Is Radiant Floor Heating Efficient?

There is a lot of confusion as to the extent of the energy saving abilities of underfloor heating (also called radiant floor heating). Results from various studies put the energy consumption of radiant floor heating anywhere between 52% less and 10% more than conventional heating systems. The confusion is caused by the extent of the reduction in ambient air temperature.

With radiant heating systems, approximately half the energy is emitted into the room as low temperature radiant heat. This process is very efficient as it provides a lower ambient air temperature allowing you to feel warmer at a lower temperature because the radiant heat is lowering the heat loss from your body. However, you will not fully benefit from these energy savings if you overheat the room to maintain the ambient air temperature you are used to with conventional heating.

Energy savings vary depending on the insulation, usage patterns and personal requirements of the occupants. Other factors to bear in mind include the cost of the power source. That said, the conversion of oil and natural gas to heat is far less efficient than electricity due to heat through the venting of the furnace or boiler.

Electric heating tends to be controlled on a room-by-room basis (rather than one central thermostat for central heating). The difference in running costs between oil or gas fired heating and radiant systems will vary according to the thermal characteristics of your individual house, the age and efficiency of your furance or boiler, your usage pattern, the control systems implemented and your particular gas and electricity tariff.

The many variables make it impossible to provide a reliable rule of thumb.

As a general principle with Warmup a 10-15% energy saving should be possible using insulated underfloor heating when compared to conventional electric heating.

8 Ways Warmup Underfloor Heating is Energy Efficient and Economical to Run 8 Ways Warmup Underfloor Heating is Energy Efficient and Economical to Run outlines the benefits of electric radiant heat.