Underfloor heating is still a relatively novel concept, so most people are surprised to learn that there is more than one type. In fact, you'll need to make a big decision right away: do you want an electric underfloor heating system or a hydronic (water-based) underfloor heating system?
Each option will provide you with that wonderful rising warmth across the whole area that you choose to fit it under. But the two do come with some key differences, so it's best to take your own needs into account. If you need a hand figuring out whether electric or hydronic would best suit your needs, just read this quick and easy list of pros and cons.
The Pros and Cons of Electric Underfloor Heating
Electric systems use resistance cabling, a thermostat, and temperature sensor, and the whole system is connected to your general power supply. You set the required temperature, and a sensor will help heat the floor to the appropriate level.
This is a pretty easy set-up, and that means that installation costs are typically much lower than with a hydronic system. The materials also tend to be a lot cheaper; cabling is less expensive than piping, after all. It also heats up very quickly to provide a blast of heat when you need it most.
That said, electricity is quite expensive. This means that electric underfloor systems shouldn't really be considered as a way to heat your entire home.
The Pros and Cons of Hydronic Underfloor Heating
In a sense, your hydronic underfloor heating system will work just like a very large flat radiator. Heated water is supplied from your boiler or tankless heater; it then flows through plastic tubing, and it is this tubing that will heat the floor.
The most important benefit that comes along with hydronic underfloor heating systems is that they are far less expensive to run, making them an ideal choice if you want to use underfloor heating across the whole house. They also tend to provide greater levels of heat than can be achieved by an electric system.
Of course, they do come with their own drawbacks. The most significant is likely to be cost; hydronic underfloor heating is far more complex than electric, and it employs plenty of expensive components, so both the installation and purchase price will be much higher. However, you should keep in mind that multiple rooms can share some of the same components, so hydronic systems make better financial sense the more widely you use them.
Share