Underfloor heating (UFH) has become a very popular and modern way to heat homes in recent years. Yet even with so many benefits, it still falls prey to misconceptions that keep it off some homeowners’ radar entirely. Many people think it is too expensive, takes too long to warm up or is suitable only for new builds. Others think it isn’t compatible with certain flooring materials or is too high maintenance.
This article will help dispel some of those common underfloor heating myths, and help give homeowners facts to help them make the best decision for their situation.
Myth 1: “Underfloor Heating Is Too Expensive”
One of the biggest misconceptions about underfloor heating is that it is an expensive luxury, suitable only for top-end homes. It is regularly assumed that both capital and running costs are too high to make underfloor heating a genuine option for the average household.
Although the upfront cost for UFH may be higher than conventional radiators, the energy efficiency of UFH can create savings in the long term. The price for installation will depend on the type of chosen system and where it is going to be installed. Electric UFH tends to be more affordable for smaller areas such as bathrooms, while water-based systems are costlier to buy and install but offer long-term savings. Underfloor heating runs at lower temperatures than radiators, typically around 27°C, while radiators have to run at 60-75°C to draw energy steam, so not only does less power run through the floor, but so does energy, making heating cheaper to low. Smart thermostats let users optimise their heating schedules and avoid wasting energy. And UFH can be used in conjunction with renewable energy technologies like heat pumps for even more savings.
So, while there is an upfront investment, UFH gives you big energy savings over time, thus paying off as a heating system in the long term.
Myth 2: “It Takes Too Long to Heat Up”
Some homeowners are concerned that underfloor heating takes too long to warm up, meaning that it is not as efficient as radiators, which can deliver near-instant heat. However, the time taken for UFH to heat up is dependent on both the type of system installed and also the type of flooring material used.
Electric UFH systems warm up comparatively fast — usually between half an hour and an hour — because they are fitted very close to the floor surface. Water UFH is slower (2-3 hours) to deliver, but holds onto heat for far longer, meaning constant reheating isn’t necessary. Insulation is also key to heat-up times. Well-insulated floors mean heat loss is minimised, and UFH can work more efficiently. Flooring material also impacts how responsive the heat is. Tile and stone, for instance, are good conductors of heat and heat up quickly, whereas wood and carpet take longer to heat up but provide warmth more evenly after warming.
Smart thermostats allow homes to control heating times. UFH can be pre-programmed to heat your areas before they are used, reducing long periods of waiting around. When installing UFH with good insulation and intelligent control settings, the heat is delivered most efficiently and at the appropriate time, making the performance of underfloor heating have a responsiveness comparable to traditional systems.
Myth 3: “It’s Only for New Builds”
UFH is often thought of as desirable only in new-build properties, with little ability to retrofit existing homes because of the amount of work involved. This was the case in the past, however, as today’s UFH systems are developed to be implemented on the current property building with little disruption.
Low-profile UFH systems, from 3mm in depth are designed for installation without raising floor levels significantly and are perfect for renovations. Water-based UFH can often be incorporated into existing central heating systems, while electric UFH needs little structural changes. Anyone thinking about retrofitting UFH also needs to consider flooring height since some systems raise the floor by just a few millimetres.
UFH has been retrofitted into many older homes and has become popular in period property kitchen and bathroom refurbishments. The perception that underfloor heating is only suitable for new builds is old, as modern installation methods make it viable in most homes no matter the age.
Myth 4: “It Can’t Be Used with Carpets or Wooden Floors”
There is a common myth that underfloor heating only works with tile or stone flooring and does not go well with carpets or wooden floors. However, UFH can be used with a range of floors, provided the appropriate materials are selected.
As long as TOG ratings below the carpet total less than 2.5 you can heat well through the carpet with underfloor heating. The right underlay will also allow for heat transfer without over-insulation. For this reason, wooden flooring, and especially engineered wood floors, are the best option for UFH because it will contract and expand less as temperatures are changed. Solid wood may also be used, but it must be installed properly. Laminate flooring is another option compatible with UFH when it meets the manufacturer’s specifications.
Floor coverings such as vinyl and luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) are also good candidates. Another good option is polished concrete, which efficiently retains heat and gives a sleek, modern finish.
The use of UFH allows homeowners to enjoy a wide choice of flooring materials. UFH can also work well with carpets, wood, vinyl and other flooring types as long as the right materials are selected.
Truth vs. Fiction: What Homeowners Really Need to Know
After debunking these myths, it is clear that UFH is a practical, efficient, and cost-effective heating solution for modern homes. While some misconceptions persist, the reality is that UFH is affordable, works efficiently with various flooring types, can be retrofitted, and requires little maintenance.
For homeowners looking for a comfortable, energy-efficient heating system, UFH is a highly beneficial choice. If you are considering upgrading your heating system, consult with a Next Level professional in Edinburgh to explore the best underfloor heating solution for your needs.
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