The benefits of underfloor heating

Either water or electronic underfloor heating (UFH)

We know that new technologies can be daunting, especially those that may require taking up your flooring but, with all the facts, you can now choose to make the right changes to your home, which could save money and provide greater all-round comfort. So, here we bring you the benefits of investing in either water or electronic underfloor heating (UFH).

Essentially, underfloor heating is not the first choice for standard heating within a home, competing against the commonly favoured radiators. However, underfloor heating is a method that can provide extra space in a small home that is safe, energy efficient, hygienic, versatile and of great value. It can also be used in larger homes, heating spaces in an efficient and reliable way.

Space

Underfloor heating eliminates the irritating space-wasters that are radiators, giving you greater space in bathrooms and other areas that can become cramped. Whilst occasionally flooring may need to be raised for the installation (primarily with water UFH), underfloor heating is flat and spreads out across a room, hiding from view. UFH introduces areas of your home that were once taken over by clunky metal radiators that can now be utilized for more furniture or room for movement. 

Alternatively, you do not have to have underfloor heating in every area of your home as it can be combined with other heating methods. This will allow for space in areas that require it and keep your radiators in other areas. Not only can you have underfloor heating downstairs, but upstairs too. 

Safety

Secondly, underfloor heating is child and animal friendly as it eradicates sharp corners and hot surfaces that could be harmful to babies or pets. There are also no areas where underfloor heating can leak from, preventing water damage. 

Energy efficient

Whilst in recent years, zone-based thermostats and temperature-based radiator valves have been introduced, an underfloor heating system can be adjusted by room, heating only where is necessary. This essentially saves wasted energy and money by prioritising where it's cold.

Hygienic

Underfloor heating is also especially hygienic as the heat radiating from the ground eliminates the worry of dust mites.

Low maintenance costs

Once installed, there are almost no maintenance costs for the system, allowing you to capitalise on the potential 15-30% savings you could make by saving wasted energy.

Quiet

Unlike traditional copper pipes, underfloor heating is quiet and will eradicate all loud gurgling noises that occur with radiators.

Versatile

It is especially versatile as it can go underneath stone, laminate, hardwood, linoleum and carpet below 1.5 tog. You are offered a choice of a more expensive initial cost of water UFH, which could be more cost effective long term, or cheaper electric heating.

Although, some fear that they will have to replace their boiler in order to fit underfloor heating. However, this is not the case. If you are integrating underfloor heating into a current room, your boiler will be compatible. This is not the case for new-builds or extensions. 

DIY

With electric UFH (NOT water), there is the option of installing the system yourself, saving on installation costs and waiting for an engineer. Water underfloor heating however, must be installed by a qualified professional. 

Retains heat

Whilst the build-up of heat from a radiator can vanish when a window is opened or a draft breezes through, underfloor heating retains heat close to the floor.

Adds value

UFH adds to the value of your property, having a positive impact on your Energy Performance Certificate rating, and shows how much you have cared for your property.

Adds comfort

Ultimately, whilst there is an initial cost for underfloor heating, it is an indulgent option of heating that offers a vast amount of comfort to a home. Whilst radiators run to high temperatures to emit as much heat as possible, underfloor heating works by releasing a constantly lower temperature that will not get too hot underneath your feet.