Underfloor heating
Underfloor heating is a modern, energy-efficient way to heat your home. It’s a cleaner, more sustainable way to heat homes and can help to reduce carbon emissions.
How it works
It works by spreading heat evenly across the entire room from the ground up, not just in one area like with radiators. This creates a comfortable, consistent warmth without cold spots or draughts.
Underfloor heating systems are made up of pipework installed under the floor. Warm water flows through these pipes to heat the floor. A heat source, for example a heat pump or a HIU, supplies warm water to the underfloor heating via a manifold. The manifold controls the water flow to each room which then transfers a gentle and even heat into the room.
Underfloor heating operates at lower temperatures than traditional heating solutions such as radiators. This makes underfloor heating very energy efficient as it doesn’t have to heat the water to a high temperature. This reduces energy consumption while keeping your home warm, leading to lower energy bills.
Underfloor heating systems have slower heat-up times due to their lower operating temperatures and large surface area, so it can take time to reach your desired temperature. Set the temperature slightly earlier so rooms are warm when you need them.
The size of your property and the floor material, such as tiles, wood, or carpet, can affect warm-up times.
Controlling your underfloor heating using a thermostat
To maximise comfort and efficiency, use thermostats to control your heating. Smart thermostats allow for ‘zoning’, meaning you can:
- Set different temperatures in different rooms.
- Schedule heating to match your daily routine.
- Reduce heating in unused rooms to save energy.
To find the thermostat instructions for your home, refer to the manufacturers instructions provided when you moved in.
Getting the most out of your underfloor heating
Underfloor heating systems are designed to work best at lower temperatures compared to traditional radiators. Radiators typically need to be heated to around 65-75°C to heat a room effectively, whereas underfloor heating systems usually operate at lower temperatures.
Here are some tips to maximise the efficiency of your underfloor heating system.
Maintain a consistent temperature
It’s more efficient to maintain a constant temperature (between 18-22°C) instead of turning it off and on. This helps maintain warmth and prevents long heat-up times.
Use a thermostat
Use your thermostat to set the temperature slightly earlier so rooms are warm when you need them. Lowering temperatures in unoccupied rooms will reduce energy costs.
Avoid overheating
Underfloor heating works slowly and steadily, so avoid dramatic temperature changes. Heating the system higher than necessary doesn’t warm the space faster but does increase energy consumption.
Use zoned heating
You can set different temperatures in different rooms, each controlled separately. This is efficient as you can heat only the rooms in use, rather than the entire house.
Recommended Temperature Settings
Using your thermostat, you can change the temperatures in different rooms. For example you may want your living area warming than your bedroom. The below temperatures are just a guide and it all depends on your routine, your schedule and your preferred temperature.
Living room
You might often use your living room for relaxation, so maintaining a comfortable temperature during active hours is ideal.
| Time | Suggested temperature | Description |
|---|---|---|
| From 5am | 21°C | Start your morning at a comfortable temperature. |
| From 9am | 18°C | Reduce the temperature during the day to save energy when the room is not being used. |
| From 4pm | 20°C | Preheat the room before you need it for evening comfort. |
| From 6pm | 21°C | Warmer temperature for relaxation during the evening. |
| From 9pm | 20°C | Lower the temperature at night to save energy. |
| Overnight | 18°C | Maintain a minimal temperature during the late hours. |
Bedroom
You may want a cooler temperature in the bedroom, to promote restful sleep.
| Time | Suggested temperature | Description |
|---|---|---|
| From 4am | 18°C | Start your morning at a comfortable temperature. |
| From 9am | 16°C | Reduce the temperature when the room is empty during the day. |
| From 6pm | 17°C | Set a minimal but comfortable temperature for early evening. |
| From 8pm | 18°C | Warmer setting for evening relaxation if using the bedroom. |
| From 10pm | 16°C | Cooler temperature for optimal sleep. |
| From 11pm | 15°C | Minimal setting to save energy during late hours. |
How long does it take to heat up?
Underfloor heat-up times vary based on:
- The size of the room
- The heat-loss and the insulation of the space
- The type of floor finish (tiles, wood, carpet)
- The type of system and its heat source
How can my underfloor heating be serviced?
All serviceable parts and plumbing joints are located in the manifold above the floor so they are accessible.
Metropolitan recommend that your underfloor system is serviced by a qualified plumber.
