Underfloor heating systems are becoming more and more popular, but the more popular they become – myths and misinformation is being created (especially online.) This is mainly due to the fact that underfloor heating systems used to be associated with luxurious hotel complexes and the homes of the rich and famous, whereas today, they are a viable investment for any homeowner!
We’ve written this blog post to inform you about the various myths that are circulated about underfloor heating systems which can be confusing if you are considering installing one of these systems in your property. So read on to find out more and see which underfloor heating myths we will be busting.
Table of contents
Myth #1 – Underfloor Heating is Only Suited For Luxurious Properties
Although this was true in the past, underfloor heating systems are now highly affordable and can be installed in your home. They used to be associated with famous hotels and extensive complexes such as sports centres but it is now a viable and excellent investment for both homes and businesses alike!
Myth #2 – Underfloor Heating Systems Cost a Lot to Run
It’s important to bear in mind for this myth that there are two different types of underfloor heating system, wet (hydronic) underfloor heating systems and electrical systems. Electric systems tend to have higher costs as electricity is more expensive than gas and this leads to the myth that all underfloor heating systems are expensive. We recommend wet underfloor heating systems as they use reduced temperatures to heat water which saves you money on energy bills in the long run. You can also setup a variety of different energy sources to your underfloor heating system so you can use a heat pump to power your system for example.
Myth #3 – My Underfloor Heating System Will Require Extensive Maintenance
This myth may exist because homeowners have a lot of experience using more traditional heating systems that do require regular maintenance. If an underfloor heating system is installed correctly, there is little to no maintenance required which is why it’s important to arrange for a professional to install your underfloor heating system if you are unsure about carrying out the installation yourself.
Myth #4 – Underfloor Heating Takes Longer to Heat a Room so Temperature is Not Consistent
Electric underfloor heating systems will take just under the same amount of time to heat up as radiators whereas wet underfloor heating systems will take a little longer to heat up. This does not however mean that the temperature is not consistent and your underfloor heating system will actually heat the room more evenly. Radiators pose the risk of draughts or pockets of air being trapped in the room which means that temperature levels are not consistent in your room. It’s important to turn on your underfloor heating system for when you need it and know the peak times in which you will need your heating turned on. Your underfloor heating system will also have a thermostat which you can use to control temperature levels.
Myth #5 – Underfloor Heating Is Bad For Your Health
Another mysterious myth that is circulated around underfloor heating systems is that they are bad for you. Older underfloor heating systems could heat up to over 35 degrees celsius, which would cause people’s feet to swell. Modern systems are a comfortable temperature and do not circulate dust particles. Underfloor heating systems are ideally suited for those who suffer from allergies as these particles are not dispensed in the air (an issue which is true for radiators unless they are regularly cleaned.)
It’s important to be highly aware of the myths that are circulated online. If you are unsure about an underfloor heating system or are interested in one of these systems then it’s highly recommended to speak to an underfloor heating specialist.
About the Author
Alexander Fox works for Easyflow Ltd. who are one of the leading providers of underfloor heating and liquid screed packages in the Midlands, UK, having many years of experience in this sector.