In recent years, a lot of progress has been made in terms of technologies. When it comes to modernising our homes and providing them with innovative and more efficient systems than traditional ones, a lot of research and progress has also been made. Today we want to talk to you about underfloor heating, a heating system that has also advanced a lot over the years. We will explain what exactly this system is, the advantages it has, the difference between underfloor heating and radiator heating, even the operation of this floor, the types on the market and their prices.
What is underfloor heating and how does it work?
This air conditioning system is based on transmitting heat through pipes (either pipes or cables) under the floor, improving the overall feeling of comfort. It turns the entire floor of the house or the place where it has been installed into the main source of heat. There are two different types of underfloor heating, which we will explain later: underfloor heating with hot water and electric underfloor heating.
This type of heating can be installed in single-family homes, in blocks of flats, in premises, hospitals, etc.
Advantages and disadvantages
Like everything in life, this system has both advantages and disadvantages, and here we are going to explain which ones are each of them and thus be able to better assess whether or not it is worth it for what you are looking for.
Advantages
- It has a very high performance. This happens thanks to the fact that the circuit that carries the water or heat directly is very narrow, occupying 6 to 10 millimeters.
- It is efficient, since the heat it needs to operate does not require much energy and needs temperatures between 30 and 50 degrees.
- This underfloor heating system is even more efficient if we combine it with other systems such as aerothermal or solar energy. The system consumes 10% to 20% less than a traditional heating system.
- Underfloor heating can be said to be one of the most environmentally friendly systems, as it needs very little energy to work. With geothermal, hydrothermal or solar energy it could already work perfectly.
- It also saves space, as the system is placed under the floor, leaving free spaces where heating appliances would have to be placed in conventional systems.
- Having a floor temperature higher than that of head height, it will create a greater feeling of comfort in the space. The heat is also evenly distributed and leaves no corner uncomfortable.
Inconvenience
- The price of installing underfloor heating is high, more so than that of traditional systems. Although what we are also looking for by spending more on its placement is to save money on electricity bills in the long term.
- It does not adapt well to large changes in outdoor temperature, as it takes a long time for the soil to warm up or cool. If you plan to have it on for long periods of time, it is an advantage, but if not, it is more of an inconvenience.
- To be able to install this system , qualified professionals are needed. Not all operators know how to assemble an underfloor heating, so labour can be more expensive.
Types of underfloor heating
Underfloor heating with hot water
Its operation consists of carrying small pipes under the floor of the house. Hot water circulates through these pipes, thus heating the entire floor. This type of flooring needs a greater investment at the beginning, but in the long term it will be profitable due to the energy savings you will obtain. The maintenance of underfloor heating with hot water will always require qualified professionals for its review and repair.
Electric underfloor heating
The difference between this and underfloor heating with hot water is that what is distributed throughout the room is a cable that transmits heat to the floor and heats it. For it to work in the right way , you will need your home to have a high electrical power. This will also make electricity bills somewhat higher. One of the advantages it has compared to the other type of flooring is that it is cheaper to install.
Prices
For underfloor heating, you cannot set a fixed starting price. We will have to see different points at first and then compare with the prices of the different professionals who will be in charge of its assembly and maintenance. On the one hand, we must know the square meters that the house has, see the insulation it has and the quality of the heating systems of the different rooms. For these checks we will also need a professional who will carry them out judiciously. Not just anyone can assess these initial points.
Differences between underfloor heating and radiator heating
Radiator heating is the conventional system for heating a home. We show you the differences between this system and underfloor heating, the most innovative option.
- With radiator heating we will notice less general comfort in the home, as it has more hot and cold spots than underfloor heating; that is, it does not have continuous heating throughout the space.
- Underfloor heating is not visible to the naked eye. On the other hand, radiators take up space in the room, taking space away from other furniture.
- Radiators are less efficient as they only have the same thermostat for the entire house, while in underfloor heating, each space in the house contains an individual thermostat and much more energy can be saved.
With all the information we have provided you about this innovative system to heat your home or your premises, we hope we have helped you choose a more efficient way to acclimatize your spaces. If you have any questions about this you can contact us directly.
