Energy Efficient Under Floor Heating Systems

The use of under floor heating typically allows room temperatures to be reduced by 1°-2°C when compared with radiators, while still providing the same level of comfort. Each 1°C reduction in room temperature reduces fuel consumption by 6%. This means it is cheaper to run and gives the house a reduced carbon footprint.

As underfloor central heating is the enabler to maximise the use of low or zero carbon technologies for heat generation such as air source heat pumps or geothermal systems, it is key to sustainable indoor environments.

At Polypipe we manufacture the most complete range of floor heating systems for every application. Solid floor systems provide 'thermal mass' solutions and incorporate our unique floor panel, which enhances performance and requires less screed material than other systems.

The patented Overlay system provides a unique retro fit underfloor system, unlocking for the first time the massive potential for energy efficient under floor central heating in existing dwellings.

Eu-ray Research Report

Results from a recent study show that underfloor central heating is more energy-efficient than radiator heating using 5% less energy than radiators. However, if a building uses a heat pump, instead of a boiler, the energy saving capability of underfloor central heating becomes much greater. Used in association with an air source heat pump, underfloor heating cuts energy consumption by 20%. Substitute a ground source heat pump and the savings jump to 30%.

(Energy performance calculations based on CEN standards developed for the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), European Association for Surface Heating and Cooling (Eu-ray), 2007)