Underfloor heating: wet or electric?

July 9, 2008 by kotoman

What are the pros and cons to the wet or ‘dry’ underfloor systems?

Wet systems
Wet systems circulate low temperature water (typically 50˚C) through a series of continuous pipe loops under the floor.
Great for: New-build properties, complete renovations, extensions and large areas.

Cost: Can be as little as £12 to 16 per sq m (for your average four-bedroom house), but as much as £30 per sq m for small areas, so the more rooms you have fitted with underfloor heating, the more cost-effective the system will prove. If underfloor heating will be the main form of heating in your home, it is more economical to choose a wet system.

Underfloor heating, whether wet or dry, provides an even heat that rises from floor level and frees up space from floors and walls that would otherwise house radiators.

Electric systems
Electric underfloor heating can be bought in the form of cable systems (available as either a basic heating cable or woven mat), flat cables, or heating films, made from carbon or aluminium.
Perfect for: Small areas (such as one room) and refurbishment projects, where you don’t want too much upheaval, such as your floor being dug up.
Cost: Approx £20* to £25 per sq m.

Note: you can lay a lot of the systems yourself (try Speedheat, Devi or HandyHeat for information on systems and advice on how to install them), which will save you some money on labour costs, although you must make sure you get a qualified electrician to do the all-important wiring up.

For more information on all the different types of underfloor heating and a list of manufacturers, go to www.continental-ufh.com, and the Underfloor Heating Manufacturer’s Association website at www.uhma.org.uk.

*Prices may increase

source: 4homes