Understanding Underfloor Heating.
An overview of commonly used underfloor heating types.
Underfloor Heating (UFH) is a form of heating used to provide heat to a property from below the final floor finish. There are two main types of UFH: Electric and Wet.
Why Underfloor Heating Works Slower Than Other Heating Systems
Underfloor heating systems operate at lower flow temperatures than standard radiators — typically between 35–55°C compared to 65–80°C for conventional radiators. Because the heat is distributed across a much larger surface area (the entire floor), the system takes longer to reach the desired temperature. However, once up to temperature, UFH is highly efficient at maintaining consistent warmth, resulting in a more even and comfortable heat distribution throughout the room.
Electric Underfloor Heating
Electric UFH systems are used solely for heating purposes. They are made up of flexible, non-corrosive heating elements, including cables, preformed cable mats, carbon films, and bronze mesh. These elements are installed beneath the floor and heat up when electricity is passed through them.
Installation and Commissioning
Electric UFH uses fewer components than Wet UFH, making it quicker and simpler to install and commission — no pipework, manifolds, or specialist plumbing is required. The heating elements are laid out on the subfloor, connected to a compatible thermostat and power supply, and then covered with the final floor finish. This makes electric UFH an especially practical choice for retrofit installations.
Leveraging Time of Use Tariffs
Electric underfloor heating systems can take advantage of time-of-use (ToU) energy tariffs — such as Economy 7 or Agile Octopus — by pre-heating during off-peak hours when electricity costs are lower. The system's thermal mass then retains and maintains that heat throughout the day, reducing the need to run the system during more expensive peak periods and providing a cost-effective heating solution.
Wet Underfloor Heating
Also known as Hydronic UFH, wet underfloor heating can be used for both heating and cooling purposes. It works by circulating a mixture of warm water and antifreeze through a network of polyethylene-based pipes embedded beneath the floor. Wet UFH is typically the preferred choice for whole-home or new-build installations due to its efficiency at scale.
How it Works
The UFH pipes are laid out in a closed-loop system, connected via a central manifold and pump. A heat source such as a boiler, air source heat pump, or solar thermal is used to provide warm water to the UFH pipes.
Benefits of Wet Systems
Wet UFH systems are highly efficient and can be more cost-effective to run than electric systems, especially in larger areas. They can also be integrated with renewable energy sources, making them an environmentally friendly option.
Both electric and wet UFH systems offer distinct advantages suited to different properties and requirements. When choosing the right system, consider the following key factors: - **Area size:** Electric UFH is well suited to smaller spaces and retrofits; wet UFH is more cost-effective for larger, whole-home installations. - **Heat source:** Wet UFH pairs efficiently with heat pumps and renewable energy sources; electric UFH connects directly to your home's electrical supply. - **Installation complexity:** Electric UFH is quicker and less disruptive to install; wet UFH requires more extensive groundwork but delivers greater long-term efficiency. - **Budget:** Electric systems have lower upfront costs; wet systems offer lower running costs over time. If you're unsure which system is right for your home, the Wondrwall Support Team is here to help.
If you have any issues which cannot be solved using our Support Hub, please don't hesitate to contact the Wondrwall Support Team for further assistance.