Is Underfloor Heating Efficient?

Water-based underfloor heating systems provide an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly way to heat your home. Warm water circulates through pipes installed beneath the floor, gently warming the entire room. The system’s efficiency stems from its design and components, which enable it to operate effectively at lower water temperatures. The lower the water temperature, the more efficient the system becomes. Our underfloor heating systems typically use water temperatures between 35 and 45 degrees Celsius, depending on the insulation of the space being heated.

Our UFH system stands apart from traditional underfloor heating. Installed directly beneath the floor finish, it delivers faster heat-up times and offers a more controllable and convenient heating solution compared to radiators—all while maintaining the same low running costs.

Water Based Underfloor Heating vs Electric Underfloor Heating 

There are two main types of underfloor heating systems: water-based and electric. Both systems effectively heat the floor, but they operate in very different ways.

Electric underfloor heating systems typically consist of mats or cables installed directly beneath the floor finish or embedded within a 50-100mm screed. These systems are highly controllable, depending on their placement relative to the floor finish. However, they tend to consume significantly more energy compared to water-based systems, making them less cost-effective to run.

Water-based underfloor heating systems, on the other hand, are approximately 60% more energy-efficient than electric systems and operate at lower water temperatures. Our UFH systems can be installed directly beneath the floor finish, offering exceptional controllability and making them an ideal choice for both retrofit and new-build projects.

Panel XPS200 System

Water Based Underfloor Heating Works with any Heat Source 

One of the greatest advantages of a water-based underfloor heating system is its versatility and future-proof design. No matter how you choose to generate heat—whether it’s a gas boiler, hydrogen system, or heat pump—water-based underfloor heating remains the most energy-efficient solution. It consistently uses the least amount of energy, saving you money while delivering unparalleled comfort. This makes it a reliable and sustainable choice for any home, now and in the future.

How Economical is Underfloor Heating?

Your heating costs are influenced by a range of factors, including insulation, windows, the type of heating system, and how it’s used, meaning every situation is unique. However, underfloor heating systems are generally known to be around 25% more cost-effective to run than traditional radiators and up to 60% more efficient than electric floor heating systems. UFH system takes efficiency a step further, saving even more money by eliminating wasted energy during heat-up and cool-down periods, making it a smarter choice compared to traditional underfloor heating systems.

Is Underfloor Heating Eco-friendly? 

Water-based underfloor heating is the most eco-friendly, energy-efficient, and future-proof heating solution available. This is thanks to its unique design and operation. By using water at lower temperatures (35-45 degrees Celsius), the system requires far less energy to heat compared to traditional radiators. It works seamlessly with any heat source—whether it’s a gas, electric, or hydrogen boiler, or a heat pump—making it highly versatile.

If you generate your own electricity, pairing a heat pump with a water-based underfloor heating system is the most efficient way to use it. This combination can be up to 60% more efficient than running an electric floor heating system, making it a smarter, more sustainable choice for your home.

Get a Free Estimate

For a free, no obligation estimate please send us your plans or get in touch.

Request a quote