Electric underfloor heating is a popular and cost-effective way to heat your home or workspace. It provides an even and comfortable heat distribution throughout the space, without the need for bulky radiators or heaters. If you’re considering electric underfloor heating, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll guide you through the different types of electric underfloor heating, the benefits and drawbacks of each, and how to choose the right system for your needs.

Types of Electric Underfloor Heating

There are two main types: cable and mat systems. Cable systems consist of a heating cable that is installed in a serpentine pattern beneath the floor. Mat systems are made up of a thin, flexible mat with pre-spaced heating cables attached. Let’s take a closer look at each type.

Cable Systems
Cable systems are ideal for rooms with irregular shapes or where pipes and obstacles prevent the installation of a mat system. The heating cables are attached to a mesh or mat and then installed beneath the floor. The cables can be cut to size and placed in a serpentine pattern to fit the shape of the room. However, cable systems can be more difficult and time-consuming to install than mat systems.

Mat Systems
Mat systems are quicker and easier to install than cable systems, as the mat can simply be rolled out and cut to size. They are also more energy-efficient, as the heating cables are spaced evenly, providing more consistent heating throughout the room. Mat systems are ideal for square or rectangular rooms, where the shape of the room is not an issue.

Benefits of Electric Underfloor Heating

There are many benefits, including:

• Energy Efficiency: It is more energy-efficient than traditional heating methods, as it can be zoned and controlled to heat only the rooms that need it. This results in lower energy bills and a more eco-friendly heating solution.
• Comfort: It provides a comfortable and consistent level of heat, with no cold spots or draughts. It can be controlled by a thermostat, allowing you to set the desired temperature and maintain it throughout the day.
• Space Saving: Eliminates the need for radiators or other heating appliances, freeing up valuable wall and floor space. This is especially beneficial for small or compact spaces.
• Health: Provides a more hygienic heating solution, as it doesn’t circulate dust or allergens in the air. It is also silent and doesn’t produce any noise pollution.
• Aesthetics: Is an invisible heating solution, as it is hidden beneath the floor. This provides a cleaner and more streamlined look to your space, without the need for bulky radiators or heaters.

Choosing the Right System

When choosing an electric underfloor heating system, there are a few factors to consider:

• Room Type: Different types of systems are better suited for different types of rooms. Cable systems are ideal for irregularly shaped rooms, while mat systems are better for square or rectangular rooms.
• Insulation: Proper insulation is crucial for the efficiency of your system. Make sure your room is well-insulated before installing your heating system. This will help to prevent heat loss and maintain a consistent temperature.
• Flooring Type: Different flooring types have different heat conductivity. Make sure to choose a system that is compatible with your flooring type. For example, tile or stone floors are ideal for this type of heating, as they have a high thermal mass and retain heat well.
• Thermostat: A good thermostat is essential for controlling the temperature of your electric underfloor heating system. Make sure to choose a programmable thermostat that can be set to different temperatures at different times of the day, and that has sensors to detect when the room is occupied or vacant. This will help to save energy and reduce your heating bills.
• Wattage: The wattage of your electric underfloor heating system will depend on the size of the room and the type of insulation. Make sure to choose a system that has the appropriate wattage for your needs. If you choose a system that is too small, it may not provide enough heat, while a system that is too large will waste energy and increase your heating bills.
• Installation: The installation of your electric underfloor heating system will depend on the type of system you choose and the flooring type. It’s important to hire a professional installer to ensure that the system is installed correctly and safely.

Conclusion

Electric underfloor heating is a great heating solution for any home or workspace. It provides a comfortable, energy-efficient, and space-saving way to heat your space. When choosing an electric underfloor heating system, make sure to consider the room type, insulation, flooring type, thermostat, wattage, and installation. By taking these factors into account, you can choose the right system for your needs and enjoy the many benefits of electric underfloor heating.

To summarise, electric underfloor heating is a heating solution that has many advantages over traditional heating systems. It’s more energy-efficient, provides a comfortable and consistent level of heat, saves space, is more hygienic, and is aesthetically pleasing. There are two main types of electric underfloor heating systems: cable and mat systems, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. When choosing a system, consider the room type, insulation, flooring type, thermostat, wattage, and installation. With the right system in place, you can enjoy the many benefits of electric underfloor heating and create a comfortable and inviting space in your home or workspace.

Thank You For Reading
The Living Heat Team