Electric Underfloor Heating

What is electric underfloor heating?

Electric floor heating is an energy-efficient way to heat your home, with no need for plumbing or bulky radiators. Floor heaters utilise radiant heat technology to warm a room which requires less energy to operate whilst producing the same level of comfort as a traditional heating system.

Electric heaters are available as either a heating mat, or heating cable-based system that are installed beneath your floor finish and convert electric energy into radiant warmth. Heating mats feature cables attached to a ready-sized mat which can be adhered to the subfloor. These electric cables can be directly installed onto insulation materials or an accompanying membrane. Electric heaters are connected to your mains electricity source and can be used with almost all floor coverings. These systems are perfect for use as either a primary or secondary heat source in home renovation projects. 

What are the benefits of an electric UFH system?

• Electric systems are much more sustainable than traditional heaters. With the move to the electrification of home heating, electric floor heaters help prevent energy wastage and create a more energy-conscious home. 
• Floor heating offers lower running costs than central heating systems, due their quick heat-up times and lower required temperatures.
• Electric systems are great for renovation projects or single-room installations where they can operate as the primary or secondary heat source. 
• Underfloor heating systems allow design freedom - with no need for radiators you will have more wall space and won’t need to make any compromises on style. 
• Electric systems have little-to-no impact on floor heights so you can install a heater without worrying about ceiling heights or door levels. 
• Electric underfloor heating offers rapid installation times, with some systems able to be installed in under a day - making them perfect for quick home refurbishment projects.

What projects are electric systems suitable for?

Electric underfloor heating systems are ideal for refurbishment projects where their low-profile design will not disrupt existing floor or ceiling heights. Electric heaters can be used as primary or secondary heat sources and are especially popular for single-room installations, operating alongside a central heating system in the rest of the house. These systems can be retrofitted with new or existing subfloors and flooring finishes. 

How do I control a floor heating system?

To enhance the energy-efficiency of an electric floor heater, a system-dedicated heating controller is required. Underfloor heating thermostats offer zoned heating control, meaning you can heat specific areas of your home as required. Thermostats allow you to set personal heating schedules and ensure your system is running at its most efficient.

There is a variety of smart controls on the market that allow you to control your electric system from your smartphone. They can provide automatic heat functionality so that your home is always at the right temperature for you. Using a smart thermostat with your underfloor heating system can save you hundreds of pounds on your annual energy bills. 

How do I install electric underfloor heating?

Electric floor heaters offer a hassle-free installation, and each heating system has specific installation methods so it’s important to follow the guidelines step-by-step. All systems should be fitted by a fully qualified installer.

It is also recommended to carry out a heat loss calculation before starting your project if you plan to use the system as a primary heat source. All systems should be installed directly onto a layer of insulation as part of the subfloor to enhance the efficiency of the system and aid in reducing heat-loss.