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If you’re considering the switch from central heating to underfloor heating, or you’re new to the concept and you have questions that need answering, don’t worry we are here to help with this blog that is packed with a wealth of expert knowledge that will help you decide if underfloor heating really is the holy grail of heating systems. So, let's get started by answering some of the most popular queries. . .
Underfloor Heating vs Central Heating - what's the difference?
Both systems can be used exclusively as the main heat source, however, when it comes to running and installation, this is where the systems differ. Underfloor heating is available in two forms via electricity or water with either electric cables or water pipes to produce the heat. Whereas, central heating is most commonly fueled by a gas boiler to heat up water pipes around your home that are connected to radiators. Other forms of central heating include warm air systems and storage heaters.
Is underfloor heating more efficient?
Over the years underfloor heating has been given a bad rep for being expensive to run, but is this actually true?
Central heating systems use convection heating. This means the radiator heats the air around it first causing it to rise, therefore pushing warmer air into colder parts of the room (areas furthest away from the radiators), this cool air then sinks, circulates and rises back up again as warm air. Only when the heating is turned off does the cool air sink, ready to repeat the process again. This is why you might find yourself huddled around the radiator as the heating comes on then feel more comfortable in the room as the air begins to warm.
Underfloor heating, however, heats the whole floor at the same time resulting in a much evener distribution of heat that remains at a consistent temperature rather than hot and cold spots in the room as with convection heating. With radiators, the only way to heat up the whole room is to turn the heating up but this leads to a build-up of warm air which leads us to open windows and doors letting precious heat (and money) escape. But with underfloor heating, it treats the full surface area as one big radiator meaning it can run at a much lower temperature, therefore, making the most efficient option in terms of comfort and more importantly, cost.
Can I put furniture on top of underfloor heating?
Absolutely! Underfloor heating is designed to sit underneath your flooring so as soon as the floor has been relaid, you’re good to go.
What is the best flooring for underfloor heating?
There are many types of flooring that are suited to underfloor heating depending on the look you wish to achieve, including:
- Stone or Tile - A fantastic thermal conductor, these types of flooring heat up quickly and retain heat well.
- Wooden - Although wooden flooring is compatible we find that engineered wood flooring is better suited given its design features as opposed to a solid wood flooring which may be prone to warping. This doesn’t mean solid wood is out of the question but seek professional advice on how best to lay the underfloor heating for the best results.
Does underfloor heating increase property value?
Underfloor heating is often seen as a luxury item thanks to its hefty installation costs. That said, it’s energy efficiency more than makes up for this with some homeowners reporting savings of around 30% on their heating bills. Plus with no need for radiators, you instantly create a more streamlined appearance in your home with more wall space to decorate, which can only be a good thing when it comes to selling.
Therefore, if you’re looking for ideas to improve your home for a quick sale, I wouldn’t suggest underfloor heating, but if you are looking for an energy-efficient system with long term savings then underfloor heating is for you and a great selling point should you decide to sell up in the future.
How long does underfloor heating last?
Underfloor heating would not be possible without industry-approved pipework which is guaranteed by leading manufacturers up to 50 years although it is possible to continue running in excess of this.
Can you put underfloor heating in an old house?
100%! There are 2 options, wet or dry, both of which would result in an upheaval of the current flooring, but it is 100% achievable in an old house, however, it is worth weighing up the work involved with each.
- A wet system requires underfloor piping encased in concrete that carries warm water which is connected to a central heating system (a compatible boiler is essential) - recommended for new builds and larger spaces.
- An electric system requires an electric wire system or heat mats which are connected to your mains supply - recommended for single rooms and renovation projects providing there is sufficient insulation to retain heat in the room.
What is the best boiler for underfloor heating?
Combi boilers are perfectly acceptable with underfloor heating, you just need to make a few adaptations such as installing a two-port valve, this prevents the boiler from trying to run underfloor heating and existing radiators at the same time, meaning it is less likely to overheat.
However, if you’re in the market for a new boiler then a condensing boiler is deemed most energy efficient. It reduces C02 emissions, recovers the waste heat rather than letting it escape via the flue plus it operates on a more efficient heat exchanger, win-win!
For more information on underfloor heating or installation please don’t hesitate to contact us on 01543 675 211 where we are ready and waiting with expert advice.
