Underfloor heating is increasingly popular in both residential and commercial properties.
Here, we explore why underfloor heating is now preferred to traditional radiators in homes, offices, retail spaces, restaurants and other commercial spaces.
Energy efficiency: underfloor heating vs radiators
Energy efficiency is an area of concern for both home owners and businesses. Underfloor heating provides energy efficiency benefits when compared to radiators:
- UFH systems operate at lower temperatures (around 35-45°) to produce the same amount of heat as radiators (65°-75° or higher)
- The energy efficiency of lower temperatures results in lower running costs and improved environmental impact
- UFH systems can be paired with renewable energy sources such as solar panels and air and ground source heat pumps. While radiators can work with heat pumps, they would need to be large and maybe upgraded to provide the surface area required to efficiently distribute the heat
- Smart controls can be integrated with UFH systems to optimise heating schedules and temperature settings to further enhance energy efficiencies.
Comfort levels: radiant heat vs convection heat
Underfloor heating emits radiant heat, while radiators emit convection heat.
- Radiant heat is likened to natural heat from the sun; it directly heats surfaces.
- Convection heat is indirect; it warms the air, which then warms the room.
The radiant heat of UFH systems provides enhanced comfort levels by distributing heat evenly across the floor. This eliminates the cold spots and drafts that are synonymous with radiators and reduces the chances of heat loss which creates more comfortable and consistent temperatures. It is also comforting to feel radiant warmth underfoot.
Cost comparison: installation and running costs
While underfloor heating is more expensive to buy and install than radiators, its energy efficiencies result in significant long-term savings.
Water based underfloor heating systems can be 25% more efficient than radiators when operated from a condensing boiler. When connected to a heat pump, this increases to around 40%. These improved efficiencies make water based underfloor heating systems much cheaper to run.
Dry (electric) underfloor heating systems, combined with solar panels, provide a very cost-effective option as the solar panels generate free heating during daylight hours.
Which systems are better for different room types?
A water based underfloor heating system is ideal for large rooms and open plan living due to its even distribution of heat. New builds and other spaces with sufficient insulation benefit from underfloor heating systems. Laying insulation is part of the Clockwork Underfloor Heating 4 step installation process.
Dry underfloor heating systems are often chosen for smaller rooms, and bathrooms and kitchens where quicker response times are preferred. Dry UFH systems are also commonly installed in spaces without plumbing such as conservatories.
Aesthetic and space-saving benefits of underfloor heating
Being out of sight, underfloor heating offers aesthetic and space-saving benefits, compared to radiators.
Radiators are bulky and rather unsightly and can therefore negatively impact the aesthetics of a room. They also take up a lot of wall space. Without having to accommodate radiators, property owners have increased options for the positioning of furniture which creates more space within the room.
Speak to Clockwork Underfloor Heating about swapping your radiators for underfloor heating
To find out how you can benefit from switching to underfloor heating in your home or commercial property, get in touch with Clockwork Underfloor Heating.
Plan, Insulate, Heat and Screed
Our 4 Step Process
1
Planning & design
2
Lay insulation
3
Install underfloor heating
4
Pour liquid floor screed
PROJECT FOCUS
High end Residential, Manchester
We planned and installed an underfloor heating system into a contemporary home in Manchester. Not only that, we finished the installation with a smooth, even and high quality liquid floor screed.
Our team worked with the end user’s architect, ensuring the home benefitted with a visually striking but also inherently comfortable and environmentally conscious heating solution.
The client now enjoys an enhanced living experience, reduced energy bills, and an aesthetically uncompromised living space that flows through the whole house.
See What Our
Customers Say
“From our initial consultations to the flawless installation, Clockwork’s team demonstrated not just technical prowess, but a nuanced understanding of architectural essentials.
Their underfloor heating system effortlessly merged into our designs, preserving every ounce of spatial aesthetics while embedding an unperceivable, yet palpably comforting warmth throughout the residence.
In Clockwork, I found more than a solution provider; I discovered collaborators who understand, respect, and enhance the architectural journey. Their integrative approach, precision, and unyielding commitment to quality have made them my go-to partners for all underfloor heating needs.”
D. Smith
Architect, Cheshire
Why work with us
For your Underfloor Heating Project?
Expertise in underfloor heating: Specialists in underfloor heating installation for residential and commercial needs.
Unique advantages: Providing distinct benefits over traditional heating methods to both homeowners and businesses.
One-stop solution: Offering a comprehensive four-step process (Plan, Insulate, Heat, & Screed) for a streamlined underfloor heating solution.
Collaborative approach: In partnership with our sister company, Clockwork Screed, ensuring a unified solution for insulation, underfloor heating, and screeding.
Simplified project management: Eliminating the complexity of dealing with multiple suppliers, facilitating a smoother and hassle-free project execution for architects, contractors, and homeowners.
