People are always looking for ways to save money, but is it really worth the cost of installing underfloor heating?
Introduction to Underfloor Heating
Underfloor heating systems are becoming very popular nowadays because of the comfort they provide, the energy efficiency and the lower maintenance requirements.
The first thing to know is that there are two different underfloor heating systems:
- A water-based system that runs warm water through pipes embedded in slab concrete providing the heat (Hydronic underfloor heating)
- An electric based system is a method of space-heating that uses a thin heating wire installed under the surface of your floor. The wires warm up when required, heating the floor surfaces which then gives off radiant heat to your room.
We are going to focus on electric floor heating.
Benefits of Underfloor Heating
Underfloor heating provides a seamless effective heat source for the home. It is a reliable and efficient system, designed to insulate and protect your home's floors against dampness and cold. It heats the flooring consistently, providing a comfortable living environment.
Underfloor heating can be installed in new construction or for renovation projects. The installation is completed quickly with minimal disruption to the home and no need for constant monitoring. Underfloor heating is a great money saver and incredibly safe for the family.
Installation & Maintenance Tips for Underfloor Heating Systems
Underfloor heating is a cost-effective method of heating your home. Underfloor heating is not only cheaper to install, but also cheaper to run because it does not require any additional ventilation.
Underfloor heating systems are an excellent way to make sure your home is warm and cosy during the colder months.
How Much Does Underfloor Heating Cost?
There are many areas to consider when looking at underfloor heating systems. Choosing an electric or hydronic heating system, the cost to install heated floors, and the type of flooring material used are examples of questions that will need to be answered. The average heated floor cost for installation in Australia is between $30 - $115 per m2
How Much Does Floor Heating Cost Per m2?
Electric floor heater mats are easy to install and can be done as a DIY project. You will need a qualified electrician to install the conduit and connect the wires of your floor heating system to your thermostat. The average cost for labour in Australia averages $25 per hour.
How Much Does Underfloor Heating Cost to Run?
One of your concerns might be how much it costs to run underfloor heating in the long run. Underfloor heating running cost depends on two factors: your electricity rate and the heat load of your heated floor. The average load is around 120 watts per square metre. The number is based on the total square footage of the area to be heated.
Electric underfloor heating prices will always run higher than that of hydronic. The average underfloor heating cost will range between $20 to $150 per month depending on the various factors that have already been mentioned.
Price Estimates for Different Types of Underfloor Heating
Electric underfloor heating works by way of a system of heating coils installed under the floor. An in screed electric heater costs around $115 per square metre. In comparison, an in-slab heater costs around $40 per square metre. You can also get a programmable digital thermostat for around $200. The type of power supply will also affect the cost of installation. You can choose a conventional hook up to the grid, or you can choose solar.
In screed – In screed systems involve putting a thin layer of concrete over the installed pipes or electric heating coil.
In slab – An in-slab system is often sandwiched between two layers of concrete. If you have it installed in a new build, it averages around $70 per square metre.
Under tile – Many people choose to install underfloor heating underneath a tile floor. Heated tile floor costs can be expensive, depending on the type of tile or stone that is chosen. However, because of the heat retention properties of stone, it can be inexpensive to operate over time.
So is underfloor heating worth it?
Underfloor heating is an easy and effective way to keep your home cosy. While they may come with an installation cost, the overall energy efficiency can deliver big savings on your energy bills longterm.
So if you are planning a new build, or renovating underfloor heating is a great option. With all things considered, the comfort and energy savings that underfloor heaters provide will undoubtedly add value to your home.