Choosing between electric and water underfloor heating is a common question for those considering an installation. As leading experts in underfloor heating, we can help you understand the key differences so you can make an informed decision about what’s best for your needs.
Underfloor heating has a long history, dating back to around 5000 BC, when people used heated rocks and stones to warm their spaces. The Ancient Romans and Greeks later advanced this technology with the hypocaust system, which involved raising the floor on pillars and circulating hot air beneath it. Although modern underfloor heating has moved far beyond these ancient methods, it remains a highly effective way to heat your space.
Today, you have two main options for underfloor heating: electric and water-based systems. Electric underfloor heating uses ultra-thin heating wires that generate heat through mains electricity, while water-based systems circulate warm water through connected pipes. Both methods work by radiating heat through the floor covering, warming both the floor and the room above to the temperature set on your thermostat.
Quick and Easy Installation: Electric underfloor heating provides a rapid and straightforward installation compared to other systems. Smaller installations can often be completed in under 30 minutes. Simply lay the electric mat on top of insulation, tile over it, and then have an electrician connect it to your mains electricity. The process is exceptionally easy!
Cost-Effective for Smaller Areas: Electric underfloor heating is particularly economical for smaller spaces. With 1m² mats starting at around £50, it offers an affordable heating solution for many homeowners.
Minimal Disruption for Retrofitting: Retrofitting existing rooms with electric underfloor heating is hassle-free. There’s no need to break up the base floor beneath your existing flooring, making it an ideal choice for renovations.
Low Increase in Floor Height: Unlike water underfloor heating systems that may significantly raise floor height, electric systems only add a minimal increase, sometimes as little as 2mm. This ensures a seamless transition with your existing flooring and adjacent non-heated rooms.
Economical Operation: Water underfloor heating is highly cost-effective over the long term, as it generally consumes less energy compared to electric systems. With gas being cheaper than electricity, this results in lower energy bills and reduced consumption over time.
Cost-Efficient for New Builds and Refurbishments: Water underfloor heating is particularly economical for new constructions and extensive refurbishments. Its installation costs are typically lower for these projects, making it an appealing option for both developers and homeowners.
Compatible with Air Source Heat Pumps: When paired with air source heat pumps, water underfloor heating systems achieve excellent energy efficiency. Utilizing renewable energy from the heat pump reduces reliance on gas to heat the water, lowering your environmental impact.
Ideal for Large Areas and Multi-Room Setups: Water underfloor heating is well-suited for large spaces and multi-room applications. It provides consistent warmth throughout extensive areas, such as large living rooms or open-plan layouts, without the need for additional heating sources like radiators.
Which underfloor heating system suits me best?
Find out the best system for you - electric or water!
Electric systems
Electric underfloor heating offers a flexible and adaptable solution for virtually any room. It's particularly well-suited for smaller spaces like bathrooms and kitchens, due to the typically higher cost of electricity compared to the cost of gas used in water-based systems. However, if you plan to power your system with renewable energy or if electricity costs are not a concern, electric underfloor heating can be an ideal and versatile choice for your project.
Despite the higher energy costs, the ease of installation makes electric underfloor heating a practical option for any room you choose.
Water systems
Water underfloor heating excels in new builds and extensive renovations where the installation process is more involved. While it can be used in any room throughout your home, it's important to consider the potential increase in floor height that may come with this system and whether it fits your room's needs. For rooms requiring a low-profile solution, our specialized LoFlo package is an excellent option.
In some cases, combining water underfloor heating with skirting board heating can be beneficial. For example, using underfloor heating on the ground floor and skirting board heating upstairs can create a seamless and efficient heating solution throughout your home.