Underfloor heating in bathrooms: electric or wet?

Warm floors are one of the small luxuries clients most often ask for in a new bathroom. There are two main types of underfloor heating, and the right one depends on the size of the room, your floor and your heating system.

Electric underfloor heating

Electric systems use thin heating mats or cables laid under the tile adhesive.

• They add very little height to the floor, which matters when matching an existing landing or hallway.

• Installation is quicker and the upfront cost is lower.

• Running costs depend on electricity prices, so they suit bathrooms where the floor is heated for set periods rather than all day.

• Bathrooms are special locations for electrical work, so the system must be installed on a suitable protected circuit and certified.

Wet (water-based) underfloor heating

Wet systems circulate warm water from your boiler or heat pump through pipes in the floor.

• They are usually cheaper to run over time, especially with a heat pump.

• They need more floor height, a manifold and connection to the heating system, so they suit larger renovations and ground floors.

• They respond more slowly, so they work best when left on at a steady temperature.

Things to plan for

• Insulation under the heating makes a big difference to how quickly the floor warms up.

• Use a thermostat with a floor probe so the tiles do not overheat, especially under natural stone.

• Keep the area under a bath or fixed vanity unheated where possible.

• Most people still need a heated towel rail to dry towels and help with ventilation.

Thinking about underfloor heating?

We plan underfloor heating into the bathrooms we build across South West London and Surrey. Get in touch to talk through your project.