Considering ways to make your home more sustainable? Your heating system has a key role to play. More and more UK homeowners are exploring underfloor heating for its luxurious comfort and aesthetic appeal, as well as its energy saving efficiency and compatibility with renewable forms of heating such as heat pumps.
As the trusted local experts with over 25 years of experience as underfloor heating fitters under our belts, we’re the tried and trusted experts when it comes to underfloor heating installation.
Feel free to call us on 01858 433333 for any questions you have about whether underfloor heating is right for your property and lifestyle. In the meantime, read on to find out what to consider when installing underfloor heating.
Understanding underfloor heating
Here at Lewington’s we specialise in installing wet underfloor heating (UFH). This is a network of pipes installed beneath your floor, which transforms your entire floor into one large, gently warming radiator. Unlike conventional radiators, which heat the air and create uneven temperatures, underfloor heating relies on radiant heat. This warms people and objects directly, delivering cosier, more consistent warmth with less wasted energy.
How underfloor heating works
Simply put, warm water circulates through pipes spread under the floor, creating a large surface area for gentle, even heat to rise. Because you feel warmth at your feet where you need it most, underfloor heating typically operates at a lower temperature than radiators, saving energy while offering unbeatable comfort.
Why underfloor heating is considered sustainable
Underfloor heating’s eco credentials boil down to smarter use of energy and how easily it integrates with renewable energy systems such as air source heat pumps.
Energy efficiency and reduced carbon footprint
Underfloor heating operates at a much lower temperature (usually 35–50°C), so your boiler or heat pump uses less energy than traditional radiators. This can lead to lower bills and a smaller carbon footprint over the system’s life – a real win for sustainability and savings!
Improved indoor air quality
Unlike radiators, underfloor heating minimises air circulation, which means less dust and pollen movement in your home. For allergy sufferers, this is a major benefit, helping you breathe easier and keep interiors cleaner.
Even heat distribution
Gone are the days of chilly patches by the window or draughty hallways. Underfloor heating provides consistent, comfortable warmth right across the floor, so you don’t need to overheat rooms just to stay cosy in cold patches.
Integration with renewable energy
Underfloor heating pairs perfectly with renewables like air source and ground source heat pumps, which are more efficient at lower temperatures. If you’re planning on investing in solar panels or a heat pump, underfloor heating plays an integral part in helping you get the best return on investment.
Comparing underfloor heating with traditional heating systems
Efficiency and performance differences
Radiators need high water temperatures (up to 80°C), heat up quickly, and can cause temperature swings. Underfloor heating is slower to heat but keeps spaces warm for longer, using less energy over time.
Costs – installation v long-term savings
Upfront, underfloor heating will cost more to install, but once in, lower energy use can cut bills significantly compared to radiators, especially in well-insulated homes. The payback period varies, but monthly savings can start right away.
Space and design advantages
Eliminating radiators means you’re free to plan your furniture, windows or décor without bulky panels getting in the way. This maximises usable space, enhances your room’s appearance and gives you more design freedom, particularly in smaller homes.
Grants and incentives
It’s worth remembering that pairing your system with a heat pump is more affordable thanks to the UK’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), which offers sizeable financial support for a range of sustainable heating solutions. For up-to-date information, please visit our funding page.
Cost analysis and long-term benefits
Return on investment
Swapping old radiators for underfloor heating can increase your property value and cut monthly bills, especially if installed in conjunction with other sustainable systems such as air source heat pumps. Although the upfront investment is higher, the running savings stack up, future-proofing your home while benefiting your wallet.
Lifetime maintenance and repairs
Once installed, wet underfloor heating systems need little maintenance. As with any system, an annual service check is recommended, but the hidden pipes are robust and reliable. No bleeding radiators, no rust, just smooth operation.
Benefits of underfloor heating
Key benefits include:
- Consistent, luxurious warmth
- Improved energy efficiency and lower bills
- Integrates with heat pumps
- More design freedom
- Cleaner, allergy-friendly environment
Sustainability considerations for different homes
New build homes
Underfloor heating is ideal for new builds as the system can be planned to achieve maximum efficiency.
Retrofitting existing homes
Retrofitting is very doable, and our skilled underfloor heating system engineers can advise on insulation and floor height adjustments.
FAQs about underfloor heating
Is underfloor heating worth the investment?
For comfort, savings, and futureproofing, it’s a resounding yes, especially in well-insulated homes.
How much does underfloor heating cost?
Costs vary according to the type of system installed and the size and layout of your home. We are able to give you a detailed quote following a visit to your property.
Can underfloor heating be retrofitted?
Yes, this can be done using low-profile systems to reduce height impact.
What qualifications do your fitters have?
All our engineers are fully trained to install and maintain gas, oil and LPG central heating systems and renewable energy technology. As well as being Gas Safe, LPG and OFTEC accredited, they’re also certified by Worcester Bosch, REAL and MCS, and regularly attend training courses to ensure their knowledge is up to date.
How long does installation take?
Again, this varies by project, but our highly efficient underfloor heating fitters are able to provide a time estimate in advance.
Which floors are compatible for underfloor heating?
Underfloor heating is designed to work well with most types of hard flooring. When it comes to wood flooring, engineered wood is ideal to make the most of your system.
Find out more about underfloor heating today
Underfloor heating delivers on comfort, efficiency and style, helping you save energy, cut bills, and enjoy a warmer, healthier home. Not only that, its seamless fit with renewable systems makes it a smart investment for today’s eco-conscious homeowner.
Ready to take the next step? Speak with the experienced team at Lewington Heating, trusted underfloor heating fitters serving Leicestershire. Get in touch on 01858 433333 or fill in our contact form to get the process started.
