The most economical way to run underfloor heating is to set it and leave it at a steady, consistent temperature (usually 18∘C 18∘𝐶 to 21∘C 21∘𝐶). Instead of turning the system on and off, keeping a low, constant base temperature prevents the system from overworking to heat a cold room.
The cheapest way to run underfloor heating (UFH) is by pairing a water-based "wet" system with a highly efficient heat pump or condensing boiler, paired with smart controls. Because wet UFH circulates water at significantly lower temperatures than radiators, it uses less energy to heat your home.
The Benefit of “Always On” Underfloor Heating
This has shown to be a more efficient underfloor heating methodology than turning the heating on once in the morning and evening. And it is certainly more efficient than having the heating on 24/7.
Electric underfloor heating systems can reach higher temperatures than hydronic (wet) systems but for both types of systems, a thermostat setting of between 21°C and 25°C is usually ideal.
It is a good idea to leave underfloor heating switched on constantly during the colder winter months in particular. By leaving the underfloor heating system turned on, better levels of efficiency and faster warm up times will result. Basically, your home will heat up to a comfortable temperature faster.
Electric underfloor heating is generally easier and cheaper to install, as it doesn't require the installation of a boiler or pipework. That said, high electricity costs make it more expensive to run. The higher upfront cost of installing a gas heating system is balanced with the lower running costs of gas.
The "30-minute heating rule" is a highly efficient, money-saving thermostat strategy that involves turning your heating system on 30 minutes before you need a space warmed up, and turning it off 30 minutes before you no longer need it.
If your thermostat is set to 20°C (68°F) but your home still feels chilly, it is likely due to radiant heat loss, drafts, or high humidity. The temperature of the air isn't the only thing that dictates how warm you feel.
According to Checkatrade, gas costs on average 6.04p/kWh, whereas electricity costs 24.5p/kWh in 2025. Using a cost of 24.5p/kWh for electricity, the cost to run an electric underfloor heating system can range between £373 to £1,469 per year for a room sized between 10m2 and 30m2.
Too much flow. Too fast a flow rate will not transfer the heat properly in the room. Set the flow meters to 1.5-2 for boiler system and 1 for heat pump use. Check the thermostat is calling for heat and switching the heat source/pumps on.
Underfloor heating (UFH) offers luxurious warmth, but its primary drawbacks include a high upfront cost, slow heating times, and complex, invasive repairs if a pipe or wire breaks.
The absolute cheapest way to heat a home depends on your local climate and fuel access. For whole-house heating, natural gas furnaces offer the lowest ongoing monthly costs. If natural gas isn't available, electric heat pumps are the most cost-effective alternative. For zone heating, targeted ceramic space heaters combined with insulation are best.
Known for his practical tips, Lewis introduced the '4pm rule' which involves using curtains strategically to retain heat. He suggests opening curtains when the sun rises at around 8:30am to let in natural warmth, and closing them by 4pm to keep the heat inside.
Water based floor heating is the most eco-friendly, energy-efficient, and futureproof system available.
No. Underfloor systems typically preserve indoor humidity better than forced-air heaters. Since they don't rely on blowing warm, dry air around a room, they have much less of a drying effect on the air (and your skin).
Use a Water Heater to Make Radiant Floor Heat Instead of a Boiler. Many people use a water heater instead of a boiler for radiant floor heat because it COSTS LESS. A hot water heater saves money when used in this way.
Common underfloor heating issues include air bubbles and pressure drops in water-based systems, faulty thermostats or temperature sensors, and "patchy" heating due to poor pipe layout, bad floor insulation, or incorrect floor coverings.
The pump speed should be set to speed 3. The mixing valve is normally set to 45°c for concrete floors and 55°c for timber suspended floors. If for some reason the rooms aren't heating up, the flow temperature on the mixing valve can be increased.
Reducing Your Running Costs
Industry research and current best practice agree: Electric underfloor heating often lasts around 20-30 years when properly installed and not subjected to damage from, say, aggressive DIYers drilling into the floor. Water-based underfloor heating can routinely reach lifespans of 35 years or longer.
What Alternative Heat Sources are Compatible With Underfloor Heating?
Keeping your underfloor heating system (UFH) on 24/7 is considered one of the most efficient ways to heat your home. Not only does it provide a consistent temperature throughout, but it also helps maintain the performance of your UFH system and is a more energy-efficient and cost-effective option.
Yes, 77°F is generally considered too hot for a house in the winter. It is higher than the recommended energy-saving guidelines, can dry out your indoor air, and will likely cause unnecessarily high heating bills.
No, it is generally not cheaper to leave your heating on low all day. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, maintaining a constant temperature results in continuous heat loss, causing your system to consume more overall energy.
Maintain your thermostat at a minimum of 55°F (13°C) to protect your pipes. While water freezes at 32∘F (0∘C), keeping the ambient air at 55∘F ensures the temperature within your walls and near exterior-facing pipes stays safely above freezing.