Underfloor Heating Benfleet

Welcome to Clearwater Plumbers. We install, service and repair Underfloor Heating systems in Benfleet.

• Installation, Service & Repair
• Wet & Electric Systems
• Free no-obligation quotes
• Gas Safe Registered Engineers

Types Of Underfloor Heating Systems

There are two types of Underfloor Heating systems: wet and electric. We install and repair them both.

Wet Systems

Wet systems circulate warm water through a network of pipes laid under the floor. These pipes are connected to the home’s central heating system, which heats the water with a boiler. 

Wet underfloor heating systems, which circulate warm water through pipes under the floor, offer several advantages:

• They are highly energy efficient, leading to lower running costs. Their efficiency makes them ideal for heating larger spaces or entire homes.
• Water-based systems distribute heat more evenly than traditional radiators, creating a comfortable and consistent room temperature. 
• They operate at lower temperatures than conventional radiators, further enhancing energy efficiency.
• Wet systems have a longer lifespan than electric ones. Underfloor pipes have a lifespan of up to 100 years.

Electric Systems

Electric underfloor heating uses a series of electric wires or mats installed beneath the floor surface. These systems convert electricity directly into heat. 

Electric underfloor heating systems offer distinct advantages:

• Their installation is generally simpler and less invasive than wet systems, making them ideal for retrofitting in existing properties or smaller areas. 
• The initial installation cost is usually lower, and they don’t require a complex network of pipes, reducing the complexity and disruption of installation. 
• Electric systems heat up quickly, providing immediate warmth, which can be advantageous in rooms used infrequently. 
• Unlike water-based systems, they have minimal maintenance requirements and no need for annual servicing. 
• Electric underfloor heating offers flexibility in design, as it can be easily tailored to fit various room shapes and sizes.

Underfloor Heating Insulation

Underfloor heating insulation maximises the efficiency and effectiveness of electric and wet underfloor heating systems. Proper insulation ensures heat is directed upwards into the living space and minimises energy consumption and heating costs. Underfloor Heating Insulation includes:

Screed

Screed plays a pivotal role in water-based underfloor heating systems. It involves a layer of sand and cement mixture, or sometimes specialised anhydrite compounds, poured over the heating pipes. This layer acts as a thermal mass, evenly distributing the heat across the floor surface. The thickness and type of screed can impact the system’s responsiveness and heat retention.

Celotex

Celotex and other PIR (polyisocyanurate) insulation boards are popular for their high thermal efficiency and strength. These rigid foam boards are placed beneath the heating system to prevent downward heat loss. The unique structure of Celotex boards makes them ideal for underfloor heating, as they provide excellent insulation while being robust enough to withstand floor loads.

Insulation Boards

Insulation boards are essential, especially for electric underfloor heating systems. These boards can be made from various materials, including expanded polystyrene (EPS), extruded polystyrene (XPS), and phenolic foam. They are designed to provide a high level of thermal resistance, effectively reducing the amount of heat escaping downwards or sideways. The insulation board’s right thickness and material depend on the heating system’s specific requirements and the floor structure.

Underfloor Heating Controls

Various controls are available for underfloor heating installations, ensuring you get the most out of your system. Controls include:

Manual Thermostats

Manual thermostats offer a straightforward approach to controlling underfloor heating. These devices allow for manual temperature adjustments without the complexity of programming. They are suitable for areas where a constant temperature is typically maintained.

Programmable Thermostats

Programmable thermostats enable setting different temperatures for varying times and days. This feature aligns heating with daily schedules, enhancing energy efficiency and user convenience.

Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats represent the cutting edge of heating control. They allow remote adjustments via smartphone apps and can learn user patterns for automated temperature adjustments. Their connectivity and intelligence offer the highest level of convenience and efficiency.

Zone Controls

Zone controls divide underfloor heating into independently managed areas. This setup permits different temperatures in various rooms, perfect for larger properties or those requiring precise temperature control in different spaces.

Wireless Controls

Wireless controls are ideal for retrofitting, eliminating the need for extensive wiring. These thermostats can be flexibly placed and communicate with the heating system via radiofrequency, offering both convenience and ease of installation.

Free No-Obligation Survey 

A free, no-obligation survey conducted by one of our professional engineers is the first step in designing and pricing an efficient underfloor heating system tailored to your home and space. During this survey, the engineer assesses various aspects of your property to ensure the optimal design of the heating system.

Firstly, the engineer examines the space’s layout and dimensions. This includes checking room sizes, floor plans, and any unique structural features that might affect the installation, such as irregular room shapes or obstacles. Understanding the space helps determine the best configuration of the heating system for even heat distribution.

Secondly, the survey evaluates the existing insulation and flooring materials, as these factors significantly influence the efficiency of underfloor heating. The type of insulation in the floors and walls and the flooring material (such as tile, wood, or carpet) will dictate the system’s design to maximise heat retention and output.

Thirdly, the engineer will consider the existing heating system and how the new underfloor system will integrate or replace it. This assessment includes checking Boiler capacity (for wet systems) or electrical supply (for electric systems), ensuring compatibility and adequate power.

The survey also allows you to discuss your needs and preferences, such as zoning controls or integration with smart home systems. 

The engineer can then design an efficient, effective and customised system to your requirements. This tailored approach ensures the best possible underfloor heating solution for your home in terms of performance and cost-efficiency.