Underfloor heating has become more and more popular in recent years, being hailed as a more eco-friendly and cost-effective way to heat homes. But many people are unaware of the different types of systems that are available. If you need more information on whether to choose electric or water underfloor heating, this is the guide for you. Both systems are extremely effective at heating small and large spaces, but they also have their pros and cons that you need to keep in mind.
In this guide, we are going to discuss whether electric or water underfloor heating suit you best.
Electric or water underfloor heating?
The below table displays the core qualities of electric underfloor heating and water underfloor heating to help you to see the bigger picture. Generally, electric underfloor heating is more expensive to install and run, but it is very convenient for retrofitting to existing properties. Whereas wet underfloor heating is cheaper to fit out and run but can prove difficult and inconvenient to install.
| Water | Electric | |
| Suitable projects | Best for large spaces and new builds | Best for renovations and retrofitting |
| How it works | Warm water is distributed across a network of pipes beneath the floor | A thin heating wire is installed underneath the floor and releases heat when turned on |
| Installation costs | Avg. £40 per square metre, excluding fitting charges | Avg. £50 per square meter, excluding fitting charges |
| Running costs | £80 p/a in a 10m2 room | £334 p/a in a 10m2 room |
Read more: How much does underfloor heating cost?
Electric VS Wet Underfloor Heating Running Costs
The average cost per year to heat a 30m2 room with electric underfloor heating is £1,152. The average cost per year to heat a 30m2 room with water underfloor heating is £239. There is a substantial difference between the two types of systems
Water underfloor heating is a lot more affordable than electric underfloor heating, but it can be more difficult to install wet underfloor heating in existing buildings or smaller spaces, as it requires a lot more labour.
How do they work?
Before you pull the trigger on an underfloor heating installation, you might want to find out how they actually work.
Both Systems:
- Both systems are installed in ‘zones’, making it easier to control the heat in different parts of a building or house
- They can both be controlled by a thermostat or underfloor heating controller
- Both are installed underneath the floor
Electric – Electric underfloor heating consists of a thin heating wire, or element, installed under the floor level. Once the system is turned on, the wire will heat up. Gradually, this releases radiant heat from the floor into the space above.
Read more: The ultimate electric underfloor heating guide
Water – Pipes are installed under the floor level, usually in the structural sub-floor. This can cause the flooring to be raised slightly. Warm water is heated by the mechanics of the system and is channelled throughout the pipes, heating the floor above.
Read more: The Ultimate Underfloor Heating Guide
Which system is most suitable for my home?
Electric underfloor heating is most suitable when you have a smaller space to work with, or if you are installing in an existing property. It works best in smaller rooms and can be installed as a standalone system or an add-on to a wet system. It is great for use in bathrooms and kitchens as it is completely waterproof.
Wet underfloor heating is cheaper to run, so is more suitable for larger projects. New builds make the perfect project for water systems as they can be installed as part of the construction. There are low-profile wet systems available which are suitable for retrofitting, but installation generally requires a bit more work than electric systems.
Pros and cons
Underfloor heating is a great way to improve the comfort of your home and can save you money on your energy bills. But as with most things, there are pros and cons to both electric and wet underfloor systems. Here’s a quick rundown of each type to help you decide which system is right for your home.
Electric Pros
- Great for utilising solar panel systems or similar
- Good for smaller spaces
- Can be installed without too much disruption
- Can be installed with minimal DIY experience
Electric Cons
- Loses heat faster
- Is more expensive to run
Water Pros
- Can be installed in new builds or existing properties
- More substantial heat output, stays warm for longer
- Better heat retention
- Different heat sources can be utilised, such as heat pumps or renewable energy sources
Water Cons
- Can be trickier to install
- Not always possible to install in existing properties
Which will you choose?
So, which underfloor heating system should you choose? The answer largely depends on your personal preferences and budget. If you want a quick and easy installation with low running costs, then electric underfloor heating is probably the best option for you. However, if you’re looking for a more luxurious finish that can also be used to heat water, then wet underfloor heating may be the better choice. Let us know which system you decide to go with – we’d love to hear about your experiences!