Electric underfloor heating is a comfortable and energy-efficient way to make your home cosy and warm during the colder months. The provided warmth is evenly distributed throughout the room. In contrast to water heating systems, electric ones are laid directly on the screed and closer to the final floor covering, like tiles or laminate.
This results in a significantly shorter response time, allowing the floor to heat much faster than traditional wet systems. Electric underfloor heating systems are popular for their ease of installation and low running costs, making them suitable for professionals and DIYers.
Below, you’ll learn how to install electric floor heating, how to do it yourself and how to be prepared.
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Can you do it yourself?
If you are an experienced DIY enthusiast, installing electric underfloor heating is not that hard. Modern systems, particularly electric underfloor heating mats, are designed for easy installation. They come with installation instructions that simplify the process, but for safety, certain tasks require a qualified electrician.
If you’re comfortable with basic installation steps, such as laying the mats or cables, and have experience with similar projects, you can handle most of the job. However, tasks like connecting the system to the power supply should always be done by a professional.
In case you’re uncertain or not experienced in electrical work, our advice is to consult an underfloor heating expert.
What are the different types, and which one should you choose?
There are different types of electric underfloor heating systems available. The right one depends on your floor type and the layout of your space.
Here are the main kinds of systems:
- Electric underfloor heating mats – best suited for tiled floors and timber floors. They’re pre-wired, come with self-adhesive backing, and are easy to install. They work well for retrofitting in spaces like bathrooms or kitchens.
- Loose wire systems – also known as heating cables. They are more flexible and are suitable for strangely shaped areas with many fixtures, such as kitchen units.
- Foil systems are designed for floating floors like wood flooring or laminate. These are ultra-thin and won’t raise floor levels significantly, making them a good choice for rooms where floor height is a concern.
Choose the system based on your floor finish and the room’s needs. For example, UFH mats are perfect for tiled floors, while heating wires are great for rooms with more complex layouts.
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What do you need before you start?
Before starting the electric underfloor heating installation, make sure you have the needed materials and tools ready. They will be helpful to smooth out your work process.
Here’s what you need:
- Insulation boards – prevent heat loss and improve the system’s energy efficiency.
- Electric underfloor heating mat or heating cable – choose based on the type of system you’re installing.
- A power source that is connected to the main supply.
- A floor sensor to regulate the temperature of the heated area.
- Flexible tile adhesive or self-levelling compound to provide a smooth surface for the final floor finish.
- Suitable floor covering, like wood, tiles or vinyl, works well with electric underfloor heating systems.
Having the right instruments and materials ensures that the installation goes effortlessly. Always check the manufacturer’s installation instructions to confirm that you have everything you need for your specific project.
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Safety precautions
Your safety is most important when installing underfloor heating. That’s why you should follow safety steps to avoid accidents and ensure the longevity of your system.
The tips we can give you are these:
- Only a qualified electrician must handle the wiring and connections.
- Always perform a resistance test before and after the installation to ensure the system works properly.
- Never lay heating cables over expansion joints or under permanent fixtures like kitchen units.
- Make sure all heating wires are insulated to prevent accidents or short circuits.
You can guarantee the effective and secure operation of the electric underfloor heating system by following the above-mentioned safety measures.
What does the process entail?
The process involves six key steps – from planning to final testing. Below is our step-by-step guide.
Planning
Start by creating a floor plan. Measure the floor space and determine where to place the heating mats or wires. Determine where the thermostat will go and how it will connect to the power source.
Preparation
Before laying the heating mats, ensure the floor area is clean and dust-free. Installing insulation boards is necessary if you want to maximise the system to be energy efficient. Also, you’ll ensure even radiant heat distribution.
Laying the heating mat or cable
When laying the heating mat or heating wire, follow your floor design closely. For mats, cut them carefully to fit around corners. Install the floor probe between the mats to monitor temperature changes.
If you’re using a loose wire system, ensure the cables are not cut or overlapped, maintaining an 8 cm distance between them.
Thermostat installation and wiring
A certified electrician should install the thermostat and connect it to the main supply. Make sure that the floor sensor is correctly positioned between the heating wires for accurate temperature regulation.
Floor covering selection
Choose a floor finish that is compatible with electric UFH systems. Tiled and wood floors are popular options. The right material allows the heat to transfer efficiently without restricting the flow of radiant heat.
Final touches
Apply self-levelling compound or flexible tile adhesive over the electric underfloor heating mat to smooth out the surface. Avoid creating air pockets, as they can reduce heat conduction. Once everything is set, conduct a final resistance test to confirm the system is working as it should be.
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What should you pay attention to when installing electric UFH?
There are several considerations to have in mind when installing underfloor heating. First, it can be very helpful to consult an underfloor heating expert and also to read the installation instructions to create a detailed plan carefully.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind:
- It may be easier to lay several shorter heating mats instead of one large one. That depends on the square meters and layout of the room. For electric underfloor heating mats, it’s also possible to connect multiple grids to one thermostat, if the overall power is not higher than the thermostat’s limit.
- The heating cable must never be shortened. Each cable has a specific resistance value, and altering it can lead to overheating and system failure.
- Place the floor sensor near the thermostat, ensuring it lies between the heating mats or heating foils at the same height.
- Always maintain at least an 8 cm distance between the wires and keep the grids about 10 cm away from the walls.
- Measure the resistance of the heating grids before and after installation to ensure no damage has occurred during the process. Repeat the test after the final floor finish has been applied.
- Wait for the adhesive to fully dry before turning on the system, then gradually increase the temperature.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure a safe and successful installation process of your electric underfloor heating system.
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Should you opt for professional services?
While installing electric underfloor heating is not hard for many DIYers, certain aspects may require professional expertise. In particular, electrical work should always be handled by a professional.
Here’s when to consider hiring an underfloor heating expert:
- If you lack experience with electrical installations or feel unsure about wiring tasks.
- If you’re working with multiple rooms or large heated areas or need to handle more complex floor finishes like wet systems or timber floors.
- To ensure compliance with local building codes and regulations, especially when dealing with electrical connections.
Hiring a professional to install the system safely and correctly reduces the risk of issues later on. Additionally, most installers provide warranties that can offer peace of mind and further protection.
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How do you choose the right company?
When opting for professional installation, finding the right company is crucial.
You can use the following criteria to choose the right specialist:
- Ensure the renovation company you chose employs certified electricians who can handle wiring and installation to the highest standards.
- Look for experience in working with a range of floor types, including tiled floors, wood flooring, and more complex wet systems.
- Pricing transparency is also essential. The specialist should give you a detailed breakdown of potential costs.
- Read customer reviews and ask your friends and family for recommendations.
Trusting a professional for the installation can significantly improve the long-term performance of your electric underfloor heating system. It also lowers the running costs and increases the home’s comfort.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I install electric underfloor heating myself?
Yes, you can install your own electric underfloor heating, if you’re experienced in DIY projects. Installing an electric underfloor heating mat is more convenient in case you’re not a professional. However, a certified electrician should do certain steps, like wiring, to ensure the safety of your household.
Is it possible to install UFH under the existing floor?
Sure, you can install electric underfloor heating beneath an existing floor if you can reach your floor joists from underneath your house.
Do I need insulation boards for electric underfloor heating?
Yes, insulation boards are important when installing electric underfloor heating. They can prevent heat loss, making the system more energy-efficient. This is especially important for rooms with cold surfaces like basements or ground floors.
How long does it take for electric underfloor heating to warm up?
The warm-up time depends on factors such as the room’s size, the floor finish, and what type is the UFH system. It ranges within 10 to 20 minutes if the insulation is done properly.
