Electric Underfloor Heating
Underfloor heating isn't exactly a new concept considering the Romans were installing it in their villas. But as it was very much a luxury, had to be installed at the building stage, and was high maintenance when it came to keeping it running, it's not surprising that it quickly fell out of favour.
However, things have changed mainly because of new technology. Now, although it's the easiest option, you don't need to install underfloor heating at the building stage especially if you opt for electric underfloor heating. You'll find you can retro-fit it into most types of property.
So why would you want to go for underfloor heating? Most of us are used to having a radiator or two blasting heat out into the room. A lot of people find this system unsatisfactory because if you're sitting close to the radiator you find it too warm and if you move further away it's not warm enough.
The other thing is that radiators can really dry the air in a room which is not good news for those with any type of respiratory problems like people with asthma.
Underfloor heating is much gentler. Instead of intense heat coming from one or two sources in the room the whole floor area radiates out a low heat level making it much more comfortable for everyone in the room where ever they are sitting.
One of the biggest reasons that there's been a surge of interest in electric underfloor heating is because of the change from carpets to laminate, wood flooring and tiles. You can actually used carpet over underfloor heating, it's just not the most efficient way to use it.
Laminate floorings are very practical and can look very stylish but are very cold on the feet. This great on hot summer days but not particularly pleasant during the colder months of the year. Tiles in the bathroom are also practical but cold especially after you've just stepped out of a lovely warm bath. What could be better than warming your toes on a lovely warm floor instead?
And another big advantage of underfloor heating is that you can get rid of the radiators which often dominate a room. Along with that is the fact you'll be able to place your furniture where you want too without having to worry about the intense heat from your radiator warping your lovely wooden furniture if you put it too close.
Of course if you decide to retro-fit underfloor heating in your home it does involve some disruption but not too much. The installation process is relatively quick and although because of new regulations you'll need to have a properly qualified electrician connect it all up, you can do most of the ground work yourself. That way you'll save quite a bit of money.
Yes, electric underfloor heating is a luxury but it's an affordable luxury and one that you'll be glad you went for. And by not skimping on the necessary insulation you'll find that it's also a cost effective way of heating your home.