Imagine walking around your home in the middle of winter, only to be met with cold floors. It’s an uncomfortable experience that can make indoor living far less enjoyable. To avoid this, installing an underfloor heating system is highly recommended, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout the colder months.
Underfloor heating systems come in two main types: electric underfloor heating and hydronic underfloor heating. But what exactly are these systems, and how can you optimise their performance? In this article, we’ll explain both heating options and explore tips to maximise their efficiency.
Do You Need a Professional for Underfloor Heating Installation?
Setting up an underfloor heating system isn’t a DIY job, it’s best handled by heating professionals. These experts are skilled in installing underfloor heating systems, making sure they work perfectly.
For hydronic underfloor heating, they focus on configuring the pipework and setting up the system layout. For electric underfloor heating, they install and connect the heating mats or cables, ensuring the wiring and thermostats are safely integrated with your home’s electrical system.
With their experience, your heating system will provide long-lasting comfort in your home.
What Are the Differences Between the Two Systems?
When deciding between electric underfloor heating and hydronic underfloor heating, it’s important to understand their differences. Each system uses a distinct method for heating and comes with its own set of benefits.
Hydronic Underfloor Heating
This system circulates warm water through a closed loop of pipes embedded in the floor, radiating heat evenly. The warmth gradually rises, creating a comfortable indoor temperature without the need for visible radiators or vents. Here’s an overview of hydronic underfloor heating.
- Covers the entire house, making it suitable for both small and large homes.
- Some systems provide both heating and cooling capabilities.
- It has a slower heat-up and cool-down time.
- Despite the higher upfront installation costs, the system’s long-term running expenses are much more economical.
Electric Underfloor Heating
Electric underfloor heating uses heating cables or mats embedded in the floor to generate heat. When powered on, the cables or mats warm up, radiating heat upwards and distributing warmth across the floor surface. Below is what you need to know about electric underfloor heating:
- Ideal for smaller areas, such as bathrooms or kitchens.
- Provides fast warmth and comfort.
- Easier to install, with a lower initial cost compared to hydronic systems.
- Running costs are significantly higher than hydronic systems.
Tips for Maintaining Your System
The system won’t continue to perform effectively over time if homeowners neglect regular maintenance. Here are some maintenance tips to keep the heating systems in top shape:
- System Inspection
To get the most out of your heating system, periodically check its condition and address minor issues before they escalate. For hydronic systems, watch for signs of pipe damage, leaks, or corrosion, as even small problems can lead to heat loss. For electric systems, inspect the wiring and heating cables for wear and tear, ensuring there are no exposed or damaged wires that could affect performance or safety.
- Thermostat Checks
The thermostat is the brain of your heating system, controlling when it turns on and off and regulating the temperature. If the thermostat is malfunctioning or not calibrated properly, the system won’t perform at its best. Periodically checking and fine-tuning the thermostat ensures optimal performance.
- Maintain the Water Pressure
For hydronic heating systems, maintaining stable water pressure is required. Low water pressure can lead to cold spots on the floor and inefficient heat distribution. Regularly monitoring and adjusting the water pressure ensures even warmth throughout your home.
- Inspect the Insulation
Proper insulation is key to preventing heat loss and reducing heating costs. Without sufficient insulation, heat escapes, forcing the system to work harder. It’s important to check for gaps or damaged areas in the insulation to prevent wasted heat and high utility bills.
- Eliminate Air Blockages
Trapped air inside the pipes of a hydronic heating system can cause blockages that reduce efficiency and hinder water circulation. Bleeding the system to release trapped air restores proper water flow and ensures the system operates at full capacity. To bleed the system, open the air valve at the highest point of the system. This allows the trapped air to escape, allowing water to flow freely.
It’s best to schedule professional maintenance once a year or before the start of winter to ensure your heating system operates at peak performance. A technician will conduct a comprehensive inspection of the system, identify any potential issues before they become expensive repairs, and make necessary adjustments to optimise its efficiency.
Conclusion
A heating system is a valuable asset for homeowners, providing warmth throughout the home. Whether you choose hydronic or electric underfloor heating, both systems offer benefits to different needs. To ensure it continues to perform at its best, regular checks and maintenance are crucial. Rely on a professional for installations and complex maintenance tasks to keep the system in optimal condition.
Also Read: Filtering Comfort: How Furnace Air Filters Impact Your Home’s Heating System
