Thermal comfort is very important in any home. Lately, underfloor heating systems are extremely popular. The reason is simple to guess. Nothing compares to the feeling you have when you get up in the morning and the floor has a pleasant temperature. The floor temperature is quite low, as the surface is larger than the one offered by conventional heating. The temperature is uniform and has the property of heating first the bodies it encounters and subsequently the air.
What types of underfloor heating are there?
We will discuss 3 different heating solutions: hot air, thermal and electric.
- Electric heating: involves the installation of a network of conductors, in which the resistors are incorporated. It is suitable for small spaces, is easy to install and is financially accessible.
- Hot air heating: involves the installation of a network of pipes under the floor, through which hot air is pumped. It is used mainly in industrial spaces.
- Heating with a liquid thermal agent
What are the benefits of underfloor heating?
The main advantage is that the heating is done uniformly in the air layers at the bottom of the floor. Unlike a traditional radiator, the underfloor heating system keeps the temperature constant throughout the home for a longer period of time. At the same time, this method does not push the air into various vents, reducing the spread of dust or allergens in the home.
This method of heating involves a greater financial investment than the traditional one, but the costs are quickly amortized. In the long run, underfloor heating is more affordable as a result. Maintained under optimum conditions, the installation has a lifespan of decades.
Common sense urges us to believe that in case of a failure, it is necessary to completely change the floor. In fact, the malfunction is located and the piece is replaced. Simple and fast!
Another advantage of this type of heating has to do with appearance. The heating system is invisible and the lack of radiators and pipes provides additional space. The amount of bacteria and mites that accumulate is greatly reduced. Bonus: cleaning is much simpler because you no longer have to clean hard-to-reach areas: the space between the wall and the radiator, the area around the pipes, etc.
It does not produce moisture or dries the air. And last but not least, it offers special comfort.
What are the disadvantages of underfloor heating?
The main disadvantage is the slower heating: it can take from one hour, in the case of the electric one and up to a few hours, in the case of water heating. Of course, this is influenced by other variables, such as the material from which the floor is made. However, once the floor is heated, it optimally retains heat and releases it over time.
Another disadvantage is the costs involved. Our recommendation is to work with a team of professionals when setting up the heating system. Otherwise, subsequent repairs may bring additional costs worth considering.
At the same time, such a system requires adjusting the decoration. If it is mounted underneath the furniture, it loses its thermal efficiency. Thus, you need to opt for furniture with support legs. Another solution is to reposition the furniture so that it does not sit directly on the heating system. Underfloor heating is ideal for people who appreciate the comfort of home. Imagine how important this aspect becomes, especially when talking about young children.
Wondering if you need this at home? Carefully analyze the advantages and disadvantages you impose in relation to your current situation and make the decision that suits you.
