Top 5 Benefits of Underfloor Heating for Homeowners

Underfloor heating has revolutionised the heating industry and has become an increasing replacement for radiators in contemporary homes. However, this can raise issues, such as whether underfloor heating raises the flooring, whether it can be connected to a central heating system, and whether you can install it yourself. In this article, we will answer these questions and more as we look at the top benefits of underfloor heating so that you can make the right choice with your home renovations.

Key points:

• Learn about the energy efficiency and cost-saving benefits of underfloor heating.
• Explore the simplicity behind the installation process, which is suitable for new builds and retrofits.
• Understand how underfloor heating offers more space and creative freedom in interior design.
• Discover the compatibility of underfloor heating with various floor coverings.
• Evaluate the potential of underfloor heating to increase your home’s market value.

What is Underfloor Heating?

Underfloor heating (UFH) represents a significant advancement in home comfort technology in the 21st century. Despite being around since the Romans, underfloor heating, like other modern central heating systems, has transformed throughout the centuries to become as sufficient as possible.

Using radiant heat, UFH systems distribute warmth from the floor upwards, creating a consistent and comfortable temperature throughout any space. There are essentially two forms to know about:

• Hydronic (wet) underfloor heating: Water underfloor heating involves circulating warm water through a network of pipes laid beneath the floor. This system heats the floor surface, which in turn radiates warmth evenly throughout the room from the ground up.
• Electric underfloor heating: These systems are easier to install using electric underfloor heating kits, available in heating cable or heated mat forms. When electricity passes through these cables, they generate heat, which radiates upwards, warming the floor and the room evenly and efficiently from the ground up.

The Advantages of Underfloor Heating

Now that you are aware of the two types of underfloor heating, it’s time to understand their economic benefits, not just for your energy bills but also in terms of reducing climate changes compared to other central heating systems and how they have the potential to replace bulky radiators as a whole.

1.    Easy to install

Contrary to common beliefs, installing underfloor heating can be straightforward, whether it’s part of a new construction or a home renovation project.

Modern UFH systems, with the addition of adhesives and self-levellers, are designed for quick installation. They can be rolled out, stuck down, and tiled over directly, significantly reducing installation time.

Water-based (hydronic) systems, while more complex, offer even greater efficiency and are ideal for extensive renovations.

Qualified professionals should install both types of systems to ensure optimal performance.

Many manufacturers provide extensive support networks to help homeowners find experienced installers in their area.

For those eager for a DIY project, this is a great challenge, although it is not without its problems. However, for peace of mind and a greater upfront payment, hiring a professional to install your underfloor heating system will prevent these errors.

2.    Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

Another compelling benefit of underfloor heating is its ability to reduce energy consumption.

Did you know that 10-20% of heat loss throughout the home goes through the floor? This means that you could be paying an excessive amount on your energy bills for heat that you are not even utilising! Even radiators have a common tendency to cause ‘cold spots’ where certain areas of a home feel colder than others, e.g., the middle of the room is way colder than, say, next to the radiator. Fortunately, underfloor heating prevents this issue entirely.

Unlike traditional radiators, which heat air at higher temperatures, UFH systems operate effectively at lower temperatures—typically around 29°C or less, depending on the floor finish. This lower operational temperature translates into reduced energy usage and lower heating bills, making UFH a smart choice for the environmentally conscious homeowner.

Radiant heating minimises the heat lost through the roof and walls, further boosting its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. By maintaining a moderate temperature and using energy more efficiently, underfloor heating can save up to 40% on heating bills compared to conventional systems.

3.    Space and Design Freedom

A third advantage of underfloor heating is that it offers greater design freedom compared to other central heating systems. While you have a choice of whether to add radiators vertically or horizontally in the home, they are bulky and still take up wall space.

Underfloor heating, on the other hand, is hidden beneath the floor, meaning that your guests could enter your house and realise that it is a cosy environment without even seeing how! The secret will truly be hidden beneath their feet.

What’s more, you can add an underfloor heating system to several rooms throughout the home, otherwise known as multi-zone heating; there truly is no limit to these systems.

However, if you still want to keep radiators in your home without the fuss of having to remove them, you can combine underfloor heating and radiators for seamless integration.

4.    Suitable for Various Floor Coverings

Many homeowners may grow concerned about whether underfloor heating will work with their floor type and what the best flooring is for underfloor heating.

This is understandable. For example, if you have just moved into a home with carpet, vinyl, or stone flooring, you want to ensure that the system works so as not to cause cracks, burns, or other unwarranted issues.

This versatility ensures that you do not have to compromise on your interior design preferences to enjoy the comfort and efficiency of underfloor heating. Each room can maintain its unique character while still benefiting from the consistent and gentle warmth that underfloor heating provides.

5.    Ease of Operation and Low Maintenance

Lastly, underfloor heating systems are renowned for their low maintenance needs and ease of use.

Most systems are accompanied by a lifetime warranty, reestablishing their durability and quality. Furthermore, the integration of smart thermostats has revolutionised how these systems operate. With a smart thermostat, you can easily control your heating remotely via your smartphone, whether you are at home or away!

Will Underfloor Heating Reduce Your Energy Bills?

A common concern homeowners have with any heating system is whether it is economical and efficient enough to reduce their energy bills. In this case, underfloor heating indeed ticks all of these boxes. As mentioned, since these systems operate at a lower temperature rate to distribute heat evenly throughout the room to which they are added, this will drastically drop the costs of your heating bills.

Proper insulation will help your home retain heat longer, leading to reduced operational costs over time. This efficiency can significantly lower your energy bills, ultimately providing financial savings in the long run.

In conclusion, underfloor heating has plenty of benefits for the contemporary home. Whilst we could easily add more to this list, being aware of the top five benefits that will likely contribute to your overall decision about whether underfloor heating is right for you seemed appropriate. So, whether you are a skilled DIY expert or a keen homeowner looking for a sufficient way to reduce your heating bills, underfloor heating will provide peace of mind as well as economic sustainability for many years to come.

FAQs

Can underfloor heating increase the value of my home?

Yes, installing underfloor heating can increase your property’s market value. It’s considered a premium upgrade that enhances home comfort and efficiency, making it an attractive feature for potential buyers.

Does underfloor heating require a lot of maintenance?

Underfloor heating systems are generally low maintenance. Water-based systems should be checked periodically by a professional to ensure they are operating efficiently but do not require frequent maintenance.

How does underfloor heating impact indoor air quality?

Underfloor heating improves indoor air quality by reducing the circulation of dust and allergens, which can be more prevalent with traditional forced-air systems. This makes it an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.

Sources

Tapi. (2023) How to reduce heat loss through your floor. [online] Available at: https://www.tapi.co.uk/the-ideas-hub/care-guides/how-to-reduce-heat-loss-through-your-floor [accessed 18/09/24]

This post was written by Gary Jones from Underfloor Heating Trade Supplies.

Gary is an underfloor heating expert who has been writing articles for Underfloor Heating Trade Supplies for over eight years. During this time, he has discovered new and inventive ways to introduce underfloor heating to contemporary homes and offers advice about saving on energy, maintenance, installation, and much more!