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Install floor heating

16/06/2022

What is a floor heating system?

This underfloor heating system has existed since the 1960s and consists of a network of cables or hydraulic tubes, directly installed in the concrete slab of the property.

There are several types of floor heating systems. The main ones are :

- Hydraulic floor heating: connected to the central heating system by pipes in which hot water circulates, this system costs about 70€ per m2. The hydraulic version requires little energy and is economical in the long term. A control must be carried out every 5 to 10 years to avoid leaks.

- Electric floor heating: the most common solution, as it is the easiest to install and maintain. The electric version is based on a network of heating cables, working like electrical resistances. With a price of around 40€ per m2, it is more economical to install but uses more energy than the hydraulic system, which makes it less ecological in the long term.

Underfloor heating is more aesthetic and pleasant to use. It allows you to walk around your home with bare feet in summer and winter. The underfloor heating brings a real comfort by diffusing a soft and uniform heat in the room. It is generally less energy consuming than a traditional electric or water radiator.

The advantages of a floor heating system

- Homogeneous heat distribution (between 21 and 28°C).

- Quiet and discreet. Placed in the floor, it frees up space.

- Some models of hydraulic floor heating can be transformed into air conditioning in summer, by circulating cold water in the pipes.

- An energy saving of about 15% compared to a traditional heating system.

- A hygienic heating system. Traditional radiators retain dust and are difficult to clean. The floor heating system does not displace impurities during air circulation, which guarantees a better indoor air quality.

- Requires very little maintenance.

- Easy to use thanks to the thermostat that allows you to program it.

Which floor covering for a heated floor?

The floor coverings that best accept and diffuse heat are tiles, waxed concrete or natural stone. There is no risk of deformation. They are therefore to be preferred.

However, carpeting, solid wood floors and PVC should be avoided because they are less resistant to heat. Examples: PVC can melt; carpeting insulates the floors which implies to increase the heating more; massive packages can deform.

Discover the floor coverings available at Sedpa that are compatible with underfloor heating.

For more information contact us!