Underfloor Heating Maintenance & Servicing Requirements

If you already have underfloor heating installed or are thinking about it, regular maintenance to prolong its efficiency and lifespan is vital. 

There are two types of underfloor heating systems available, one being electric underfloor heating and the other being water underfloor heating. Both systems offer a high degree of efficiency, and both are considered environmentally friendly when compared to traditional heating systems such as radiators. Read on to learn more about underfloor heating maintenance and what underfloor heating servicing entails.

How much maintenance does an underfloor heating system require?

Electric systems are cheaper, quicker and easier to install, consisting of a series of heating mats with a looped electric cable. Water systems are more complex and consist of a series of pipes, in which hot water is pumped. An underfloor heating system based on hot water is more expensive to install but will last longer and cost less to run. However, to ensure maximum benefit, both systems will require periodic underfloor heating servicing.

Electric underfloor heating requires very little or no maintenance, provided it has been correctly installed by an industry-trained professional. If the system continues to work effectively then there is no need for concern. If it doesn’t then it’s important to have a qualified electrician check the wiring connections.  

A water underfloor heating system is very different and has many components, including a pump, pipes, manifolds, vents, valves, actuators, sensors and gauges. With so many parts, regular annual checks and maintenance are recommended. To understand the benefits of underfloor heating and to keep your system running smoothly, regular maintenance tasks such as bleeding, flushing and checking for leaks will need to be carried out.

Does underfloor heating need servicing?

Generally, electric underfloor heating systems do not need regular servicing but wet underfloor heating systems do. That said, underfloor heating is relatively maintenance-free compared to a traditional boiler and radiator system. However, if your underfloor heating depends on a gas boiler then an annual boiler service is essential. For peace of mind, you might want to have a professional check over your underfloor heating system before the cold weather sets in.

You can carry out some basic underfloor heating maintenance yourself by checking for damp patches on the floor. Also, check the thermostat settings and bleed air from the system if necessary but only if you’re able to do so. Check your system’s pressure and listen for any strange noises coming from the pipes, which might indicate an airlock. 

Checking your thermostat’s performance

Whether you have an electric underfloor heating system or a wet system, it is very likely to include heat sensors and a thermostat. Modern thermostats will use the floor temperature and air temperature readings to regulate the correct temperature for your room. Providing your property is well insulated, a setting of between 22°C and 24°C should suffice.

Thermostats are essential for the effectiveness of your underfloor heating system. They can be wired into the underfloor heating system or they can be wireless. Wireless smart thermostats are the best option as they are highly sensitive and operate at maximum efficiency. If there appears to be a problem with the thermostat, first check and replace the battery if necessary.