The purpose of underfloor heating and radiators is the same: to heating the house. But what exactly is the difference between the two heating systems? Both offer comfort and heat but differ in the amount of energy they consume and in (installation) costs. Are you curious which option is best for you? underfloor heating or radiators? Then read on and discover which one is more economical and cheaper.
What is the difference between underfloor heating and radiators?
Underfloor heating and radiators work in different ways. Both aim to make the house warm and comfortable. They also both draw hot water from the central heating boiler or heat pump to heat the room. But what's the biggest difference between underfloor heating and radiators? Radiators transfer heat through the air by convection, and underfloor heating works by radiating heat into the room. With radiators, the warm air rises and heats one or more parts of the room. The temperature higher. With underfloor heating you have an even temperature in the room and the temperature lower. So they are both perfect systems for heating your home, but they both have their own advantages and disadvantages.
What is more economical: underfloor heating or radiators?
Is underfloor heating more economical than radiators? The answer is yes. Underfloor heating is certainly more economical than radiators . Both systems provide a good amount of heat. But there is a difference in consumption. Underfloor heating is 10 to 20% more economical than radiators. This is because the room temperature will be lower with underfloor heating, meaning less energy is needed to keep the house warm. With underfloor heating, the water from the boiler isn't constantly hot but only stays at 50 degrees. Radiators, on the other hand, usually consume more energy because the higher temperature leads to more energy consumption. A constantly high temperature flows through them. However, underfloor heating does take a little longer to heat up the room compared to radiators, where this takes somewhat faster. In terms of installation costs and maintenance, radiators usually yes cheaper then underfloor heating
What is cheaper: underfloor heating or radiators?
Is underfloor heating cheaper than radiators? The answer depends on several factors such as the size of the room, the insulation, your preferences, etc. Installing underfloor heating is generally more expensive Because it's more labor-intensive. Underfloor heating also costs more to purchase than radiators. In short, underfloor heating is cheaper to use and more expensive to purchase, and radiators are cheaper to purchase and more expensive to run.
This is the best option for you!
Now that you know the difference between underfloor heating and radiators, and which is more efficient and affordable, all that's left to do is choose the best option for you. To help you decide, we've created an overview of both heating systems.
This is why you well should choose radiators
We have listed the advantages of radiators for you.
- Easy to install
- Low installation costs and cheap to purchase
- User-friendly
- Have a fast heat-up time and fast temperature drop
- Offer many possibilities – many models and designs to choose from
- You can dry something on it, for example a tea towel or hand towel
- Offer fewer risks during a renovation
This is why you not should choose radiators
It's also important to consider the disadvantages of radiators. You can find these here.
- Uneven distribution of space
- Return is limited
- Uses a lot of energy
- Takes up space
- Pipes may be visible
- More problems with air circulation
- Cooling is not possible
This is why you well should choose underfloor heating
Now that you know the advantages and disadvantages, we have also listed the advantages and disadvantages of underfloor heating for you.
- Even distribution of heat
- Constant heat
- No cold feet
- Cooling is also possible
- No air circulation problems
- More energy efficient
- Saves space
- Suitable for new construction
- Thermostat needs less
In short, when choosing between underfloor heating and radiators, there are several factors to consider. Underfloor heating is more expensive to purchase and more economical to run, while radiators are cheaper to purchase and less economical to run. Need help ? We're happy to discuss your personal situation with you. Feel free to contact our specialists.
