If you’ve got underfloor heating or you’re thinking of getting it, you’re probably wondering what temperature underfloor heating should be. After all, you want to set the right temperature to enjoy a warm, cosy home without wasting energy or money.
The ideal temperature for your underfloor heating system isn’t the same for everyone and depends on various factors such as:
- Climate: If you live in a colder area, you’ll likely need to set the temperature higher to keep your home warm.
- Flooring Type: Different materials conduct heat in their own ways. Tile and stone can handle higher floor temperatures, while wood and carpet are best at lower settings.
- Heating System: Electric systems can heat up quickly but might use more energy. Water-based systems are more efficient but take a bit longer to warm up.
- Insulation and Room Size: A larger room might require a higher temperature to feel comfortable. Good insulation can also make your system more efficient, affecting the optimal temperature for underfloor heating.
Types of Underfloor Heating
Choosing the right underfloor heating system for your home is essential for long-term comfort and efficiency. There are primarily two types of systems: electric and water-based.
Electric vs Water Underfloor Heating Systems
Electric underfloor heating systems use wires to generate heat. They can heat up quickly, which is great if you need warmth quickly.
Water-based or hydronic systems use heat pumps and warm water flowing through pipes to heat your floor. They’re generally more energy-efficient but take longer to heat up than electric underfloor heating.
Wires vs Pex Pipes: Temperature Settings
In electric systems, the wires heat up quickly, allowing you to raise the temperature in no time. This is useful for short-term heating solutions but can lead to higher energy bills if not managed carefully.
For water-based systems, a boiler is commonly used to heat the water circulating through the Pex pipes, which are durable plastic tubes that circulate warm water and heat the floor, providing a consistent and efficient heat source. The slower heat-up time means you’ll need to plan more in advance when setting the temperature. A layer of screed is often poured over the pipes during installation to help distribute the heat evenly across the floor. These systems often work best when maintaining a consistent temperature over longer periods.
If you’re wondering which system heats up faster, electric systems are the quicker option. But if you’re looking for efficiency, water-based systems are the better route.
Heating Control: Underfloor Heating Thermostats
There are two different types of thermostats: smart and manual. Smart systems allow you to control room temperatures individually and remotely, whereas manual thermostats are traditionally mounted onto a wall and must set the same temperature for all rooms.
Smart Thermostats
Can you control underfloor heating with a smartphone? Absolutely, if you have a smart thermostat. Brands like Hive, Nest, and Tado are popular in the UK and offer advanced features. These thermostats connect to your smartphone via an app, allowing you to control the temperature remotely. This is particularly useful if you’ve forgotten to adjust the settings before leaving home. Some models will allow you to set schedules, helping you manage the temperature more efficiently over the course of the day or week – some even learn your habits over time and auto-adjust to save energy.
Manual Thermostats
If you prefer a more traditional approach, manual thermostats are still widely used and reliable. Brands like Honeywell and Drayton are well-regarded in the UK. You’ll find a dial on these thermostats that you can turn to set the temperature. Numbers or markers usually guide you, making it straightforward to use.
Smart Thermostats vs. Manual Thermostats
| Feature | Smart Thermostats | Manual Thermostats |
| Control | Some models allow you to set different temperatures for different rooms, increasing overall comfort | You have to be physically present to adjust the settings |
| Energy Efficiency | Many smart thermostats learn your habits over time and adjust settings to save energy, making them more energy-efficient | Less energy efficient: Without smart features, you might forget to adjust the settings, leading to higher energy bills |
| Temperature by Room | Some models allow you to set different temperatures for different rooms, increasing overall comfort | With fewer features, there’s less that goes wrong, but the temperature must be set the same for every room in your home |
| Cost | Smart thermostats are generally more expensive to set up and use | Manual thermostats are generally less expensive to set up and use |
| Complexity | Smart thermostats can be more complicated to set up and use | Manual thermostats are straightforward to operate, with a simple dial to set the temperature |
What is the right temperature for underfloor heating?
A typical range for the right temperature for underfloor heating in most homes is between 16-27°C. This range is designed to suit various flooring materials and individual comfort preferences.
If you’re wondering how high you can set your underfloor heating, some systems can reach up to 32°C for quick warming. However, these high settings are not meant for long-term use as they can drain your energy bill or even harm your flooring.
In the winter months, most underfloor heating systems recommend a minimum temperature of around 16°C. This is particularly important to prevent issues like dampness and ensure the system operates efficiently.
Safety should never be overlooked. Exceeding the recommended maximum temperature can pose risks, including potential fire hazards. Refer to your system’s user manual for safety guidelines and maximum temperature settings.
Room-Specific Settings
Many modern underfloor heating systems offer zone control features, allowing you to set different temperatures for different rooms to meet these varied needs. This not only enhances comfort but can also be more energy-efficient, as you’re not heating rooms to temperatures higher than they need to be.
Bathrooms often need to be set at a higher temperature to warm tiles and help evaporate moisture quicker, reducing the risk of mould growth.
On the other hand, bedrooms are generally better off at a cooler temperature. A lower setting can improve sleep quality, and if the room is carpeted, the natural insulation of the material retains heat well, reducing the need for higher settings.
Living areas like kitchens and living rooms are often a middle ground where a moderate temperature is usually best, balancing comfort with energy efficiency.
Quality Underfloor Heating with GLP Services
If you’re looking to install, maintain, or get advice on underfloor heating, GLP Services is here to help. We offer expert services to ensure your home is warm, efficient, and safe. Don’t leave your comfort to chance; contact GLP Services today for all your underfloor heating needs.