Underfloor heating has become increasingly popular in modern homes and renovation projects, providing invisible warmth that’s efficient and evenly distributed throughout a room. Along with this increase in demand, there has also been a debate about whether to opt for water or electric underfloor heating. In this guide, we’ll be looking at the two different variations, helping you make an informed decision when it comes to choosing wet or electric underfloor heating.
What is Underfloor Heating?
Before we get into the details of all the differences between water and electric underfloor heating, let’s make sure we’re clear about what underfloor heating actually is. Underfloor heating works by circulating heat beneath your floor, creating a luxurious, cosy feeling. Take a look at our full range of underfloor heaters to find your perfect underfloor heating solution.
Underfloor Heating Benefits
- More energy efficient than radiators
- Luxurious heating underfoot
- Even heating across the whole room/space
- More wall space (no need for radiators!)
Wet Underfloor Heating vs Electric Underfloor Heating Systems: Key Differences
Installation Process
Electric underfloor heaters are far easier to install than water underfloor heaters due to the nature of how they operate. If you’re looking for a DIY job rather than a full project, consider opting for an electric underfloor heater.
Running Costs
If you’re happy with a bigger installation project and are looking for something more cost-efficient in the long run, a water/wet underfloor heater would be a better choice, as electric ones are more expensive to run long term.
Floor Height and Build Up
Underfloor water heaters require more depth under your floor, something which will need to be taken into consideration. This means that water heater systems are often a great choice for new builds, as this can be accommodated for in the building process. Electric underfloor heaters don’t need as much floor height, so they’re a great choice for older and period properties.
Maintenance
Water underfloor heaters are more durable, but in the long run will need more maintenance, which can be expensive. Electric underfloor heaters, on the other hand, require little to no maintenance, but can have a shorter lifespan.
What is Water/Wet Underfloor Heating?
In water underfloor heating systems, heat is distributed around the house via thin pipes laid under the floor. These pipes carry hot water around the home, releasing heat from below your flooring, creating a cosy atmosphere. The water is heated in the main boiler of the home, and the temperature can be controlled on a thermostat.
In cases where the boiler supplying hot water for the household is gas powered (as is the case in most UK households), this type of heating system is known as wet underfloor heating. Wet underfloor heating systems involve a bulky network of pipes running through the house, so they can only be fitted in homes where there is sufficient space under the floor to accommodate the pipework. Although allocating this space is not a problem in new builds, electric underfloor heating is often a more feasible option in existing properties.
Water/Wet Underfloor Heating Benefits
- Perfect for larger spaces or whole-house renovations
- More energy efficient for larger spaces
- Compatible with renewable energy sources
What is an Electric Underfloor Heating System?
An electric underfloor heating system uses electric wires fitted beneath the floor to provide heat. When an electric current is passed through the wires, they become hot and that heat is transferred through the floor to the room above.
Electric underfloor heating is easier to fit than wet underfloor heating, and t. The installation costs of an electric system are therefore lower. Because there are fewer spatial requirements for installing an electric underfloor heating system, they are often a more feasible option in existing properties.
Electric Underfloor Heating Benefits
- Perfect for retrofit projects
- Quick and easy to install
- Good for small areas
Choosing the Right System for Your Home
Choosing between a water and an electric underfloor heating system depends on a few key things, from your home's layout and heating needs, to your budget and renovation plans. Each system offers luxurious underfoot warmth, but they perform best in different situations. Need help picking the right one? Our team is here to help you find your perfect system, whether you opt for water or electric underfloor heating.
Water vs Electric Underfloor Heating FAQs
What are the disadvantages of electric underfloor heating?
If you're considering an electric underfloor heating system, there are a couple of disadvantages it's worth noting. For example, electric underfloor heating is better suited for smaller areas and single rooms, rather than a whole house system. They also typically have higher running costs compared to water underfloor heating and they often don't retain heat as effectively as water underfloor heating systems, making them less cost-efficient.
Is water underfloor heating expensive to run?
No, water underfloor heating is generally cheap to run compared to traditional radiators as it operates at a lower temperature and provides even heat distribution so rooms feel warmer at lower thermostat temperatures. Even heat distribution also means there is less energy waste, as heat doesn't get lost like with radiators. Water underfloor heating also works efficiently with heat pumps and modern boilers, making them an affordable heating option.
What is the cheapest way to run underfloor heating?
The cheapest way to run underfloor heating is to combine water-based underfloor heating with a heat pump or a modern and efficient boiler. It's also a good idea to install good insulation, especially around the pipes. Another way to cut heating costs is to use zoning, so you aren't unnecessarily heating unused areas or rooms. We also recommend avoiding overheating rooms, as underfloor heating works best when operating at steady temperatures, rather than quick bursts of high heat.
Which type of underfloor heating is best?
While there is no “best” type of underfloor heating, the right system depends on a couple of factors.
Water (wet) underfloor heating is best for:
- Whole-house heating
- New builds/extensions
- Homes with heat pumps
- Large floor areas
- Long-term energy savings
Electric underfloor heating is best for:
- Single rooms (bathrooms, kitchens etc.)
- Renovations and retrofits
- Projects with limited floor build-up
- Quick installation needs
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