A huge question that gets thrown around when discussing underfloor heating systems is: “are they really worth the investment?” As these heating systems used to be fancy additions to the homes of the wealthy – some still fear that these heating systems are used in extravagant houses and are therefore – not cost effective for the everyday homeowner. Although this is quite a common misconception – this shouldn’t stop you in considering underfloor heating. It really is a fantastic heating method for your home!
Certain underfloor heating systems are actually a fantastic investment, allowing you to stay cozy during the winter months whilst gaining a return on your investment. This blog will provide you with honest and clear information about the various types of underfloor heating systems that are available as well as letting you know if it’s really worth the investment in choosing one of these systems.
What is an Underfloor Heating System?
If you’ve never heard of an underfloor heating system, you may want to find out more about what underfloor heating is. You’ve likely seen radiator heating before in homes as these are the more traditional and arguably standard heating systems that are installed in homes across the world. You may be interested to know however that underfloor heating is becoming more and more popular in new build homes because of their reduced environmental impact and the fact that they are easier to install.
There are two major types of underfloor heating systems:
- Electric underfloor heating.
- Hydronic (wet) underfloor heating.
Electric underfloor heating is powered by electricity whereas a hydronic or wet underfloor heating system is heated by the warming of water through a pipe system.
Although they may seem to use similar methods of heating, they are very different with there being advantages and disadvantages for these systems.
Electric vs. Wet Underfloor Heating – What’s the Best Option?
Electricity is more expensive per unit therefore you will typically find that electric underfloor heating is more expensive than wet underfloor heating to run. Although installation may seem cheaper, the running costs over time will rack up meaning that this is by far more expensive than wet underfloor heating. You will also need to be careful when placing heavy objects onto electric underfloor heating whereas wet underfloor heating should be encased in screed so the system is protected.
Wet underfloor heating is the better option when having to choose between wet and electric. You will enjoy lower running costs as the water that heats the pipes is heated to a low temperature – even lower than radiators. This means that your wet underfloor heating system is cheaper to run overall when compared to traditional heating methods & much cheaper than running an electric system.
You can also choose what heating source connects to and heats the water in the system, so you can even setup a geothermal heat pump to your wet underfloor heating for clean energy. There are even innovations in integrating solar energy to your underfloor heating system so there are a variety of renewable options available. Being better for the environment and highly effective – we’d highly recommend a wet underfloor heating system over the other types.
So is Underfloor Heating Really Worth It?
If you’re looking for an alternative to the current heating in your home then underfloor heating is a fantastic investment. As your underfloor heating heats the room evenly, you can set up your system to heat up the room and enjoy a lovely cosy evening in. You can opt to have it installed in your bathroom for a wonderfully warm floor when you step out of the bath or shower.
With modern innovations in the way in which underfloor heating is designed and installed – you can afford what used to be a thing of luxury at a reasonable budget. If you’re thinking about replacing your radiators – you won’t suffer from dust allergies and there won’t be any cold draughts in a room that’s being heated by underfloor heating. You are also able to control your underfloor heating with a thermostat – to choose when you want to enjoy the warmth in your favorite chair.
Can I Even Install Underfloor Heating in My Property?
Another great aspect about underfloor heating is that you can install it in many different properties. As we mentioned, designers love installing underfloor heating in new-build properties as they are easy to integrate into the construction process & leave a lot of space in rooms (which aren’t blocked by clunky radiators!) Using liquid floor screed, you are able to lay underfloor heating in older properties as well. Using this building material – you can level
out uneven floor surfaces and replace your current heating system with underfloor heating which is fantastic for those who want to shake up their home.
So there you have it. If you asked ‘is an underfloor heating system worth it?’ the answer would definitely be yes. If you want more even, luxurious heating in your home then we’d highly recommend that you consider installing hydronic underfloor heating. Running costs are low and they are better for the environment – making them great value for money while allowing you & your family to bask in the warmth of your home.
About the AuthorAlexander Fox works for Easyflow Ltd. who are one of the leading providers of underfloor heating and liquid screed packages in the Midlands, UK, having many years of experience in this sector.