The Best Electric Underfloor Heating: A Comprehensive Guide | eZheat UK
Electric underfloor heating is a perfect way to keep your home or business warm and cosy, especially during the colder months of the year. It is a cost-effective and efficient way to heat your home, and it can also help to reduce your carbon footprint. With so many options available to choose from, it can be quite challenging to know which electric underfloor heating solution is right for you. In this guide, we will discuss the best electric underfloor heating systems available and provide you with a step-by-step guide to help you choose the right underfloor heating system for your home.
What is Electric Underfloor Heating?
Electric underfloor heating is a system of heating cables or mats installed beneath the floor of a room. The system is powered by electricity, which heats the cables, and in turn, warms the floor and the room above. The warmth radiates upwards, providing even and comfortable heat throughout the space. Electric underfloor heating systems are easy to install and can be used in any room of the home. They are particularly popular in bathrooms and kitchens, as they provide a warm and comfortable surface to walk on. Electric underfloor heating can be installed under most types of flooring, including tiles, laminate, and carpet.
How to Choose the Best Electric Underfloor Heating System
When it comes to choosing the best electric underfloor heating system, there are several factors to consider. The size of the room, the type of flooring, and the level of insulation all play a role in determining the right system for your home.
Step 1: Determine the Wattage Required
The first step in choosing the right electric underfloor heating system is to determine the wattage required. This is calculated based on the size of the room and the level of insulation. The higher the level of insulation, the less wattage is required to heat the room. For example, TrueHeat offers electric underfloor heating kits in various wattages, including 100W, 140W, 160W, and 200W. The 100W heating mats are ideal for well-insulated rooms with an existing heat source, 140W for laminate floor finishes, and the 200W heating mats are best for poorly insulated rooms or areas with high heat loss, such as conservatories.
Step 2: Choose the Right Heating Mat or Cable
Once you have determined the required wattage, the next step is to choose the right heating mat or cable. eZheat offers a range of heating mats and cables suitable for different types of flooring, including tiles, laminate, and carpet. There are several types of electric underfloor heating systems available in the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The two most common types are electric underfloor heating mats and electric underfloor heating cables.
Electric underfloor heating mats are made up of a thin mesh of heating cable that is pre-attached to an adhesive backing. The mats can be easily rolled out onto the subfloor, making them easy to install. They are also ideal for use with a variety of floor finishes, such as tile, laminate, and engineered wood.
On the other hand, electric underfloor heating cables are a series of heating cables that are installed in a serpentine pattern over the subfloor. The cables can be laid in a variety of configurations, depending on the shape of the room. Electric underfloor heating cables are often preferred for irregularly shaped rooms or areas with obstacles.
For example, the 140W under wood laminate mats are designed for use under laminate and engineered wood flooring. They are low-profile and easy to install, making them an ideal choice for those who want a discreet heating solution.
Step 3: Select the Right Thermostat
The thermostat is an essential component of any electric underfloor heating system. It controls the temperature of the floor and the room above, ensuring that the space remains at a comfortable temperature.
eZheat offers a range of programmable thermostats that allow you to set different temperatures for different times of the day. This can help to reduce energy consumption and save you money on your heating bills.
Step 4: Consider the size of your room
Another crucial factor to consider when choosing the best electric underfloor heating is the size of your room. A small room would require less heating than a larger room, and it would not make sense to install a heating system that is more powerful than what is necessary. On the other hand, if you have a large room, you need to ensure that the heating system you choose is powerful enough to heat the entire room.
In general, electric underfloor heating mats come in different sizes and power ratings. For instance, the eZheat electric underfloor heating mats come in power ratings of 100W, 160W, and 200W per square meter. If you have a small room, you could opt for the 100W mats, while the 200W mats would be more appropriate for a larger room with high heat loss.
Step 5: Consider the Brand
Once you have determined your heating needs and the type of electric underfloor heating system that would be best suited for your needs, the next step is to choose a reputable brand. Two of the most affordable and reliable brands in the market are TrueHeat and eZheat.
TrueHeat offers a range of electric underfloor heating kits that are designed for easy installation. Their kits come with everything you need to install the system, including a thermostat, heating mat, and installation instructions. The kits are available in a range of sizes and power ratings to suit different room sizes.
eZheat also offers a range of electric underfloor heating kits, including heating mats and cables. The kits come with a thermostat, installation instructions, and everything you need to install the system. eZheat kits are available in a variety of sizes and power ratings to suit different room sizes and heating requirements.
FAQs
Is electric underfloor heating expensive to run?
Electric underfloor heating can be more expensive to install than traditional radiators, but it can be more cost-effective in the long run due to its energy efficiency. The cost of running electric underfloor heating depends on the size of the room, the type of system used, and the amount of insulation in the room.
Is electric underfloor heating worth it?
Electric underfloor heating can be a great investment for homeowners looking for a comfortable, energy-efficient heating solution. It can provide a more consistent and even heat than traditional radiators, and it can also save space and add value to your home.
Is electric underfloor heating more efficient than radiators?
Electric underfloor heating can be more efficient than traditional radiators because it heats the floor and the room from the ground up, providing more even and consistent warmth. Additionally, electric underfloor heating systems can be controlled with thermostats and timers, allowing for greater energy efficiency.
What can go wrong with electric underfloor heating?
Like any heating system, electric underfloor heating can experience problems such as faulty thermostats, damaged heating cables or mats, or poor insulation. It is important to have your system installed by a professional and to perform regular maintenance to ensure it is working properly.