underfloor heating

Steve Dunne, managing director of Snug Underfloor Heating, talks through the options

The main advantage of choosing underfloor heating over radiators is the type of heat it produces and the fact it is more energy-efficient. It’s a gentler form of heat than radiators – the water temperature needed for underfloor heating is much lower, plus you’re heating a whole surface area so you get a more even spread.

There are two types of underfloor heating – electric, also known as dry – and water, also known as wet underfloor heating. Electric underfloor heating is when electric cables are installed under the floors to heat them up. It is generally used for single rooms, like a bathroom, in areas up to 50sq m because it is limited by the electrical power your home has. A competent DIY-ER can install an electrical underfloor heating system, but I would advise getting an electrician for the final wiring.

Water underfloor heating is usually for larger projects.

A pipe is installed under the floor and warm water is pumped around it to heat the floor. This has to be done by a professional.

You can install any flooring with underfloor heating.

Tiles are easiest to work with as there are no temperature-limiting factors. For wood flooring, you have to limit the temperature to 27 degrees or the wood could crack. Also, as wood is an insulating material, flooring should be no thicker than 22mm or it will prevent enough heat from transferring to the room.

Installation costs for underfloor heating are more expensive than radiators, but the running costs make it more sustainable and it is also likely to add value to your home. Plus, it’s the ideal heating method to work with the increasingly popular air or ground source heat pumps.

The running costs of water underfloor heating work out about 20 per cent less compared to a standard radiator system. This is because the boiler has to work a lot less since the water only has to be heated to a temperature of 40 to 50 degrees instead of 60 to 65 degrees for a radiator.

Electric underfloor heating has higher running costs than standard radiators purely because electric costs more than gas. But the running costs of electric aren’t massive - the rule of thumb is 1p per square metre per hour. As long as it is controlled properly, it’s not an expensive system to run.

Think about underfloor heating at the start of the project, particularly if it’s a new build or an extension. The most costeffective way is to put it in the concrete screed so it is important to bear this in mind before foundations are even laid.

Find out more about Snug Underfloor Heating at first-traceheating.co.uk