UFH system, you enjoy full authority over the desired warmth.
However, how maximum can you go with an underfloor heating system, varies with each flooring type as most coverings have a maximum heat output limit. So let’s find out the maximum temperature for underfloor heating with respect to different flooring types.
1. Vinyl Flooring & Underfloor Heating Temperature
You can install an electric or wet UFH system that comes with the loose cable system and 100W – 200W mats. However, it is important to note that most vinyl floor coverings should not be heated above 27°C because vinyl is a delicate floor finish that can be damaged or discoloured by higher temperatures.
This restricts the maximum temperature output limit for UFH systems. You would also need to consider the adhesive used for vinyl flooring that can sustain the 27°C heat of the UFH systems; otherwise, the floor edges may begin to curl upwards, become unstuck, or begin to bubble.
2. Tile Floor & Underfloor Heating Temperature
Tile and stone flooring work well with both electric and water-based UFH systems as they can be heated up to 29°C. These flooring types retain heat longer than other flooring types due to their thermal conductivity and hence prove to be efficient flooring options for new builds and renovations.
All the different floor tiles including porcelain, ceramic, slate, and terracotta have terrific heat retention properties and remain warm long after the heating system is turned off, maintaining a cosy temperature for extensive periods.
3. Carpet Flooring & Underfloor Heating Temperature
The maximum temperature for carpeted flooring should not exceed 27°C to prevent overheating and to maintain energy efficiency. Although carpets offer warm sensation naturally, they cannot conduct heat effectively due to the foam support and underlay material. Thus, hessian-backed carpets are suggested for better heat transfer as they are least heat repellent.
You can install underfloor heating under carpets, their thickness can act as insulators and reduce the efficiency of UFH systems. If you want to maximise the performance of your UFH systems then you can go for carpets with 2.5 TOG combined rating or lower, as higher ratings may impact their efficiency.
4. Wooden Floor & Underfloor Heating Temperature
The maximum temperature limit of the UFH system under wooden floor should never exceed 27°C and the entire surface must be heated evenly to avoid excessive drying-out issues, which can cause strains in the wooden floor. It is highly recommended to keep temperature around 20 °C and not lower than 18°C. Additionally, you also need install a vapour barrier beneath the wooden flooring to protect it while the air’s relative humidity should be between 35% & 60%.
The reason is simple. Every wood type is not appropriate due to its tendency to expand and contract with temperature variations, distorting room temperature as a result. You can go for engineered hardwood or laminate flooring to avoid these issues with natural wood.
Maximum Heat-up Time for Underfloor Systems
Water-based underfloor heating systems generally take around 2 to 3 hours to reach maximum heat output as heat requires penetration through the screed that covers the pipes. Electric underfloor heating systems on the other hand, usually acquire maximum heat output within 30 to 60 minutes.
However, wet systems can retain heat for more time even after when it is switched off hence, prove more inexpensive to operate. You can use a smart thermostat and control it remotely via your phone, to accommodate the warming-up time by preheating the system before you come back to home.
Concluding Remarks
The ideal temperature for UFH systems depends entirely upon the floor covering type. The maximum UFH heating temperature for slate, ceramic, stone, terracotta, and porcelain is up to 29°C and for carpets, wood, and vinyl is up to 27°C.
When it comes to vinyl flooring, it is suitable for use with UFH systems, however, you should always check the maximum surface temperature of the floor as specified by the manufacturer. The flooring with a 27°C limit or more is likely suitable. If you want to install a UFH system then contact K M Floor Screed at +44 7882 14955 or +44 7701 306481, or email at kmflowscreed@yahoo.com.