With a focus on achieving the UK’s net-zero target in 2050, we are now seeing considerable evolution in the way we heat our homes. To drive forward and reach the goal, the government introduced a key regulatory change in June 2022 – the low water temperature update to the Building Regulations and Part L. 

These new rules mean that heating systems within newly built properties, or those undergoing certain levels of renovation, must now demonstrate a maximum flow temperature of 55°C.

Underfloor heating is a low temperature solution that dates back to Roman times. Tried and tested, this form of heating is the ideal solution, as such a system covers a much greater surface area than radiators, meaning it can run at 35°C rather than the 70°C of a typical radiator system. 

This not only ensures the solution meets the new regs, but it can also provide energy savings of between 15% and 40%.

The radiant heat emitted by underfloor systems is also more comfortable than the convected heat provided by radiators; these draw cold air across the floor before heating it and then convect the warm air upwards towards the ceiling.

Futureproof

With the new regs in force, low temperature heat sources, such as air source heat pumps (ASHPs), are becoming a regularly specified option for newbuilds, yet it’s possible that in an existing property, installers will likely be planning a system designed for a boiler.

Working with suppliers who can provide expert technical guidance is valuable and can ensure the system is designed with the future in mind. This includes considering possible heat source upgrades. This is another scenario where underfloor heating ticks every box.

An underfloor heating system can be designed to futureproof the installation, thanks to well-thought-through pipe spacing, and the ability to upgrade the manifold to increase the number of ports, if required. 

By contrast, standard radiators wouldn’t be capable of delivering the heat outputs required when linked to a low temperature heat source. They would need to be replaced by units potentially twice as large, which increases both waste and upfront customer investment.

Kinder to the planet

In addition to the many benefits underfloor heating provides once in-situ, the materials used to create the system also have a lower impact on the planet than traditional options, from production to decommissioning.

It’s important to remember that the heating system’s carbon footprint depends on several factors: the energy consumed or wasted, the manufacturing processes, and the product lifespan.

For example, we guarantee our high quality five-layer PE-RT (polyethylene of raised temperature resistance) pipe for 75 years, which could mean it outlives the building itself. In comparison, radiators have an average lifecycle of 25 years before they need replacing. So, within the lifespan of an underfloor heating system, a homeowner could need to replace their radiators up to three times.

PE-RT pipe is also sustainable as it can be melted down safely and reused once decommissioned. This further underlines the sustainability factor of the significant component of underfloor heating.

Boost occupant well-being

While energy savings and sustainability credentials come first when heating systems are being specified, another decisive factor is the way the system can support the health and wellbeing of the home’s occupants. This is particularly relevant for those suffering from asthma and allergies, helping them manage and possibly diminish their symptoms.

While the benefits of a warm home are well-publicised, the way a home is heated can also have a positive or negative effect on a person’s health. Radiant energy is emitted from the floor, making it the warmest part of the room, with the air cooling as it rises. The coolest air is near the ceiling and the warmest air is at floor level, right where we want it to be from a comfort perspective. 

This radiated heat creates fewer draughts and dust movements, and explains why underfloor heating is considered the most comfortable and healthy form of heating.