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In this article, we'll break down the expenses involved in both electric and water-based installations. We'll explore upfront costs, running costs, and other factors that can affect the overall expense of the procedure.
What is Underfloor Heating?
Underfloor heating is an alternative form of central heating that helps achieve efficient heat distribution across a room. Instead of relying on wall-mounted radiators, the heat rises from underneath your floorboards or carpet, heating all four corners of the room.
Not only does it provide efficient heating, it also frees up wall space and gives your home a real sense of luxury.
There are two types of underfloor heating systems:
1. Electric Underfloor Heating
Often known as a 'dry' system, electric underfloor heating uses electrical resistance elements to generate heat. Electric systems provide incredibly consistent temperatures, with heat being provided very quickly after you've turned the system on.
2. Water-Based Underfloor Heating
Known as a 'wet' system, water based underfloor heating works in a similar manner to a radiator. The system circulates water that has been heated by your heat pump or boiler through pipes underneath your flooring. When paired with an air source heat pump, water-based underfloor heating is incredibly positive for the environment, as well as being a cost-effective heating method.
Underfloor Heating Installation Costs
Electric System
Electric underfloor heating can be simpler to install in a small area, but the quote should include the heating elements, insulation, floor preparation, controls, electrical work, testing and reinstatement of finishes.
Request an itemised quotation based on the measured heated area and proposed floor build-up. Confirm which preparation, insulation, controls, electrical circuits, testing and floor finishes are included.
Labour cost: The cost of the labour involved in an installation will vary depending on your electric underfloor heating installer. The average cost you can expect to pay can fall between £200 and £300 for a small room. This price will increase as the size of the room increases.
Water System
Water-based underfloor heating usually involves pipework, manifolds, controls and connection to the heat source. Floor construction, insulation, screed, zones and retrofit build-up can have a larger effect on price than floor area alone.
Request an itemised quotation based on the measured heated area and proposed floor build-up. Confirm which preparation, insulation, controls, electrical circuits, testing and floor finishes are included.
For a water-based system, compare the pipe layout, manifolds, zoning, insulation, screed or overlay panels, controls, heat-source connection, commissioning and floor reinstatement.
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Underfloor Heating Running Costs
Electric Underfloor Heating Running Costs
Running cost is determined by room heat loss, operating hours, controls, insulation, floor response and the energy tariff. Electric resistance systems convert electricity directly to heat, while a water-based system’s cost depends on the boiler or heat pump supplying it.
A running-cost estimate should multiply the forecast electricity use by the applicable tariff and state the assumed operating pattern. If you have high-quality insulation, you'll likely end up paying less.
Water Underfloor Heating Running Costs
A water-based system paired with an efficient heat source can have lower running costs than direct electric heating, but this is not guaranteed. Compare annual heat demand, heat-source efficiency and current tariffs for the individual property.
A water-based running-cost estimate should use the room heat loss, annual heat demand, heat-source seasonal efficiency and applicable fuel or electricity tariff. This will fluctuate depending on the frequency of your use and how well insulated your home is.
Cost-Affecting Factors
There are multiple factors that can affect the cost of an underfloor heating installation. These include:
Room size: Larger rooms require more materials for an underfloor heating installation. They also require more labour, increasing the overall cost.
Insulation: A properly insulated room will help you lower your system's running costs, as less heat will escape the room. This will mean that you won't have to have the system turned on for quite as long.
Floor type: Certain types of floors conduct heat better than others. Stone, ceramic, and engineered wood are particularly good for heat conduction.
Rising energy prices: Energy prices are constantly going up and down, affecting the running costs of your underfloor heating. This especially affects electric systems if you don't have solar panels to subsidise the cost.
What to compare in underfloor-heating quotations
Room-by-room heat loss and target temperatures
Heated area, pipe or cable spacing and designed heat output
Insulation and complete floor build-up
Manifolds, zones, thermostats and controls
Heat-source or electrical requirements
Floor preparation, finishes, commissioning and warranties
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