subject: Underfloor Heating Systems [print this page] Underfloor Heating Systems Underfloor Heating Systems
In recent years, underfloor heating has become more and more popular in the UK, for both new builds and updating existing properties. As with everything else, there are various things for and against underfloor heating and weather it is the choice for you or not. In this article I will try to set out the advantages and disadvantages of underfloor heating so that you can make a choice weather it is for you or not.
With an underfloor heating system, the heating of the room is from the floor upwards allowing an even distribution of heat, and the floor itself becomes the heat emitter. Unlike normal central heating systems where heat from radiators rises directly to ceiling level leaving the temperature at the floor much lower.
There are two main types of underfloor heating available, Electric and water-filled underfloor heating; they are almost identical apart from the obvious difference being one circulates heated water through a pipe while the other uses electric heating cable.
Electric underfloor heating is a cable underfloor heating system - its main advantages are that it's easy to install and cost effective. The disadvantage of this method of heating is there can be problems with the heating elements with certain items left on the floor that do not allow heat to pass through easily, such as piles of books, bedding, heavy rugs or soft furnature like bean bags. While this is something that can easily be worked around, it certainly puts teenages bedrooms off limits for electric underfloor heating.
Water-filled underfloor heating is growing more popular, some conservatory installers have said they now recommend it as they have found that with the electric underfloor heating you may still need to use further heaters on colder days. The disadvantages of this metod of heating is it can get expensive, especially if it is not new construction.
Another method of underfloor heating is carbon heating film, this is ideally suited for installation directly beneath wood or laminate floors. The film is designed as a heating system and gives an even heat coverage beneath the whole of the floor.
Underfloor heating is a brilliant idea; it is worth taking the time to research into it and find the right product for your home first time. Once installed, it is not practical to pull it all out and start again!
