What is a heated floor system and how does it work?

What Is Underfloor Heating?

Underfloor heating is a heating system installed beneath the floor surface in homes or other enclosed spaces. This system evenly warms the floor, providing a comfortable and uniformly distributed heat throughout the room. Unlike traditional radiator systems, underfloor heating transfers heat from the bottom up, making it a more efficient and economical heating method.

Types of Underfloor Heating Systems

1. Electric Underfloor Heating

This system involves placing special electric cables or heating films beneath the floor. When powered, these cables heat up, warming the floor surface.

2. Water-Based Underfloor Heating

In this system, warm water circulates through pipes installed under the floor. The heat is supplied via a boiler or combi system. This type is considered more suitable for larger areas.

Advantages of Underfloor Heating

• Even heat distribution throughout the room

• Comfortable temperature for feet

• Aesthetic appearance due to the absence of radiators

• Energy efficiency (especially in water-based systems)

• Reduced allergy risks (due to decreased dust circulation)

How Does Underfloor Heating Work?

Underfloor heating is a modern heating method that warms a room through heating elements placed beneath the floor. Heat is distributed from the bottom up, ensuring an even temperature throughout the space. To understand how underfloor heating works, let's look at its two main types:

1. Electric Underfloor Heating System

In this system, electric heating cables or films are installed beneath the floor. The operating principle is as follows:

• Electrical current is supplied to the heating cables.

• The cables heat up, warming the surrounding floor materials.

• The heated floor then radiates warmth into the room.

• A thermostat controls the temperature and regulates energy consumption.

✅ Advantages: Easier to install, primarily suitable for small areas.

2. Water-Based Underfloor Heating System

This system provides heat through warm water circulating in pipes beneath the floor:

• A combi boiler or gas boiler heats the water.

• The heated water circulates through the pipes under the floor.

• The pipes warm the floor, which then radiates heat into the room.

• The system is managed via a thermostat and special distribution valves.

✅ Advantages: More economical for large areas and offers long-term energy savings.

Main Components of an Underfloor Heating System

• Heating element (cable, film, or pipe)

• Thermal insulation – ensures heat is directed upwards, not downwards

• Thermostat – for automatic temperature regulation

• Sensors – measure floor temperature

Where Are Underfloor Heating Systems Used?

Underfloor heating systems have wide applications and are used in various indoor spaces to provide comfortable and efficient heating. Their popularity is increasing due to both aesthetic benefits and energy savings.

Key Areas Where Underfloor Heating Systems Are Used:

1. Apartments and Private Homes

• Rooms: Bedrooms, living rooms, children's rooms, and hallways benefit from underfloor heating by enhancing comfort levels.

• Bathrooms: Especially in bathrooms and sanitary areas, electric underfloor heating systems are commonly used to keep feet warm, adding extra comfort.

• Kitchens: Since floor coverings (ceramic, stone, etc.) are cold, underfloor heating is an ideal solution here.

2. Offices and Commercial Spaces

• In areas where visible heating sources are undesirable and aesthetic appearance is important, underfloor heating systems are highly advantageous.

• They are used in beauty salons, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants to ensure customer satisfaction and comfort.

3. Kindergartens and Schools

• In places where children often sit on the floor, underfloor heating systems provide a safe and healthy heating option.

4. Hospitals and Clinics

• Since a sterile and dust-free environment is crucial, underfloor heating offers cleaner heating compared to dust-emitting systems like radiators and fans.

5. Garden Houses and Villas

• Water-based underfloor heating systems are ideal for these types of large-area homes to save energy and distribute heat evenly.

How Is Underfloor Heating Installed?

Installing an underfloor heating system requires technical precision and planning. The installation method varies depending on the type of system—electric or water-based. Below are the general installation steps for both types:

Installing Electric Underfloor Heating

1. Preparing the Floor

   • The existing floor is cleaned and leveled.

   • Thermal insulation material (polystyrene or foil insulation) is laid to reduce heat loss.

2. Placing Heating Elements

   • Electric cables or heating mats are placed on top of the insulation layer.

   • Cable density and spacing are adjusted according to the room's size.

3. Installing Thermostat and Sensor

   • A sensor is installed to measure floor temperature, and a thermostat is set up to regulate heat.

   • The sensor is typically placed at the same level as the heating elements, within a protective conduit.

4. Applying Protective Layer and Floor Covering

   • A thin layer of self-leveling compound may be applied over the system.

   • Then, ceramic tiles, laminate, or other suitable floor coverings are installed.

5. Testing the System

   • All connections are checked before powering the system.

   • The system is activated via the thermostat and tested.

 Installing Water-Based Underfloor Heating

1. Installing Insulation and Pipe Guides

   • Thermal insulation (e.g., polystyrene boards) is laid first.

   • Metal mesh or special plastic panel systems are installed to guide pipe placement.

2. Laying Heating Pipes

   • Flexible heating pipes (PEX or similar) are laid in spiral or "snail" patterns over the guides.

   • The spacing between pipes is typically 15–30 cm.

3. Pressure Testing

   • The system is pressurized to check for leaks.

   • Once reliability is confirmed, proceed to the next step.

4. Pouring Concrete and Applying Floor Covering

   • A cement-concrete mixture is poured over the pipes and leveled.

   • The layer is allowed to cure for approximately 21–28 days.

   • After curing, the floor covering is installed (ceramic, parquet, etc.).

5. Connecting to Heat Source

   • Pipes are connected to the combi boiler or boiler.

   • The system is managed via a distributor and circulation pump.

Frequently Asked Questions About Underfloor Heating

What is an underfloor heating system?

• An underfloor heating system is a heating solution installed beneath the floor that warms the room from the bottom up. It can be either electric or water-based.

What is the difference between electric and water-based underfloor heating?

• Electric underfloor heating uses energy-powered cables, while water-based systems circulate hot water from a boiler through pipes. Electric systems are suitable for small areas, whereas water-based systems are better for larger spaces.

Is underfloor heating safe?

• Yes, when properly installed, both electric and water-based underfloor heating systems are safe. Temperature is controlled via thermostats and sensors.

Which floor coverings are compatible with underfloor heating?

• Materials like ceramic, laminate, parquet, and vinyl are suitable for underfloor heating. Thick carpets may hinder heat distribution.

How much energy does an underfloor heating system consume?

• With proper insulation, underfloor heating systems are energy-efficient. Electric systems are more economical for small areas, while water-based systems are better for larger spaces.

Can underfloor heating replace radiators in a home?

• Yes, underfloor heating can fully replace radiators, offering more even heating and aesthetic advantages.