Underfloor heating
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contractors must address certain considerations for correct specification and optimum performance.
Insulation and thermal mass
Proper insulation and thermal mass are critical for maximising commercial efficiency. Adequate insulation, particularly beneath the UFH pipework, minimises heat losses into the subfloor and helps direct more heat upwards into the occupied space. In older buildings, insulation may need upgrading to avoid unnecessary heat loss. The thermal mass of the floor, typically provided by the screed, will also influence the system’s efficiency. Combining insulation with sufficient thermal mass optimises heat retention and distribution.
The rising role of UFH in commercial buildings
Radiant heating systems like underfloor heating (UFH) offer benefits beyond domestic use, proving effective in commercial buildings. Here, James Griffiths senior marketing manager for North-West Europe at Uponor explores UFH’s role in the future of commercial heating and what needs to be considered when designing and installing a system.
A
s the UK drives towards Net Zero carbon emissions, we need to consider how we heat our commercial and industrial buildings.
The UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) warns of missed opportunities in office retrofit strategies, citing 77% of UK office stock with EPC ratings below B, potentially unlettable by 2030. So clearly, urgent action is needed to meet a 59% energy consumption reduction by 2050. Underfloor heating systems, already popular in
homes, are emerging as energy efficient solutions for businesses. With tightening regulations and soaring energy prices, contractors are likely to see increasing demand for UFH specifications, particularly for commercial retrofit projects. Sustainability and energy efficiency are now top priorities across the building services sector. Updated building regulations in England and Scotland have tightened criteria for operational carbon emissions while rising energy costs emphasise the importance of efficiency. For contractors and heating installers, the growth of underfloor heating offers a significant opportunity. According to AMA Research, UFH is one of the fastest growing UK heating sectors and is expected to grow by just under 5% between 2022 and 2026.
The benefits of UHF systems for commercial buildings
When you consider these factors, the advantages of underfloor heating systems, particularly hydronic
26 May 2024
(water-based), which are suitable for larger areas, are becoming more compelling for commercial premises. By operating at a lower flow temperature than radiators, typically 35-40°C versus 70°C, underfloor heating can more easily meet the new emissions standards while offering high efficiency and compatibility with renewable heat sources like heat pumps, solar thermal, or even conventional boilers.
UFH’s scalability is another major advantage over
radiators for larger commercial buildings. As the heat is distributed evenly across the whole floor area, it avoids the uneven heating that can occur with radiators in large open-plan spaces. UFH can also integrate seamlessly with heat networks which serve multiple buildings from a centralised energy source.
Key considerations for UFH in commercial buildings While installing UFH is relatively straightforward,
Flooring material
Selecting the right flooring materials is key for efficient heat transfer into the space. Linoleum and vinyl are good options as their minimal thickness does not impede heat flow. However, care must be taken with carpet, which is often specified for sound absorption in large spaces. If the carpet and underlay provide too much insulation, this can prevent heat from reaching the occupied area. As a general guideline, the combined insulating value should not exceed 1.5 Tog, and ideally, only products promoted as ‘suitable for underfloor heating’ should be specified.
Height of installation
Floor heights can also challenge retrofitting. Low-profile UFH systems are designed for refurbishment, overcoming floor-to-ceiling height impacts. For example, Uponor’s Minitec range only requires a 15mm increase in floor height while providing good thermal mass from its thin screed layer, avoiding excessive floor build-ups or disruptive excavations. This makes it ideal for renovating premises with height constraints like offices or retail units.
Tapping into the benefits of UFH for commercial environments
Underfloor heating offers significant advantages for commercial and industrial properties. It provides lower operational costs through high efficiency and the ability to zone heating to just occupied areas, reducing energy waste. Combined with quiet operation, ideal for noise-sensitive environments like offices, it ensures consistent occupant comfort and productivity. As we transition towards lower carbon heating, underfloor heating offers an excellent futureproof solution for commercial buildings and a growing market opportunity for contractors and installers. However, correct product selection and system design are key to optimising performance. By staying informed about the latest UFH technology, developments and innovations, contractors and installers can capitalise on this growing market.
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