Have you ever heard the Swedish word Golvvärme? The meaning is underfloor heating, and it is essential for ensuring comfort in Swedish homes. It’s no surprise that Swedes often ask, “Var kan man köpa bra golvvärme i Sverige?” (Where can you buy good underfloor heating in Sweden?). Also, another frequent consideration is, “Should I choose Vattenburen golvvärme or Elektrisk golvvärme? A question to compare water-based underfloor heating and electric underfloor heating. Each option has its own benefits, making the choice dependent on factors such as energy efficiency, installation costs, and the specific needs of your home. Understanding these distinctions can help you select the best solution for a warm and comfortable living space.
Comfort is one of the main reasons why underfloor heating has become a necessity in Swedish homes. Warm floors bring happiness to family members, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Additionally, the design of typical underfloor heating, which conceals the heating source, enhances satisfaction by preserving the room’s aesthetic and interior concept. While underfloor heating is popular in many countries, the question remains: what is the best type of underfloor heating for Sweden?
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Criteria for Underfloor Heating in Sweden
Heated floors significantly enhance comfort, making everyone in the room feel happier and more at ease. With various types of underfloor heating available, homeowners in Sweden have plenty of options to choose from, and they don’t need to focus on just one type.
But what is the ideal type of underfloor heating? There isn’t a single definitive answer. Both hydronic underfloor heating (water-based) and electric underfloor heating offer distinct benefits depending on the installation scenario and energy requirements. The type you choose depends on factors like energy efficiency, installation costs, and specific home needs.
Energy consumption is often a key consideration. Efficiency largely depends on the quality of insulation beneath the heating system and the materials used in the flooring. Ultimately, no single factor defines the perfect underfloor heating system—it’s a combination of considerations tailored to each situation, especially in Sweden.
What are the Criteria for the Best Underfloor Heating?
Electrically Heated Floors
Electric underfloor heating is popular due to its simplicity and aesthetic appeal. The electric coil, hidden beneath the floor, provides a neat and efficient heating solution. While this type of heating is easy to install and heats up quickly, it tends to consume more energy compared to hydronic systems. This makes it ideal for small spaces like bathrooms or areas where precise, localized heating is needed. It can also be paired with hydronic systems for a hybrid approach.
Hydronic (Water-Based) Floors
Hydronic systems circulate heated water through pipes installed beneath the floor. They are known for their energy efficiency, particularly in larger spaces or for whole-house heating. This type works well with renewable energy sources like heat pumps or solar panels, making it a sustainable choice. While the installation cost is higher, the long-term energy savings often outweigh the initial investment.
Heater with Good Insulation
Proper insulation is critical to minimizing energy loss. A good rule of thumb is to ensure at least 300 mm of insulation beneath the pipes or coils, particularly in foundation slabs or basements. Without adequate insulation, heat can escape into the ground, reducing the system’s overall efficiency.
Floor Types and Their Effects
The choice of flooring significantly impacts the efficiency of underfloor heating. Materials like PVC and clinker brick are excellent for transmitting heat effectively. On the other hand, parquet floors may increase heat loss to the ground. Selecting the right flooring ensures optimal heat transfer and comfort.
Energy Consumption
To estimate energy consumption, consider how long the system will be used annually. While underfloor heating can reduce overall energy costs by maintaining steady room temperatures, careful planning is necessary. A floor temperature of 22–24°C is typically sufficient to achieve a comfortable room temperature of 20°C. However, for warm feet, slightly higher floor temperatures may be preferred, though this could increase energy use.
Durability and Maintenance
Underfloor heating systems can last an average of 40 years, but repairs may require removing parts of the floor. Both hydronic and electric systems have long lifespans, but proper installation and maintenance are key to avoiding issues like leaks or electrical faults.
What is Typical Underfloor Heating in Sweden?
In Sweden, underfloor heating is often tailored to specific areas of the home. Ceramic floors, which feel cold during winter, are commonly paired with underfloor heating to enhance comfort. On the main floors of homes, hydronic systems with integrated water tubes are frequently used. These systems are efficient for larger spaces and can connect seamlessly with central heating systems.
Bathrooms often utilize electric underfloor heating due to its quick installation and precise heating capabilities. Radiators are still commonly found on upper floors, where they operate at higher temperatures. This setup often requires multiple water loops to maintain efficiency across different heating zones.
Outdoor temperatures in Sweden can range from +5°C to -5°C during transitional seasons like spring and autumn. However, in winter, particularly in northern regions, temperatures can drop far below -5°C. Efficient underfloor heating systems, equipped with room sensors and temperature controls, ensure consistent comfort regardless of the season.
Your Trusted Partner in Underfloor Heating
Now, everyone can experience comfortable heating in their home with energy-efficient solutions. Legom offers a complete range of products designed to meet Sweden’s underfloor heating needs, combining sustainability, durability, and performance.
Additionally, we dont have to worry about the harsh winter in Sweden. Our Heat Pump delivers optimal performance even at temperatures as low as -40°C, making it a perfect solution for maintaining warmth. Legom products go through rigorous processes to ensure long-lasting quality and performance. We proudly support your interior choices with the best heating solutions available. Be a part of our journey toward energy-efficient, cozy homes.
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