Those living in four-season countries are very familiar with underfloor heating systems. Many won’t rent a building unless it has a functional system. Underfloor heating systems are essential for surviving extreme temperatures. When installing or replacing a system, it’s important to compare electric and water underfloor heating in terms of cost, installation, and long-term effects.
In principle, both underfloor heating systems work similarly. The main difference is that water heating systems use a network of pipes, while electric systems use cables under the floor. As the system operates, these pipes or cables heat the floor from below, warming the room above.
Choosing the most suitable underfloor heating system for your property depends on your specific needs, such as property type, desired installation cost, and heating preferences. Researching different options, asking neighbors, or consulting with local builders can help you determine which type is best for your area. Consider installation methods, maintenance requirements, efficiency ratings, and cost estimates, both for initial setup and ongoing operation.
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Electric Underfloor Heating Systems
Electric underfloor heating systems use a heating mat placed beneath the floor. This mat houses heating cables within a mesh base, protected by an adhesive layer. Beneath the mat, a layer of cement and sand ensures a flat surface, while an insulation layer directs the heat upward, improving efficiency and minimizing heat loss. The floor covering is then placed on top, creating a neat appearance.
You can operate the heater by connecting the heating cable to the main electrical supply. A well-programmed thermostat allows you to control the heater remotely, enhancing convenience and enabling you to set heating schedules, which can further improve energy efficiency.
Electric underfloor heating systems are often favored for smaller spaces, such as bathrooms or kitchens, due to their relatively quick response time and manageable installation process. You can install an electric underfloor heating system yourself or hire skilled workers. An electrician can handle all electrical tasks, including installing cables, connecting the system to the thermostat, and programming it.
Installing electric floor heating typically takes one to two days. However, the floor must be dry, and the room should remain unused during the process. Additionally, the building’s electricity should be turned off to facilitate connection to the main power supply.
Water-Based Underfloor Heating Systems
Many people opt for underfloor heating systems that use water power. This wet underfloor heating system features a network of flexible polyethylene pipes beneath the floor, secured by plastic clips above the insulation layer. This setup ensures efficient upward heat transfer, enabling a comfortable and even distribution of warmth throughout the room. The pipes are then covered with screed or a mixture of sand and cement to create an even surface, followed by the final floor covering.
Once installation is complete, the manifold connects the pipes to the boiler and heating system. The heat pump circulates warm water through the pipes beneath the floor, while a thermostat with programming controls the heating system.
Using heat pumps in underfloor heating systems can be highly advantageous, especially for larger areas or entire homes. Heat pumps are about 40% more efficient than boiler and radiator systems. Wet underfloor heating requires a temperature of around 45°C to heat a room, compared to radiators, which need temperatures of 70-80°C, resulting in energy savings over time.
A key benefit of water-based systems is their compatibility with various fuel sources. You can connect underfloor heating to eco-friendly fuel-powered systems, such as solar panels or LPG. However, using a heat pump significantly reduces carbon emissions and lowers electricity bills over time, contributing to more sustainable living.
Legom Heat Pump
Choosing a heat pump for your underfloor heating system supports sustainable living by reducing fossil fuel reliance. Legom Smart, a producer of heat pumps, manifolds, and other HVAC components, is honored to provide everything you need for high-efficiency, eco-friendly heating. We create innovative products that are easy to install, quick to set up, and simple to maintain.
Many customers worldwide have found our products to be durable, compatible, and affordable, all while maintaining superior quality. Place your order now with no minimum requirement, and we’ll ship our products as soon as possible.
Additional Insights on System Suitability and Property Types
Both electric and water-based underfloor heating systems provide efficient heating, but their suitability depends largely on the property type and heating needs. Electric systems are well-suited for renovations and areas with limited floor height due to their relatively thin profile and ease of installation. Water-based systems, while initially more complex to install, are ideal for new constructions or large open-plan areas and offer significant energy savings in the long run, making them a sound investment for homeowners aiming for high energy efficiency.
By evaluating the property’s insulation, floor height limitations, and desired energy efficiency, homeowners can better determine which underfloor heating system meets their needs.