Why UFH? Statistics show that the average UK inhabitant now spends at least 22 out of every 24 hours in an artificial climate. Under-floor heating is not a new concept. It was used by the Romans who constructed their villas with voids (hypoducts) through which the air heated by a wood fire passed through the structure. Electric under-floor heating was tried out in the 1960's. However, it was a disaster. The insulation and electro cables were poor and the cost of using it was prohibitive – even on Economy 7. Yet, three decades later, things have moved on with today's modern building standards. The new part "L" directives in the building regulations have dramatically changed the heat requirement for new buildings. Under-floor heating, compared to a conventional radiator system, is about 30% cheaper to run. Radiators typically require 75°–80° from a boiler, whereas under-floor heating requires 35° – 45°. Under-floor heating warms the entire property evenly, heating the fabric of the building and bathing the occupants and its contents in a gentle warmth, up to a height of 2 metres. Unlike conventional central heating where the majority of heat is convected air which rises making the ceiling one of the warmest places in the room. There are numerous benefits for having under-floor heating installed:
- Hygiene – very little convection current is generated, so little or no dust is circulated, much to the relief of asthma sufferers. Dust mites and silver fish are vanquished as the moisture content becomes too low to support them.
- The elimination of radiators frees up wall space for furniture and full-length curtains. The radiated heat from the floor gives an even temperature throughout. It is kind on furniture and pictures.
- It is cost-effective – saving 20–40% on central heating systems.
- Under-floor heating systems require less maintenance than conventional heating systems.
- In public buildings, the absence of visible heat emitters eliminates the risk of damage due to accident or vandalism.
- Unlike radiators, under-floor heating systems do not need to be manually bled.
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