Underfloor Heating Frequently Asked Questions

Here we answer your common questions related to UFH systems. 

 

IS IT EXPENSIVE TO INSTALL?

No. Generally, underfloor heating solutions are quicker and cheaper to install than most other traditional systems. This does depend on the type of system you choose and your final floor finish but as systems can be completed in one stage, costs can be reduced.

WHICH FLOOR COVERINGS WORK BEST?

Underfloor heating works well with a variety of commonly used floor coverings. Underfloor heating is more commonly installed under tile floors, such as ceramic, stone or terracotta. But while tile floors generally work best, underfloor heating can also be installed under carpet and timber, or vinyl and laminate floor coverings. When installing underfloor heating underneath timber floors, be sure to check that the wood is recommended for installation with underfloor heating. As experienced designers, Thermal Earth will be able to make brand recommendations as well as discuss the various requirements during installation to make sure your flooring will work efficiently with the system being installed. Carpets tend to insulate heat which you will need to be mindful of if choosing to pair it with your underfloor heating system. Carpet can work well though, so long as you choose the correct tog value of both the carpet and underlay. Again, the right choice can be made with our advice and help. Tiles are more commonly used on top of underfloor heating. This is thanks to their rise in popularity for modern interiors and the ability to prevent the feeling of a cold tiled floor under foot is always desirable. Thicker tiles will inevitably take longer to heat up, but once the optimum temperature is reached there is little difference in efficiency between thicker and thinner surfaces. Vinyl and laminate floor coverings can be used as long as they again are recommended for underfloor heating use. Not all vinyls and laminates are compatible so make sure you check before hand. We will be able to discuss your options and make brand recommendations to help you make the best choice.

WHY DOES IT TAKE SO LONG TO REACT TO TEMPERATURE CHANGE?

Underfloor heating systems, once warm, will provide comfortable heat across the whole area it is installed, continuously. However, as it's typically installed below the floor it takes time for the underfloor heating system to heat up and cool down. For changes in temperature (i.e. the end user feels warm) we recommend you adjust the thermostat in increments of no-more than 1°c +/-. This will allow the system to activate and give it 24 hours to balance. When using underfloor heating systems in conjunction with a heat pump and you wish to use the set-back feature, we recommend a set-back temperature of no more than 2°c.

SHOULD IT BE INSTALLED UNDER KITCHEN UNITS?

As the underfloor heating pipework will be installed in the floor for many years and the design layout of the kitchen may change, whether or not to fit underfloor heating under kitchen units is very much a customer decision. If its the case that the pipework gets installed under kitchen units it is advised to install some insulation under the units to prevent the interior of the units overheating.

DOES IT REQUIRE MAINTENANCE?

No. An underfloor heating system does not require any maintenance. As with any heating system, though, occasional operating checks should be carried out on the system as a whole.

CAN IT BE USED WITH RADIATORS ON OTHER FLOORS?

Yes. For example, underfloor heating can be installed on the ground floor and radiators installed on the first floor. It is important this decision is made as early as possible for the designer of the system to incorporate certain components and controls into the system to allow these 2 systems to operate effectively at 2 different temperatures.

IS IT EXPENSIVE TO RUN?

Dependent on the heat source, underfloor heating can be the most economic methods to heat a home. When coupled with a low temperature heat pump system, underfloor heating is highly efficient as it heats your home from the ground up, following the natural convectional flow. The more efficient your heating system is, the greater the potential for reducing your energy bills.

IS IT EASY TO CONTROL?

Yes, underfloor heating is very easy to control. Here at Thermal Earth our range of underfloor heating systems includes a number of different types of thermostats to allow single or multiple zone control. We can provide options to control seperate floors or individual rooms to provide flexibility and efficiency on how you heat your home.

CAN IT BE INSTALLED DIY?

Even for the most confident DIY-er, installing underfloor heating can prove to be a tricky and time consuming task. Although there are aspects of the design and installation process that can be done by the homeowner, there are other components of the job which require the knowledge and understanding of a skilled and qualified professional. Given the fact that once the flooring is laid, it would be difficult to access again if errors were made during installation, it is always the best option to call upon the skills of a professional to ensure the job is done safely and correctly in the first place. Whatever level of involvement you choose to have in the installation of your underfloor heating system, electrical and gas connections must always be carried about by qualified professionals. Using qualified professionals will ensure that in the event of anything going wrong, your home insurance is still valid, whereas if you were to do the work yourself, you would be liable to pay for any damages incurred. In addition to the job being made more easy, safe and more professional, a reputable installer will be able to offer advice throughout the planning phase, much of which can prove invaluable and can safeguard against any errors being made in terms of choice of system, installation methods and much more. When choosing an installer, make sure that you check their qualifications and industry accreditation's. It’s also important to find out what sort of pre service advice and post service support, maintenance and warranties they offer.

Do I need to install additional installation with underfloor heating?

As with any heating system, if the property is poorly insulated it will require more energy to keep it warm. We would always recommend improving insulation if this is possible, as this helps to create a more efficient system that keeps running costs low. When retrofitting underfloor heating, it’s often not necessary to add insulation to a concrete slab as downward heat loss is minimal. If, however, you will be installing UFH over a suspended timber floor with a void beneath it, insulation is absolutely essential. When designing your bespoke UFH system, we take into account your property’s construction, insulation and glazing levels to ensure the system will perform.

Is underfloor heating safe and good for your health?

Underfloor heating is safer and healthier than radiators, as exposed hot surfaces are hidden and dust traps removed. They offer a controlled and comfortable heat source, helping to eliminate draughts and cold spots in your home.



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