Comment
Underfloor heating is the solution to provide affordable warmth for today and the future. As well as being up to 15-40% more efficient than an equivalent radiator
system, once in place, a well-designed system will be able to run at the most efficient settings, further reducing bills and environmental impact. Underfloor heating systems can also be fully zoned, ticking a crucial regulatory box and minimising energy wastage. Each zone can be carefully controlled individually from a central thermostat or smartphone app.
MINIMAL MAINTENANCE AND COMBATS MOULD Typically, traditional radiators require an annual check for air in the system/ bleeding, and sometimes more invasive inhibitor dosing is needed – plus, they may need to be entirely replaced every 25 years. In stark contrast, underfloor heating systems require very little maintenance
and can last three times longer, with most offering at least a 75-year guarantee, providing additional reassurance that it will likely outlive the lifetime of the building. Good quality underfloor heating pipe, made from superior quality, five-layer, sustainable PERT (polyethylene of raised temperature resistance), can also be melted down safely and reused, offering a sustainable solution throughout the product’s life cycle. Underfloor heating also combats mould thanks to the large expanse of heat
radiating from the whole floor surface, warming surfaces and eliminating cold spots in a room where mould could develop.
SUPPORTS SAFETY, HEALTH AND WELL-BEING One important aspect when incorporating health and well-being into the design of a property is air quality, notably to support those who suffer from allergies and asthma. While traditional radiator systems encourage allergens and dust to circulate into the air – which can exacerbate respiratory conditions – underfloor heating reduces the movement of these problematic particles, making it one of the healthiest ways to heat a building. In fact, the International WELL Building Institute credits radiant heating technologies as the best way of heating for comfort. Underfloor heating also
promotes a safe environment due to having no hard edges and no scalding surfaces, creating safer indoor environments for children, as well as elderly and vulnerable tenants.
COMPLETE DESIGN FREEDOM Every inch counts within a property, particularly when space is at a premium. Underfloor heating is the perfect space-saving solution, as it frees up wall space and provides complete freedom for interior layouts and allows for the specification of extra-large windows, which let more light in, further increasing well-being. Tis aspect is especially important when planning a home for those
with additional needs. In addition, as the radiant heating system is fully concealed under the floor, walls are kept free to accommodate equipment or additional entrances, which may be vital for the occupant to move around the space, which can increase their safety and overall sense of well-being when living in the property.
Joanna Crown is marketing director at WMS and BEAMA Underfloor Heating group chair
www.housingmmonline.co.uk | HMMApril/May 2023 | 19
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36
