The Benefits of Underfloor Heating
Although you might think of underfloor heating as a modern invention, it was actually used as far back as Roman times to keep bath houses warm and cosy. Today, it boasts many advantages for homeowners and because you can install the equipment yourself it’s pretty affordable too.
Read on to explore the many benefits of underfloor heating for you and your home.
Underfloor Heating is Energy Efficient = Lower Bills
Underfloor heating requires less energy to run than traditional radiators, resulting in lower bills. Estimates suggest that it’s at least 25% more efficient, and even more so when paired with a heat pump. Using a digital thermostat ensures that the heating works as efficiently as possible. As it heats your feet first and gets a little cooler towards your head, it makes the warmth more comfortable which means you’re less likely to turn up the temperature! Plus, as it uses less energy it’s kinder to the planet.
Underfloor Heating is Compatible with Most Types of Flooring
You might be concerned that investing in this style of heating limits the type of flooring you can choose. However, most flooring materials can work with underfloor heating, whether you’re interested in laminate, vinyl, or even some types of wood.
So you know all the pros and cons of underfloor heating, it’s important to note that it’s not compatible with solid wood flooring, as the floor may shrink and warp when exposed to fluctuating temperatures. If you want underfloor heating in your home but you love the traditional look of a wood floor, then engineered wood flooring is a great alternative.
Underfloor Heating Gives Better Heat Distribution
As well as giving you the cosiest feet, underfloor heating distributes heat evenly around the room. This means you can avoid hovering around the radiator to get warm and ensures you don’t have any hot spots. Even with the windows open and when installed in a draughty room you’ll feel the warmth, making it ideal for your kitchen or bathroom.
It’s More Hygienic
One of the most surprising benefits of underfloor heating has to be that it’s more hygienic than central heating. That’s because less moisture is created, so the environment isn’t as appealing to dust mites. If you or someone you live with is asthmatic or suffers from allergies, they’ll likely benefit from the reduction of dust particles in the air.
Underfloor Heating Gives More Space than Radiators
Underfloor heating is tucked out of the way, creating more space in your room. With radiators, you often end up designing your space around them, to ensure heat can circulate freely. However, underfloor heating gives you the freedom to bring your vision to life and create the ideal layout while knowing the room will still be warm and inviting.
It’s Easy to Install
Underfloor heating can be surprisingly easy to install.
One option is quick-installation sticky mats that have evenly spaced wires taped to a glass fibre mesh, that can be simple to put down with a bit of DIY know-how.
All underfloor heating systems typically come with step-by-step instructions to walk you through the whole process. Once complete, a qualified electrician should be called on to connect the system to the mains.
It’s worth mentioning that though easy to install, it is of course a disruptive job that will require you to take up the whole floor.
It’s Simple to Operate and Maintain
Underfloor heating requires virtually no maintenance to keep it running smoothly and efficiently. You should have it serviced from time to time, but other than that it should run without any trouble.
You can use a digital thermostat to control the temperature and get the level of warmth you need, making it more efficient and flexible.
It’s Safer
Safety is something we all prioritise, especially in a busy family household. With kids running around, radiators can be a hazard.
Avoiding sharp edges, accidental burns and even the risk of a radiator falling off the wall, there are many advantages to not having central heating in your home. With underfloor heating hidden away, you’ll have nothing to worry about.
It’s a Great Investment
Underfloor heating can be a great selling point for your home and really add value. Not only does it make the house cosier but the idea of lower energy bills is sure to appeal to any house hunter!
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