The UK’s homes account for more than a quarter of all emissions produced by the country, over half of which are a result of home heating. This puts the focus on domestic heating systems when it comes to creating sustainable homes that are fit for the future.

Underfloor heating (UFH) will play a significant role in the journey to more sustainable homes. Already being widely adopted in new build properties, it is also being retrofitted in existing homes and is unlocking the potential for greater levels of comfort, efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Part of the appeal of UFH is also in its ability to run effectively with a variety of heat sources, including traditional boilers and modern heat pumps.

For installers, being familiar with the variety of UFH systems available today, having the confidence to install them, and communicating the benefits with customers are all essential in creating heating systems that future-proof homes.

A universal fit

When it comes to efficiently heating a home, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Every home is different, spaces are often required to be flexible and aesthetics are becoming a determining factor in many situations. Overcoming these challenges, UFH systems offer a flexible way to conceal a home’s heating infrastructure beneath the floor to efficiently heat spaces.

On new build projects, UFH can easily be installed as part of the first-fix phase. Accommodated within the design specifications, systems can be economically installed to deliver tangible benefits – often supported by well-insulated walls, floors, and ceilings and, more frequently, through pairing with highly efficient heat pumps.

The benefits of UFH aren’t exclusive to new build properties. Existing homes can also unlock the benefits with systems such as JG LowFit by JG Underfloor, which are designed specifically for retrofit applications. Quick and easy to lay over existing floors, the system supports multiple pipe layouts to accommodate individual requirements, enabling installers to deliver the unrivalled benefits of UFH without incurring the expense and disruption of digging up floors.

UFH is also compatible with all sorts of heat sources. While at its most effective when used with heat pumps, UFH systems can be fed by traditional boilers, allowing for easy integration with existing heating infrastructures. This adaptability, combined with comfort and energy-efficiency benefits, makes UFH a practical and attractive heating solution for many households.

UFH vs radiators

Of course, the accelerated adoption of UFH reflects a shift away from traditional radiators. To support customers, installers will need to be prepared to answer questions on how these options compare.

Where sustainability is concerned, it is the operational functionality of UFH systems that unlocks the greatest results and sets it apart from radiators. That’s because radiators act a single source of heat, often sitting on one wall, but used to heat a much larger space. To sufficiently heat a room, radiators require flow temperatures of around 65-70°C to work effectively – a requirement which puts significant strain on the boiler. Even then, cold spots mean that radiators aren’t always effective in delivering reliable levels of comfort, and can lead to heating systems becoming inefficient and costly.

Alternatively, UFH transforms the entire floor area into a room’s heat source, distributing heat evenly to improve levels of comfort and eliminate cold spots. With a much larger surface area than radiators, UFH systems operate at significantly lower temperatures (typically 35°C to 45°C) which are in line with the updated Part L regulations, stating that the flow temperature shouldn’t exceed 55°C. In practice, this reduces energy consumption and makes UFH the environmentally conscious choice.

Bringing home the benefits

Besides the functional benefits of underfloor heating, freedom of design is another advantage that becomes available when switching to the more sustainable and effective form of heating. Radiators can limit furniture placement and disrupt interior aesthetics. UFH, on the other hand, remains hidden beneath the floor, freeing up wall space and allowing for more creative and flexible room layouts.

The cost-effectiveness and efficiency of UFH stem from its ability to operate at lower temperatures, work cohesively with energy-efficient technologies like heat pumps, and provide consistent warmth. These factors contribute to reduced energy bills, lower environmental impact, and long-term financial savings for homeowners.

Improved air quality is also a benefit of installing underfloor heating. Radiators can stir up dust and allergens due to air circulation, potentially aggravating allergies. UFH reduces air movement, leading to less dust circulation and ultimately contributing to better indoor air quality.

All in all, underfloor heating presents a range of advantages that triumph over traditional radiator systems. From enhanced comfort and energy efficiency to aesthetic freedom and improved air quality, UFH emerges as a forward-looking solution that offers homeowners and installers an environmentally friendly solution to heat homes.

A guide for installers

When it comes to unlocking the potential of underfloor heating – and supporting the plan to decarbonise the UK’s homes – installers are in the driving seat. It is their knowledge and hands-on expertise, backed by high-quality and reliable solutions, that supports homeowners to make the switch to more sustainable heating systems.

To ensure installers can fulfil their position in transitioning homes to the future of heating, the latest free e-guide from JG Underfloor delivers a wealth of insights – from installation tips and advice to navigating building regulations and efficient system maintenance.

To find out more, or download the e-guide for free, visit: johnguest.com/ufh-e-guide