DIY Supermarket

Traditional heating systems

Here in the UK, traditional heating means convection heating. This is the actual movement of heat from one location to another through the air. With traditional heating, radiators are required, and the warmed air is circulated through a room, working from the top downward (warm air rises).

Other key elements of traditional convection heating systems include the following: The heat concentrates at the location of the source, in this case, the radiators. Convection currents create dust, which is then dispersed into the air, landing on furnishings and being breathed into our lungs. A room needs to maintain an average temperature of 22°C in order to remain comfortable. Heating for every room is controlled by a single thermostat, rather than by individual thermostats within every room. Radiators are ugly, take up precious wall space, and require continual maintenance. A gas-fired boiler, along with pumps and valves is required.

Underfloor heating systems

Underfloor heating, while coming with its own minimal set of issues, is often a better choice than traditional heating systems for several reasons: Reduced energy costs – with an annual savings averaging between 15 and 20%. Water, or wet, underfloor heating systems are maintenance-free, and will usually last for the lifetime of the home. Electric underfloor heating systems are relatively cheap to install. Radiated heat is more efficient than convection. The dust problem is eliminated. Warmth starts and the floor and moves upward, rather than vice versa. There is no need for radiators.