Written by
01 September 2024
•
11 min read
Heating and cooling systems are necessities for every home and underfloor heating is fast becoming an integral component offering even heat distribution and energy efficiency. However, before embracing underfloor heating, one must first decide whether electric or water underfloor heating is best for your house and there is much to consider, from the complexity of the installation to the system’s efficiency.
Electric underfloor heating, often referred to as electric floor heating, is a heating system that uses electric heating elements installed beneath the floor surface to warm a room. This system provides a comfortable and evenly distributed heat from the ground up, making it a popular choice for new builds and renovations.
Electric underfloor heating uses electrical resistance to generate heat, radiating upwards through the floor to warm the room. Several elements are needed to make this system work:
Electric underfloor heating is best suited for smaller rooms and renovations. It offers quick warmth and ease of installation with minimal impact on floor height. It is ideal for spaces where rapid heating and precise temperature control are needed, though it may be less economical for large areas due to higher operating costs.
Underfloor water heating, also known as hydronic underfloor heating, is a system that uses warm water circulated through a network of pipes laid beneath the floor to heat a space. This type of heating is particularly energy-efficient and provides consistent, even warmth across the room.
Water underfloor heating works with three different components:
Water underfloor heating, ideal for new builds, large spaces, and high-performance homes in New Zealand, offers efficient and even heat distribution while pairing well with renewable energy sources. Although it involves a higher initial cost and complex installation, it provides long-term cost savings, enhanced comfort, and aesthetic flexibility for homeowners prioritising sustainability and consistent warmth.
Underfloor heating provides an efficient and comfortable way to heat your home, with options ranging from electric to water-based systems. Installation generally takes two to three days, depending on the system's complexity and the heated area's size. It's important to understand the general gist of the installation process for each type of system, as both electric and water-based underfloor heating have distinct requirements and benefits, influencing the time, cost, and overall suitability for your project.
Electric underfloor heating is installed by laying heating cables or pre-fabricated mats beneath the floor, which connect to the mains electricity supply. This process is usually quick and less disruptive, making it ideal for new construction and retrofitting. Proper insulation is crucial to ensure energy efficiency and prevent heat loss.
Water underfloor heating involves installing pipes beneath the floor, which circulate warm water from a boiler or heat pump. The system is typically installed during new builds or major renovations, as it requires access to the subfloor and is more complex than electric systems. Proper insulation is essential to maximise efficiency and prevent heat loss, making it a long-term, energy-efficient solution for heating large areas.
Related article: The complete guide to underfloor heating in New Zealand
The Warmer Kiwi Homes programme offers up to 90% funding for installing underfloor heating in eligible homes. To qualify, you must meet specific income and home condition criteria. Apply by visiting the Warmer Kiwi Homes website or contacting them directly, where you can submit your details and receive guidance on the next steps for securing the grant.
To make an informed decision, it's essential to understand the costs associated with electric and water underfloor heating systems. The running costs for these systems differ based on their energy sources and operation.
Electric underfloor heating often isn't a whole-house solution, as many people use this option for rooms with cold floors, like tiled bathrooms or kitchens with hardwood floors. Nevertheless, to estimate the running cost for your home, begin by calculating the power consumption. Multiply the power rating of the heating system by the heated area, then divide by 1,000 to convert it to kilowatts. Next, determine the daily cost by multiplying the power consumption by the hours the heating is used daily and your electricity rate. Finally, calculate the annual fee by multiplying the daily cost by the days you use the heating each year.
Assume:
Example equation:
Water underfloor heating, on the other hand, is typically used as a whole-house solution, providing consistent warmth across an entire home. A good way to estimate the monthly running cost for your utility bill is that it will be $1.00 - $1.50 per square metre during a winter month. Then multiply that by the square metres of your home.
Assume:
Example:
This cost covers underfloor heating for an entire house, compared to our figure used for electric underfloor heating, which only applies to the kitchen and bathroom.
Choosing between electric and water underfloor heating systems in New Zealand depends on various factors, including your home's size, energy sources, and heating needs. Electric underfloor heating is ideal for smaller rooms and renovations, offering quick installation and precise temperature control, but it may have higher running costs and environmental impact. On the other hand, water underfloor heating, while more costly and complex to install, provides efficient and even warmth over larger areas and pairs well with renewable energy sources, offering long-term savings and environmental benefits. Understanding these factors will help you determine the best system for your specific requirements and budget.
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