The Top Questions Customers Ask About Underfloor Heating

If you’re looking into underfloor heating, you’re probably curious, cautious, or a mix of both. You’re not alone. Nearly every time I speak with homeowners or property developers about heating options, the conversation eventually circles around the same batch of questions. And hey, I get it. Deciding whether to install underfloor heating isn’t something you’d take lightly. It’s not like picking out a new kettle. It impacts your daily comfort, your property value, and yes. Your wallet.

Having worked on more renovation and retrofitting projects than I can count across London and the South East, I’ve seen firsthand what excites people about underfloor heating. And what makes them hesitate. So let’s dig in and answer the top questions people tend to ask before taking the plunge.

Is Underfloor Heating Really More Efficient Than Radiators?

This one tops the list, every single time. And for good reason.

The answer? Yes, it typically is. But like most things, it depends on the setup. Wet underfloor heating systems (the ones that use warm water through pipes) can run at lower temperatures than traditional radiators. We’re talking around 27°C for floor surfaces, compared to radiators that often need to heat up to 65°C or more to get your room to a cosy level.

Because of that lower operating temperature, the energy required is also lower. Especially if it’s paired with a modern condensing boiler or even better, a ground or air source heat pump.

Verified Fact: According to the Energy Saving Trust (2024), homes with underfloor heating connected to heat pumps can reduce their heating bills by 25-40%, depending on insulation levels and system design.

In my own flat renovation in Surrey back in 2022, switching to a water-based underfloor system slashed my winter bills by roughly 30%. And yes, I did a proper year-over-year comparison because I was sceptical too.

Will It Work with My Existing Floors?

Short answer: almost always—but it depends on how smooth the transition is.

Retrofitting underfloor heating into an older home isn’t quite like laying a new rug. It’s more like performing surgery on your floors. For suspended timber floors, we often need to lift boards and fit insulation underneath. With concrete subfloors, the process can be more disruptive, especially if you’re going with a wet system.

That said, dry (electric) systems can be much easier to install, particularly in single rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. They’re thinner, so you won’t raise floor levels drastically, and some mats are slim enough to sit directly beneath tiles.

When I helped one couple in Brighton renovate their Victorian terrace, we opted for electric mats in their en-suite, paired with smart zoning controls. No fiddly pipework, no major upheaval. And their bathroom now toasts up in 15 minutes flat.

Will My Floors Get Uncomfortably Hot?

This one always makes me smile. People envision walking over piping-hot surfaces like a lava field. But that’s not how it works.

Modern underfloor systems are designed with comfort in mind. The aim isn’t to give you hot feet. It’s about gently and evenly warming the whole room from the ground up. Think of it like a big, slow, consistent hug. The result? No cold spots. No overheating radiator corners. Just lovely, balanced warmth.

Smart thermostats also play a big role here. Most systems let you set a floor temperature cap (often around 27°C for wood floors), so you’re always in control. No more stomping around on scorched laminate.

Is Underfloor Heating Expensive to Run?

Here’s the tricky bit. Initial installation can be pricey, especially with wet systems. You might pay anywhere from £2,000 to £4,500 for a whole-house install, depending on size, insulation, and whether you’re doing a new build or retrofit.

But when it comes to running costs, wet underfloor heating tends to come out cheaper in the long run. Especially with renewables in the mix.

Electric systems? They’re cheaper to install but more expensive to run, mainly because electricity still costs significantly more per kWh than gas (as of government rates from April 2025). So they’re best for small spaces or occasional-use areas.

A great example: We installed a water-based system in a 100sqm family home in Oxford connected to an air-source heat pump in early 2024. The clients reported a drop in monthly heating costs from approx. £180 to £115 during the peak winter months, compared to their old radiator setup powered by a non-condensing boiler.

What Flooring Can I Use with It?

This is where a bit of planning goes a long way.

Underfloor heating works best with materials that conduct heat quickly and efficiently. Stone and porcelain tiles are ideal. Engineered wood is a solid runner-up, but always check the manufacturer’s guidance for temperature limits. Some deal better with heat fluctuations than others.

Carpet? It can work, but you need to keep an eye on the TOG rating. Keep the combined rating (underlay + carpet) below 2.5 TOG for decent performance.

Personally, I’m a big fan of using underfloor heating beneath polished concrete or large-format tiles. Not only do they look stunning in modern homes, but they also hold and emit heat beautifully.

What’s Maintenance Like?

Here’s some good news: underfloor systems are surprisingly low maintenance. Water-based systems, if installed properly, can last 50 years or more with little upkeep. Just make sure you bleed them and check for airlocks occasionally. Electric systems don’t need bleeding but should be linked to safe RCD circuit protection and checked periodically.

I always advise clients to keep hold of their installation plans and warranty details. A reputable installer should include post-install support and show you how to operate and troubleshoot your thermostat settings.

Is It Worth It?

Honestly? Yes. If done right. Underfloor heating benefits include unrivalled comfort, better energy efficiency in well-insulated homes, and a minimalist aesthetic that frees your walls of bulky radiators.

But like any major investment, it pays to get expert advice, use certified installers (look for MCS, NICEIC, or Gas Safe qualifications depending on setup), and design the system correctly for your property.

If you’re renovating, extending, or building from scratch. Now’s the perfect time to at least explore your options. You might just find that toasty floors become your home’s new favourite feature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can underfloor heating be used as the primary heat source?

Absolutely, in many modern and well-insulated homes, underfloor heating can serve as the main heating source. It produces even ambient heat and works particularly well when paired with high-efficiency systems like heat pumps. Planning and sizing the system properly is key.

How long does it take to install underfloor heating?

This can vary quite a bit. A single-room electric install might be done in a day or two, especially in a bathroom. A full-house wet system retrofit might take a week or more, especially if it involves lifting floors, adding insulation, and connecting to a boiler or heat pump. New builds are usually quicker because there’s less disruption.

What’s the difference between wet and electric underfloor heating?

Wet systems circulate warm water through pipes beneath the floor and are usually more efficient for whole-home installations. Electric systems use heated mats or wires and are better suited to small areas. Wet systems have lower long-term running costs, while electric ones are cheaper and easier to install upfront.

Will it work with renewable energy sources?

Yes, and it works very well with them. Since underfloor heating operates efficiently at lower temperatures, it’s a fantastic match for heat pumps and solar thermal systems. This is one of the reasons it’s becoming so popular in new eco-focused builds in the UK.

Is underfloor heating suitable for older properties?

Yes, though retrofitting can be more complex. You’ll need to consider insulation levels, floor construction, and whether you’re willing to raise floor heights. A good installer will assess your home and recommend the most suitable system. Be it wet or electric.

If you’ve been toying with the idea of underfloor heating, now’s the time to get serious. Whether you’re knee-deep in a reno project or just dreaming about ditching clunky radiators, getting professional advice tailored to your home is the best next step.