The Basics of Under floor Heating
In recent years, under floor heating has become rather popular in both Europe and the UK. Whether you are looking at a new build or updating an existing property – under floor heating should definitely be a consideration.
In terms of understanding the basics, there are two versions: Water based and Electric.
Water based underfloor heating uses water heated to a lower temperature than conventional water central heating (typically 50°C rather than 60°C plus), which makes it ideal for use with a high efficiency condensing boilers; the lower operating temperature also makes it more suitable for use with heat pumps or solar water heaters.
Electric effectively works by the system being heated by an electric cable.
Whichever system is used, the heat source is located under the floor and the area to be heated is separated into separate zones (normally one zone per room) and each zone is heated and controlled independently.
So, what are the benefits?
Water based under floor heating claims to be cheaper to run than central heating using radiators. This claim may be justified if the heating system were switched on for 24 hours a day.
It is also claimed that the same level of comfort is achieved with the temperature in an under floor heated room about 2°C lower than in a room heated with conventional radiators. Wall mounted radiators act as connectors to heat the air, with under floor heating, the whole floor area acts as an emitter for radiated heat.
With no need for wall mounted emitters, there is less restriction on placing furniture in the room also less 'dust traps'.
In wet areas, (such as shower rooms, bathrooms, kitchens etc) the floors will dry off quicker.
Plumbing for Less is the place to look for entire bathroom suites, fixtures and fittings. For further information please call 0844 9800 156 or email sales@plumbingforless.co.uk.
