FloRad. Underfloor heating specialists

If you are looking for an underfloor heating system then you’ll probably find that a water underfloor system is going to be the most heat efficient and cost-effective system for your project. There are a few instances where electric underfloor heating is more suitable, especially where the floor size is very small, but in most domestic and commercial applications water underfloor heating is the most efficient option.

How Does a Water Underfloor System Work?

Warm water from a boiler is circulated along continuous reinforced polyethylene pipes which are laid under or in the floors surface within moulded insulation panels that maximise heat retention. The water is heated to a lower temperature than the traditional water central heating (approximately 50-60°C rather than 75-80°C plus). This means the system is perfect for use with more eco friendly heating methods like high efficiency condensing boilers, heat pumps and solar water heaters.

Each room in the building has its own pipe circuit that is connected to a heating manifold with water regulating valves. This means that each room can also be controlled by an individual thermostat. When the room reaches the required temperature, the thermostat signals the manifold valve to stop the rooms supply.

Benefits of Water Underfloor Heating

The energy efficiency of the actual system is significant in comparison to standard central heating. Coupling it with an energy efficient heat supply makes underfloor heating incredibly eco friendly and cost effective to run. The system delivers an even heat through the room that feels more natural. Underfloor heating is a silent system that you will hardly notice when it is on. Furniture, plants, wall coverings etc will not suffer the drying out caused by radiators. Underfloor heating does not use convection to distribute the heat. Convection circulates the dust that causes allergies so the system can be very good for allergy suffers. The lack of dust distribution also reduces the need for cleaning.

The air is not made as dry and condensation is also reduced. This is of particular benefit to the elderly, those with breathing disorders and arthritis. The systems are almost maintenance free; with modern developments they experience very few problems. Quality systems can last for more than 25 years. The system is remarkably thin so it does not affect the floor levels significantly. Without radiators, you will have much more wall space and freedom to decorate and re-arrange your room as you like. In wet areas, (bath, shower rooms, kitchen etc) the floors will dry off quicker. Because systems like those designed by Florad monitor and control the return water temperature, floor temperature is always below the level of 'tired feet syndrome', often associated with electric underfloor heating. One hidden benefit of wet underfloor systems is that can also be used in 'reverse' to circulate cold water through a building to expel heat. A welcome ability in a climate as variable as that within the UK.