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Retrofitting residential
W
ith the price of fuel remaining staggeringly high, improving the energy efficiency of homes to reduce the cost of heating is
high on the agenda for us all. Underfloor heating (UFH) systems are known to cost less to run than radiators, so it is no surprise that UFH installations in existing homes are in demand. As the market for underfloor heating in existing
properties grows, the variety of available systems has also expanded, making the specification and retrofit installation straightforward. There are now a diverse range of solutions, including systems that can be laid on top of the existing floor, that are available depending on the characteristics of the building and the level of renovation being undertaken.
Underfloor heating for energy efficiency
For both domestic and non-domestic renovation projects, where the wet heating system is being entirely replaced, Part L of the Building Regulations in England and Wales requires a maximum flow temperature of 55ºC. Similarly in Scotland, the compliance guidance states a maximum temperature of 50ºC. Low carbon energy sources, such as heat pumps and solar thermal systems are currently the best fit for replacing traditional boilers and in these situations, an underfloor heating system becomes one of the most practical options for effectively heating the building.
UNDERFLOOR HEATING
heating with UFH
With a wider focus on lowering carbon emissions and energy remaining a significant cost for householders, improving the efficiency of existing homes has never been more important. Here, James Griffiths senior marketing manager for North-West Europe GF Building Flow Solutions (formally Uponor) looks at the role of underfloor heating systems and how these can be retrofitted in existing properties.
The far larger surface area of UFH systems in
comparison with traditional radiators means a lower flow temperature is possible, which in turn minimises the amount of energy required to heat the building. This not only makes UFH an ideal specification for renewable systems, but also for those using a traditional boiler system looking to lower their fuel bills. Furthermore, as the thermal mass of a screed-based UFH system absorbs, stores and releases heat, the amount of energy required to maintain the target room temperature is minimised.
Choosing the right system
Electric UFH, which operates via heating cables or mats, while may appear to be of lower cost and simpler to install, is less energy efficient and can have a number of hidden costs. For example, if you are considering electric heating in more than one area within a renovation you must ensure that the electrical system is capable of withstanding the additional electricity demand to avoid overloading the property’s electrical system. Hydronic (water) UFH systems, which circulate
hot water through pipes, often suit larger areas. When compared with traditional radiators, a lower flow temperature is more easily achievable. This makes them highly compatible with renewable and low carbon heat sources, such as solar thermal and heat pumps, as well as gas boilers. This in conjunction with today’s low profile systems for
both wet and dry application, which was once only achievable with electric UFH, now makes hydronic UFH suitable for almost any retrofit application. Installing a wet UFH system in some properties
is challenging due to the floor structure. In these situations, consider recommending a dry system that has an ultra-thin, close to floor design that can be installed over an existing floor, like the Uponor Siccus Mini underfloor heating system. Whether for a complete home renovation or a smaller zonal application like bathrooms and kitchens, the top surface can be laid immediately without having to factor in any screed drying times, which means the job can be completed quickly and easily with minimal mess. Plus, it is suitable for all flooring types including laminate, parquet, natural stone, tiles, vinyl and carpet. In cases where the retrofit must be completed in a tight timeframe, there are dry installation alternatives that offer a similarly small height build-up. In addition, lightweight systems are available that have been specifically designed for floor structures that have a low static weight- bearing capacity. In contrast, where a more significant renovation is being carried out and the existing floor is being completely removed, a system that is more typically used on new build projects can be utilised. This will often allow greater thicknesses of floor insulation and screed to be laid, maximising the efficiency and effectiveness of the UFH. An example of an effective floor construction is 65mm of screed laid over 65mm of insulation, ideally on a concrete subfloor. It is important to note that regardless of the
approach selected, a lower temperature system will only be effective if the correct level of floor, wall and roof insulation can be achieved to minimise heat losses, and this become an essential step for older properties.
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September 2024 35
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