The Versatility of Underfloor Heating

There’s no denying that underfloor heating systems have become an increasingly popular option in homes in recent years. Thanks to significant advances in underfloor heating technology, we can now use the popular heating system in a variety of different properties, including historic buildings making it a versatile heating solution. But for every different property, there are different types of applications that are better suited to the property.

One of the most popular methods of installing underfloor heating is by laying it in screeded floors, particularly in new build properties. Laying underfloor heating with this method in extensions or where floors need to be replaced as part of a major renovation project is ideal.

The Process

Loops of hydronic pipe are laid over a damp proof membrane, protective layers and appropriate insulation material, before being fixed firmly into place using an anchorage system. The installation is completed by covering with screed to create a solid floor.

Aluminium Diffuser Plates

Another method of installation is with the use of aluminium diffuser plates. If you are not familiar with them, these are pre-formed sheets of aluminium that are fixed to wooden floor joists, with grooves to carry pipework.

This method of installing underfloor heating is frequently used for existing properties, on upper floors and particularly in historical buildings and its favoured as a means of introducing central heating for the first time. As it’s installed underfloor, it means that there is less chance of causing damage to the building and avoids potential damage to wood panelling, mouldings, or wall coverings.

Aluminium diffuser plates can also be used to install underfloor heating over solid floors by fixing wooden battens to the floor in a pattern which imitates floor joists. The diffuser plates can then be fixed to wooden battens in the same way to the joists, where the gaps between the battens are filed with insulation before laying pipework, then creating a new floor surface to cover the top.

Floating Floors

Did you know that you can also install floating floors, or raised floors, with underfloor heating systems? This can be achieved by using an extruded polystyrene panel method. Panels come in a choice of thicknesses to suit the application, with pre-formed grooves to accommodate the hydronic pipework.

To add to underfloor heating’s versatile reputation, you can combine different methods of underfloor heating installation, so no one would even know the difference. The desire to have more open living space in a home is something that homeowners are striving to achieve, and even more, properties are being extended so that rooms are combined to create living, dining and kitchen spaces that flow nicely together. In these cases, installation methods across different zones in a renovated property can be combined. Once the floor covering has been successfully laid, no one would even notice that there are different types of heating systems going on underneath them.

But the versatility of underfloor heating doesn’t stop there. Within the same central heating system Omnia can combine underfloor heating systems with other products, which is increasingly popular. Underfloor heating is often installed on a ground floor with radiators on upper floors, providing rapid response to allow each occupant of the rooms to adjust them to their own preference. If you are going to combine products, we recommend that you stick to one manufacturer to ensure the consistency of the quality of the products and to make sure they all work efficiently together.

Ultimate Control

To get the most out of your underfloor heating system, no matter what kind of property you own, it’s pivotal to have an effective, easy-to-use control system like Nest Learning Thermostat. Whether you decide to operate your UFH on a single or multiple zones, you can use Nest Learning Thermostat to control your heating on your mobile wherever you are and to help save you energy. There are many different control systems available and Omnia can help guide you through them all until you find the one that suits you best.

To find out more about Omnia underfloor heating systems contact us on 01270 861100 or via email.

Underfloor heating (UFH) utilises the concept of ‘heat rises’ to provide a great alternative over traditional radiators. Our underfloor heating systems work by pumping warm water through pipes underneath the floor from a heat source such as a boiler. This type of UFH is known as a ‘wet’ system. Underfloor heating is extremely versatile and works with gas, oil and LPG boilers as well as heat pumps.

What is a Wet UFH System?

The advantage of a wet UFH system is that it allows heat to be evenly distributed in the area from below, leaving no room for cold spots in the room. UFH has the added benefit of keeping your feet nice and warm whilst your head stays cool, providing your body with an even temperature.

Why is Underfloor Heating so popular?

Standard radiators have to work harder for you to feel the heat as they require the water temperature to be higher to work effectively. As UFH disperses heat in a room, it requires the water to be at a lower temperature for it to work effectively, which allows your boiler to work more efficiently. Offering a luxurious way of heating your home that also saves you money.

Underfloor Heating Can Save You Money

Did you know that UFH systems are 25% cheaper to run than radiators with a condensing boiler and up to 40% cheaper to run with a heat pump, according to EuRay 2005.

More Efficient

Think about stone, wood or tile flooring with underfloor heating built in, the heat is retained, which means that opening a window will not affect the amount of heat in the room. In comparison to normal radiators where, as soon as a draft enters a room, the heat dissipates. This issue could be avoided with an UFH system.

Find out more and arrange a free survey on your home by calling Omnia on 01270 861100.