Underfloor heating is a great way to heat your home in cheaper, more efficient ways. However, nothing is perfect. The question of whether underfloor heating is repairable may dawn upon many buyers’ minds when installing it. It’s enough to worry about whether underfloor heating is expensive to run, which it isn’t. Therefore, this article will explore how you can repair underfloor heating and why there is nothing to worry about.
Here is what you will find out about how to repair underfloor heating:
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Common Issues with Underfloor Heating
There are many reasons as to why you may have an issue with your underfloor heating system. In fact, we even have an article how why your underfloor heating may not be working. However, if you missed out on it, then do not worry, because here is what you need to know about common underfloor heating problems:
- Problems with the pipes: This is one of the most common issues with underfloor heating, especially if it is an hydronic system. As it is linked to the boiler, it can lead to blockages or blocked air. Finding these issues early will save more expense in the long run, and you can attempt to resolve it yourself rather than contacting a professional.
- Blockages: Other causes of blockages in your underfloor heating system is through the flue vent that leads to the exterior area of your house. Leaves, twigs, and other debris are the likeliest culprits.
1. How to Repair Electric Underfloor Heating
To start, you need to know the difference between electric and water underfloor heating. Hydronic underfloor heating is powered by water and needs time to warm up before it can begin heating your flooring. On the other hand, electric underfloor heating is simplistic and merely requires a flick of a switch to activate. To help regulate your heating, using a thermostat paired with your underfloor heating system will allow you track your energy usage and how to save more with an efficient system in place.
This is the tricky part: it is easy to detract from the technicality of installing underfloor heating, and why it may be easier to have a professional install it for you instead.
2. Issues With Thermostats and Sensor Probes
We checked with our customers for any issues regarding the installation of underfloor heating. In general, the problems refer to the thermostats and/or sensor probes.
Not to worry because these issues are easy to fix. Thermostats are easily replaceable, whereas sensor probes require more thought and attention. This is why two sensor probes are specifically required during the installation process so that there is a spare if the other has a fault. You need to ensure you have a way of measuring the floor temperature; otherwise, results will not be as accurate. Floor temperatures should be no more than 27°C.
You need a good condition sensor probes to prevent the floor from overheating. Check out our article on checking the regulation of your underfloor heating thermostats too and how this may help you when you come to repair underfloor heating.
3. Installation Damage
One of the most common issues with underfloor heating is for it to develop a fault during its installation. If it does happen, you can contact your supplier to help with a replacement system. Check the ‘small print’ on your product if you have issues relating to this.
Alternatively, we also offer underfloor heating repair kits and kit builders, which will help with common issues related to underfloor heating, from crimps, to heat shrink sleeves and damaged cables.
4. Concerns regarding cable damage from indoor elements
The most important concern about your underfloor heating is if a heating cable gets damaged, especially when it is buried under your flooring, tiles, or other compounds. Ensure that the correct procedures and measures are made to prevent this issue from occurring during the recommended insulation methods.
When you repair underfloor heating, the likeliest cause of a cable getting damaged is during the installation. This is caused by something as simple as a heavy item falling on it or a small cut that has damaged the cable. Being unaware of this issue can lead to it leaking earth which is a slow development and will trip the RCD, and the heating system will not get warm. Fortunately, specialists are available to help, and you can find help here.
If you have thermal cameras situated around your home, they will detect leakage from your heating cables, to an area as small as a coin. Depending on your style of flooring, it is possible to safely remove the area of damage to repair the cable, for example, tile flooring.
5. Cost of Repair
The cost to repair underfloor heating is variable. Although many companies charge between £300-£500, it is important to check on what offers they have. This handy guide gives you a list of ways on how much it can cost a professional to repair underfloor heating. For assistance, get in touch with our team at info@underfloorheatingtradesupplies.co.uk.
Guaranteed underfloor heating repairs with us
In answer to our question from at the beginning of this blog, it is easily possible to repair your underfloor heating without worrying about too much expense or disruption.
With the right professional help, you can get your electric underfloor heating faults fixed and ready to go again in no time at all.
FAQs
Can underfloor heating systems be repaired?
Yes, you can repair underfloor heating systems. This can usually be done without too much expense or disruption. Our helpful guide can give you a list of ideas and instructions on how to repair underfloor heating.
Is underfloor heating hard to fix?
Underfloor heating systems are usually made the same way. A break in the cables or wiring of the heating mats can be resolved using repair kits. Each repair kit traditionally can fix one break with the underfloor heating mat.
Can you repair underfloor heating pipes?
Once you have narrowed down where the leak is coming from within your underfloor heating pipes (usually a small hole), then you can cut the pipe, de-oval it, and repair it using a coupler.
What are common problems with underfloor heating?
Problems with the pipes.
Blockages.
Trapped air.
Leaks.
Incompatible top layer of flooring.
Screed.
Incorrect setup.
Sources
Underfloor Heating Trade Supplies. (n.d.). Thermostats. [Accessed 03/03/23] Retrieved from: https://www.underfloorheatingtradesupplies.co.uk/underfloor-heating/heating-controls/thermostats
MyJobQuote. (n.d.). Underfloor Heating Costs in 2022. [Accessed 03/03/23] Retrieved from: https://www.myjobquote.co.uk/costs/underfloor-heating
Underfloor Heating Trade Supplies. (n.d.). Kit Builder. [accessed 03/03/23] Retrieved from: https://www.underfloorheatingtradesupplies.co.uk/kit-builder