Care for the planet while maximising space in your home with the installation of eco-friendly underfloor heating. But what precisely is underfloor heating, how does it function and is it expensive to run? Discover the answers to these common queries with our FAQs.
What is underfloor heating?
Underfloor heating (UFH) uses robust tubing integrated within your flooring to heat your home efficiently. It stands as an alternative to traditional radiators, offering both affordability and efficiency.
This heating system operates in two primary forms: electric and warm water. In both types, a network of either heating cables or pipes is laid beneath the floor surface. Activation of the system leads to the warming of these components, resulting in radiant heat that emanates upward from the floor, warming the entire room.
Electric underfloor heating involves the installation of electric heating elements directly beneath the flooring. These elements, powered by electricity, generate heat upon activation. Electric UFH is often utilised in smaller areas or as supplemental heat sources in specific spaces such as bathrooms or kitchens.
Water underfloor heating employs pipes or tubes below the floor surface, circulating warm water to provide heat. This water is heated by a central boiler or heat pump and then distributed through the pipes, subsequently warming the floor and the room above. Water UFH is commonly used for whole-house heating due to its energy-efficient properties and even distribution of warmth.
Is underfloor heating expensive to run?
The running costs of underfloor heating depend on various factors like property size and the type of system installed. Usually, electric underfloor heating systems tend to be more costly to run in comparison to water systems, although this varies based on electricity rates, system size and flooring insulation levels. It's worth noting that electric systems are generally more cost effective in terms of installation and maintenance.
Should you turn underfloor heating off at night?
Keeping your underfloor heating active won't pose any issues; in fact, it is beneficial during the colder months. Maintaining continuous heating fosters quicker efficiency and shorter warm-up periods, reducing the chances of feeling excessively cold for extended periods. Given that underfloor heating systems often take a couple of hours to reach optimal warmth, it's advisable not to shut them off entirely, particularly in freezing conditions. Sustaining a low but constant temperature ensures that your home heats up promptly when needed.
What is the lifespan of underfloor heating?
Underfloor heating systems are renowned for their longevity, often surpassing 50 years, a stark contrast to the average lifespan of radiators, which typically ranges between 8 to 12 years before their efficiency declines. Despite concerns around potential leaks, the lifespan of underfloor heating pipes can in fact extend between 50 and 75 years.
