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How Does Underfloor Heating Work?


Underfloor heating, or UFH, utilises radiant heat technology. An efficient approach which warms people and objects from the ground up. This can be up to 30% more efficient when compared to traditional radiators.

The two different types of UFH – wet (hydronic) and electric. A wet system carries hot water through pipes to distribute heat across the room. An electric system utilises electric mats or cables, connected to your mains electricity supply.

The best solution for your home may vary depending on your project. Get in contact with our knowledgeable staff and let us guide you through the process.

Radiant Heat

The entire floor surface is uniformly heated. Even and efficient distribution of warmth, resulting in a comfortable and consistent level of heat.

diagram showing air temperature in a home using underfloor heating

Convection Heat

Radiators heat specific areas within a space. This leads to an uneven distribution of warmth. The temperatures throughout the room vary as a result.

diagram showing air temperature an circulation in a home using radiators

Main Benefits of Underfloor Heating


UFH offers a range of compelling benefits that make it an ideal choice for all home types.
Underfloor heating ensures even heat distribution throughout a room, minimises heat loss and maximises comfort. It is a cost-effective and eco-friendly option. At VPS we provide top-quality underfloor heating solutions tailored to your needs. Create a warm and cosy environment in your home.

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Creating a custom underfloor heating system is important to ensure efficiency when installed.

Our design experts are dedicated to creating bespoke solutions that integrate with the unique aspects of your space. We analyse various factors such as room size, insulation, and flooring materials. Our team then tailors the underfloor heating design to match your needs.

Our experienced design engineers use CAD software to produce accurate layouts. Heat outputs are calculated based on different floor surface materials and flow rates. With every order, you receive a detailed design including pipe layout and various heat calculations.

underfloor heating (UFH) design engineering creating a pipe layout on a computer

Why choose VPS?

UK Based

Located just outside of Glasgow, our warehouse is well-stocked with a wide array of products & components. This eliminates waiting times, allowing you to complete your projects on schedule. Next-day delivery is available.

Quality Products

We stock and supply high-quality brands and materials. Due to solid ties with our suppliers, we do so at competitive prices.

Underfloor Heating FAQ’s

We’ve answered a few common questions. If you need some advice give us a call.

The cost of materials can vary based on several factors. Including, the type of system (water-based or electric), the size, the quality of materials, and installation requirements. Here’s a general overview of the costs of UFH materials:

Water UFH:

Pipe: Cost will vary depending on the size of the installation and the quality of the pipe used.
Manifolds: Manifolds are required to distribute the heat through pipes. The cost of manifolds can vary based on the number of zones and quality.
Pump and mixing Valves: These components are essential and can vary in cost based on brand. This is key to the efficient operation of the system. At VPS we only sell premium products using Grundfos pumps and ESBE mixing valves
Thermostats: Costs vary depending on the number of zones being controlled.

There are wide variations in the prices charged by different merchants. Researching both quality and price is crucial to obtaining a well-rounded perspective.

  1. Electric UFH:

Mats or Cables: The primary component is the cable or mat. The cost of these materials depends on the brand, quality, and coverage. Higher-quality, more efficient cables or mats may be more expensive.
Thermostat: You’ll need a thermostat to control the electric system. This can vary in price depending on the features and brand.
Floor Insulation: Installing insulation beneath the underfloor heating cables or mats is necessary to improve efficiency and reduce heat loss. The cost of insulation materials will depend on the type and thickness required.
Other Accessories: You may need additional materials. Adhesive, adhesive tape, and floor sensors for the thermostat.

To get an accurate estimate for your specific project, it’s advisable to consult with a specialist. At VPS we help you assess your needs and provide a detailed cost estimate. We consider your unique requirements and suggest the best materials for your system. It is also important to research the cost of installing underfloor heating.

UFH can contribute to improved air quality. Traditional radiator systems can distribute dust and allergens throughout a room. UFH operates without the need for air movement. This can have several positive effects on indoor air quality:

Reduced Airborne Particles: The system does not rely on air circulation to distribute heat. This means they don’t stir up dust or other airborne particles. This is beneficial for those with breathing conditions or allergies.
Minimized Allergen Distribution: Forced-air systems can distribute allergens like dust mites, pollen, and pet hair. Our systems don’t rely on air movement, minimising the distribution of these allergens, leading to cleaner air.
Decreased Mould Growth: Underfloor heating can help maintain more even temperatures throughout a room. This reduces cold spots where condensation can occur. A heated underfloor can contribute to lower humidity levels and decreased potential for mould growth.

It is important to note that other factors in the indoor environment play a role. Regular cleaning, and proper ventilation, can complement the positive effects of underfloor heating system on air quality.

To start selecting furniture, it’s important to consider materials and designs that work well with the UFH system. Here are some tips:

Choose Furniture with Legs: Furniture with legs allows heat to circulate, preventing the obstruction of the system.
Opt for Good Heat Conductors: Generally, materials that conduct heat well, such as wood or metal, are suited to a heated underfloor. These materials help distribute the warmth across the room.
Avoid using flat based furniture: Flat-based regard furniture will prevent heat distribution from your floor. This is important in regard to electric underfloor heating and could cause the elements in the mat to overheat. If you keep some flat-based furniture, design around these items.
Use Rugs Wisely: If you want to use rugs, choose lighter materials. Rugs with a low tog rating allow heat to pass through. Avoid using thick, heavy rugs that may trap heat.
Monitor Temperature Settings: Be mindful of the temperature of your UFH. If the temperature is high, it can affect the comfort of sitting on furniture directly above the elements.

By applying these elements you can ensure that your furniture complements your system. This will improve the comfort and efficiency in your home.

UFH offers several advantages, including:

Enhanced Comfort: UFH provides a uniform and consistent heat distribution throughout the room. This eliminates cold spots and drafts though radiant heat from the floor. This creates a warm and comfortable environment at floor level, where people spend most of their time.

Energy Efficiency: Underfloor Heating systems operate at lower temperatures compared to radiators. This results in reduced energy consumption and lower running costs. This makes UFH an eco-friendly solution with lower carbon emissions.

Improved Aesthetics: heated flooring eliminates the need for bulky radiators, creating a clutter-free living space. This enhances the overall aesthetics of the room and provides more freedom in furniture placement.

Health Benefits: A heated underfloor can promote better air circulation. This is beneficial for those with allergies or breathing conditions.

Suitable for Various Floor Types: UFH can be installed under a wide range of floor coverings. This includes tiles, wood, laminate, and carpet. This makes it adaptable to different room designs and personal preferences.

When choosing UFH it is essential to consider various factors. Begin by choosing a system that aligns with your project. Following this, tailor the installation to meet your specific requirements. Consider the desired level of control and system efficiency. Our team at VPS Underfloor Heating is available to provide expert advice and assistance.

VPS stocks a range of underfloor heating thermostats. For multi-zone kits, it is common to have a thermostat for each zone. The thermostat records the temperature in area sending a signal to the rest of the system.

At VPS we have the full range of Heatmiser and Salus controls.

There is a choice of wireless or wired thermostats. Some choice in colours. There are options for Wi-Fi controls. This allows your system to be controlled via a smartphone, tablet or PC. They can even be made to work using Alexa or the Google Home app.