NOT JUST HOT AIR
Nigel Sanger, Technical Manager at JG Speedfit, explains why installers should embrace UFH systems and encourage more people to consider an alternative to traditional heating methods.
Over the last five years there has been a steady growth for underfloor heating (UFH) installations. With continued advances in technology, UFH is becoming easier to install and an increasingly viable and affordable option for many homeowners and house builders.
DEBUNKING MYTHS When discussing UFH there are two main concerns for both the end-user and installer: cost and ease of installation. Many homeowners feel that installing UFH systems is a difficult process, which will have a really big impact on their bank balance, but this isn’t the case.
While the initial outlay of UFH is slightly higher in price than traditional radiator heating concepts, the benefits show that it is a long-term investment worth paying for. The return on investment goes above and beyond the installation fee, with improved heat distribution, lower energy costs and added value upon resale.
The other concern - that UFH is difficult to install – is also a myth. UFH allows pipework to be installed, filled and tested in one operation, while the controls are easy to set up. As there are no moving parts with UFH, and the pressure testing of pipes is made before installation, there is a low need for maintenance.
44 | UNDERFLOOR HEATING
ENERGY-EFFICIENT Once an UFH system is installed, the end user can start to reap the benefits of having an energy-efficient heating system in their home. With UFH, the long-term running costs are lower than radiator-based systems meaning significant savings are achieved. This is due to an UFH system being able to work with low water temperatures, making it particularly suited for condensing boilers and heat pumps, resulting in reduced energy consumption and lower heating costs.
Additionally, properly designed UFH solutions, such as the JG Speedfit Underfloor, incorporate multiple heating zones, which allows the end-user to control more than one system in the house. This results in a tailored heating solution, allowing different rooms to be heated at various temperatures to ensure rooms aren’t unnecessarily heated.
ADDING VALUE UFH systems can be installed into both new-build properties and retrofitted to older homes, meaning there is a wide range of buildings that can have a system installed. Arguably the biggest and most lucrative reason UFH should be considered is the added value it brings.
Homes with UFH command a higher resale than homes with standard radiators thanks to the comfort it adds and the lower running costs. UFH is also unobtrusive and saves significant space – with most homes saving up to 15% of floor and wall space – each room can be utilised, giving end users more freedom in the design of their interiors.
UFH generally brings more comfort to the end user as the heat can be distributed to suitable preferences. With UFH, the warm air starts on the floor and rises making it more comfortable to end users and ensures the warm air isn’t wasted. Additionally, the silent-running properties of UFH means the end user experiences reduced noise, providing added comfort.
As more people consider UFH, it is important that installers and merchants understand the benefits of the various systems. While price may be a difficult hurdle to overcome, the overall benefits show that the initial cost is simply an investment to long- term significant gain. As with many products, there are some better than others and it is important to ensure the system installed is reliable and, more importantly, future-proof.
speedfitufh.co.uk www.tomorrowscontractfloors.com
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