Electric Heating Experts
Underfloor Heating & Infrared FAQs
How does underfloor heating work?
What is radiant heat?
Radiant heat is a unique transfer of energy that naturally searches out colder objects to warm. Radiant heating systems can be installed in the floor (underfloor heating) or ceiling and use this system to heat the room.
Instead of heating the air, radiant floor heating systems heat the surface of objects or people in the room. These surfaces then gently warm the surrounding air, creating a natural warmth with minimal temperature variation throughout the room.
How efficient and clean are underfloor heating systems?
Traditional central heating systems work by heating water in radiators, which then heat the air. This creates air currents, causing warm air to rise and cold air to fall, resulting in uneven temperatures and a “hot head, cold feet” effect.
Radiant heat is one of the most efficient forms of heat distribution. Objects in the room are heated first, which then gently warms the surrounding air. This allows for lower air temperatures while maintaining comfort, reducing energy usage and heating bills.
Because there is no air circulation:- No draughts are created
- Dust is not circulated
- Ideal for allergy sufferers
Heat is distributed more evenly, creating a more comfortable environment.
Would underfloor heating suit my home?
Underfloor heating systems can be installed under almost any surface. They are completely invisible and operate silently.
Traditional radiators can impact room aesthetics and reduce usable space. Radiant floor or ceiling heating systems provide greater flexibility when designing your living space.
Do I need insulation?
Installing Ecomax insulation boards is highly recommended when fitting Flexel cable mats or loose heating cable. Insulation dramatically reduces warm-up times, meaning less energy is used and lower running costs.
While not always essential, insulation is strongly advised unless floor build-up is restricted.
For EcoFilm systems, EcoMax-Lite insulation is essential. It:
- Protects against moisture
- Prevents RCD tripping
- Provides sound insulation
Proper insulation improves efficiency and saves money over time.
| Underfloor Heating Setup | Heat Up Time |
|---|---|
| Timber sub-floor with 10mm insulation | ~0.5 hours |
| Concrete sub-floor with 10mm insulation | ~1 hour |
| Concrete with insulation below slab | 2–5 hours |
| Uninsulated concrete | 3–8+ hours |
What does underfloor heating offer that traditional heating does not?
Electric underfloor heating uses radiant heat (infrared energy) to heat people and objects directly. This allows for lower room temperatures while maintaining comfort.
Traditional radiators heat the air, creating circulation that causes uneven temperatures and moves dust and allergens.
- Luxury of a heated floor
- More usable wall space
- Lower surface temperatures (27–30°C vs 65–80°C)
- Reduced temperature variation
- Less dust circulation
What are typical running costs of underfloor heating?
Electric underfloor heating can cost as little as 5p per square metre, based on usage of around 7 hours per day.
Costs depend on energy tariffs, insulation levels, and heat loss in the room. Better insulation reduces warm-up time and energy use, lowering overall costs.
Even with minimal floor build-up, insulation boards can deliver significant savings.
What are typical running costs of radiant heating panels?
Radiant heating panels are highly efficient compared to traditional radiators.
A 500W radiant panel can provide similar comfort to a 1200W convection heater.
- Radiant panel: ~25p/day
- Convection heater: ~75p/day
This can result in savings of around £60 per year, with even greater savings possible due to faster heat-up times.
How do I choose the right radiant heating panels?
Flexel offers a wide range of radiant heating panels to suit different needs and preferences.
- Ceiling panels for discreet heating
- Wall-mounted panels for design features
- Custom printed panels
- Textured panels for increased efficiency
Consider room design, layout, budget, and mounting options when choosing the right solution.
