Electric Underfloor Heating: Efficiency for your Home

Electric Underfloor Heating: Efficiency for your Home

In the search for more efficient and comfortable air conditioning solutions, underfloor heating has positioned itself as one of the most attractive alternatives on the market. This system, which transforms the floor of your home into a uniform heat-emitting surface, is revolutionising the way we understand domestic heating.

In this complete article, you will find out everything you need to know about electric underfloor heating systems, with a special focus on the solutions available from Deckplanet.

What is underfloor heating?

Underfloor heating is an air-conditioning system that works by installing a network of pipes or electric cables under the floor that emit heat evenly over the entire surface. Unlike traditional heating systems, underfloor heating uses the physical principle that heat rises naturally, first warming the feet and progressively rising to the ceiling.

There are two main types of underfloor heating:

Electric underfloor heating

This system uses cables or electric heating mats which, on receiving current, generate heat through the Joule effect. It is especially recommended for renovations or installations in specific spaces such as bathrooms or kitchens, due to its lower installation height and ease of assembly.

The electric grids available from Deckplanet stand out for their thin thickness, which minimises floor lifting during installation, and their fast thermal response, ideal for spaces that require immediate heating.

Hydraulic underfloor heating

It works by means of a network of pipes through which hot water circulates, usually heated by a boiler or heat pump. This system is more suitable for new constructions or complete refurbishments, as it requires a greater installation height, but offers excellent results in terms of energy efficiency, especially in combination with renewable energies.

Advantages of underfloor heating:
Why choose it?

1. Superior thermal comfort

Underfloor heating provides an even distribution of heat from the floor upwards, avoiding the unpleasant draughts that occur with conventional systems. This natural heat distribution creates an ideal thermal sensation for the human body: warm feet and a cool head.

2. Exceptional energy efficiency

One of the main advantages that has popularised this system is its remarkable energy efficiency:

• Lower working temperatureWhile conventional radiators need to heat water up to 70-80°C, underfloor heating works with water at 35-45°C (in hydraulic systems) or with optimised electricity consumption (in electric systems).
• Energy savingThis difference translates into savings of between 15% and 30% on the annual energy bill.
• Optimal heat distributionHeating evenly over the entire surface reduces the need to raise the temperature to achieve comfort.

Deckplanet's thermal netting, foil and blanket systems are specifically designed to maximise this efficiency, with technologies that enable optimum heat distribution with minimum energy consumption.

3. Aesthetics and use of space

The system is completely hidden under the flooring, eliminating unsightly radiators or air conditioning units. This not only improves the aesthetics of the home but also frees up useful space in the rooms, allowing you to make the most of every corner without restrictions.

4. Improving indoor air quality

In contrast to air systems, underfloor heating does not generate dust and dust mite circulation, which is particularly beneficial for people with allergies or respiratory problems. In addition, the absence of draughts reduces the feeling of dryness in the mucous membranes.

5. Compatibility with renewable energies

Underfloor heating systems, especially hydronic systems, are ideal for combination with renewable energies such as:

• Aerothermal
• Solar thermal energy
• Geothermal

This compatibility multiplies energy savings and drastically reduces the carbon footprint of the home, in line with the increasingly important sustainability objectives of today's society.

Electric Underfloor Heating: Efficiency for your Home

Underfloor heating installation: Step by step

The installation of an underfloor heating system is a process that must be carried out with precision to ensure its correct operation. Although we recommend qualified professionals, it is important to know the stages of the process:

For electric underfloor heating (mesh, foil or thermal blankets):

1. Surface preparationCleaning and levelling of the subfloor.
2. Installation of the insulation layerFundamental to avoid heat loss downwards.
3. Laying of the mesh, foil or electric blanketDistribution: Evenly distributing it according to the previous design.
4. Electrical connectionPerformed by a certified electrician.
5. Installation of the temperature sensor: Strategically positioned to correctly measure the temperature of the ground.
6. Placing the self-levelling mortarA thin layer that protects the heating elements.
7. Installation of the final flooringCompatible with the chosen system.
8. Thermostat settings: Adjustment of the operating parameters.

The heating mats by Deckplanet stand out for their ease of installation thanks to their design in adhesive mesh format that adapts perfectly to the surface.

The radiant foils are ideal for installation under laminate or parquet, with a minimum thickness that barely raises the floor level.

The thermal blanketsThey offer a versatile solution with excellent heat distribution.

Estimated time and considerations

For a standard dwelling:

• Preparation and installation2-4 days depending on the surface
• Drying of the mortar: 7-14 days
• Total time to start-upApproximately 2-3 weeks

It is important to consider that electric underfloor heating has a significantly shorter installation time than hydronic underfloor heating, which can be a decisive factor in time-sensitive renovations.

Underfloor heating price per square metre

The cost of an underfloor heating system varies depending on various factors, price ranges for electric systems on the market are around 30-50 €/m² (material).

To these costs must be added:

• Isolation
• Thermostats
• Labour

Factors influencing the final cost

• Area to be coveredThe larger the surface area, the lower the price per square metre.
• Complexity of installation: Irregular spaces require more work.
• Type of final finishSome pavements require special considerations.
• Insulation needsFundamental on ground floors or in poorly insulated spaces.

Value for money of Deckplanet products

Deckplanet's solutions stand out for offering excellent value for money, with guaranteed systems that combine top quality materials with efficient technologies.

The initial investment is quickly amortised thanks to the energy savings provided by these systems.

Electric vs. hydraulic underfloor heating: Which one to choose?

The choice between one system or the other will depend on several factors:

Electric underfloor heating

Advantages:

• Easier and faster installationEspecially Deckplanet screens and foils, designed to facilitate the process.
• Lower installation heightIt barely raises the level of the existing ground.
• Individualised control per room: Allows to heat only the areas in use.
• Lower initial investmentThe installation cost is lower.
• Ideal for partial renovationsPerfect for updating specific spaces such as bathrooms or kitchens.

Considerations:

• Higher long-term operating cost (depends on electricity prices).
• It is not as efficient on large surfaces as the hydraulic system.

Hydraulic underfloor heating

Advantages:

• Increased energy efficiency in large surfaces
• Lower long-term operating costs
• Optimal compatibility with renewable energy systems
• Longer service life

Considerations:

• Increased complexity and installation time
• Increased height requirement (may be a problem in refurbishment)
• Higher initial investment

Recommendation according to specific needs

If you are looking for a solution for:

• Partial alterations or dwellings with limited heightDeckplanet's electric screens or foils are your best choice.
• New constructions or complete refurbishmentsHydraulics can be more cost-effective in the long run.
• Spaces of intermittent use (such as second homes): The electric system offers advantages due to its fast thermal response.

Is underfloor heating efficient?

Efficiency is one of the main advantages of underfloor heating systems, especially compared to traditional systems:

Energy efficiency analysis

Underfloor heating systems show superior efficiency for several reasons:

1. Reduced working temperatureOperates at lower temperatures than conventional systems.
2. Uniform heat distributionEliminates cold spots and reduces losses.
3. Controlled thermal inertia: Keeps the temperature stable with lower consumption.

Underfloor heating maintenance: Ensuring its durability

One of the great advantages of underfloor heating systems is their low maintenance:

Frequency and type of maintenance required

For electrical systems such as those of Deckplanet:

• Annual reviewChecking the correct functioning of the thermostat and connections.
• Every 5 years: Verification of the electrical resistance of the system.

Tips for prolonging service life

1. Avoid deep boreholes in the groundTo avoid damaging the heating elements.
2. Programming soft startsEspecially after long periods of non-use.
3. Use quality thermostatsDeckplanet systems: Those included with Deckplanet systems allow for optimal management.
4. Regulating the temperature appropriatelyAvoid sudden changes that strain the system.

Discover our range of electric underfloor heating systems

Conclusion: The ultimate solution for your home

Underfloor heating represents an investment in comfort and efficiency that completely transforms the living experience of a home.

Its ability to provide a natural, enveloping warmth, combined with energy savings and freeing up space, makes it an increasingly popular solution.

Deckplanet's netting, foil and thermal blanket systems offer a quality solution, with tested and guaranteed products that adapt to different needs and budgets.

Their installation, especially in the case of electrical systems, is relatively simple and represents a substantial improvement in the value and comfort of any home.

If you are considering upgrading the air conditioning of your home, business or office, underfloor heating represents a smart investment that will pay for itself over time through energy savings and increased property value.

Deckplanet's specific products guarantee you a long-lasting, efficient solution tailored to your specific needs.

Electric Underfloor Heating: Efficiency for your Home

Ready to transform your home?

Explore the full range of underfloor heating solutions at Deckplanet and discover how you can improve the comfort and efficiency of your home. Our experts can advise you on the most suitable system for your specific needs, helping you to get the maximum performance with the minimum investment.