Underfloor Heating

systemsnewbuild - Trade Underfloor

At TUS we understand that underfloorheating (UFH) can seem complicated, particularly if this is the first time you have considered installing it. For that reason we try to make things simple and informative to help you make the right decision over which system or products are right for your project.

We hope the information below helps to explain what underfloor heating is and why it is fast becoming the number one choice for homeowners, installers and developers.

If you have any questions that you cannot find the answers to on these pages then feel free to call us on 01283 850040.

What is underfloor heating?

Quite simply underfloor heating is a system that uses pipes below the floor to circulate warm water producing a heat source capable of heating the air above it to any required temperature.

Underfloor Heating (UFH) is a form of radiant heating meaning that the heat emitted from the floor warms people and other objects in rooms rather than directly heating the air as is the case with radiators (convection heating).

One of the key advantages of radiant heating systems is a much decreased circulation of air inside the room and the corresponding spreading of airborne particles.

It is now widely agreed by architects, developers and homeowners alike that underfloor heating is the system of choice for both domestic and commercial properties and developments.

What is underfloor heating?
Couple sat on heated floor

Efficient, Comfortable and Kind

Underfloor heating offers a number of benefits to homeowners when compared to traditional radiator systems. 

A well designed underfloor heating system can be up to 25% more efficient than a radiator system when used with a gas boiler. This can be increased to as much as 40-50% if paired with a renewable heat source such as a ground or air source heat pump. 

In addition to energy savings, underfloor heating also provides an increased level of comfort and luxury and is therefore a desirable addition to any home.

Homes with underfloor heating are more saleable and research has shown that potential house buyers would favour a home with underfloor heating versus one without. 

Underfloor Heating Benefits

Control
Underfloor Heating

Underfloor heating offers the homeowner the ability to set the temperature in individual rooms or zones independently using programmable room thermostats allowing complete control and comfort.

Energy Saving
Energy Saving

Underfloor heating is popular as an energy efficient heating option as it uses low temperature water at around 35-50°C, compared to a  radiator system using high temperature water at 70-80°C.

Radiators
No More Radiators!

Free up your walls! Underfloor heating allows the homeowner complete freedom when planning or designing the interior layout of a room due to the removal of space-consuming radiators.

Improved Air Quality
Improved Air Quality

As UFH is a form of radiant heating rather than convection heating it means that harmful bacteria and pollen cannot circulate as freely resulting in an improved air quality within your home.

Underfloor Heating Benefits

There are many benefits to be gained from installing underfloor heating instead of radiators. As underfloor heating operates at temperatures of around 35°C-50°C versus a radiator system operating at 70°C-80°C the amount of energy is far less resulting in lower running costs. A correctly designed underfloor heating system system in a fully insulated property can save up to 40% on running costs. Other benefits including greater comfort due to the radiant nature of the heat and the freedom to layout and decorate rooms without the need to consider radiators consuming wall space.

Absolutely. It is quite common to see underfloor heating installed on the ground floor with radiators installed on the first floor. However, with the reduction in cost in recent years and the many benefits of installing underfloor heating it is becoming increasingly popular to install it throughout where possible.

Where homeowners are extending an existing property it is possible to install underfloor heating alongside an existing heating system. For example the existing property may have radiators as the primary heat source. However, underfloor heating can be installed in the new extension and controlled separately using it’s own thermostat so the two systems do not conflict with one another.

Most typical floor coverings are suitable for use with underfloor heating. The best conductors of the heat from the underfloor heating are typically stone and ceramic tiles. Timber and laminate floor coverings are also very popular. It is also possible to use carpet with underfloor heating but it is recommended that the combined tog value for the carpet and underlay does not exceed 2.5. Anything above this may impact on the amount of heat that is emitted.

Yes! Underfloor heating systems use low temperature water rather than traditional heating systems, such as radiators, which use high temperature water. As a result there is less demand from the boiler meaning lower running costs. Typically you can expect to save around 25-30% when installing a well desgned underfloor heating system versus a radiator system.

When paired with a renewable heating source, such as an air source or ground source heat pump, the savings can be further increased. Talk to us for more information about renewable heating options.

It is almost impossible for underfloor heating pipes to leak provided they have been correctly installed and pressure tested by the installer prior to the floor being screeded or covered. Any faults or issues with the pipe will be detected during a pressure test. Once the pipe is embedded into the screed floor it is tested and guaranteed to work for many years. Our pipes come with insurance backed warranties and replacement guarantees for additional peace of mind. 

Yes. There are underfloor heating systems available for almost all applications and property types regardless of age. We advise you to speak to one of our technical sales team members who will offer guidance and advice on the most suitable system for your project.