Do You Need Insulation Boards with Electric Underfloor Heating?
A Practical Guide to Efficiency, Comfort and Cost Savings
When planning an electric underfloor heating system, one question often crops up: do I really need insulation boards? It’s tempting to skip them, especially when trying to keep costs down, but the truth is, insulation boards play a crucial role in how well your system performs.
This article explores why insulation boards matter, how they affect energy use, and whether they’re worth the investment for your home or renovation project.
What Do Insulation Boards Actually Do?
Insulation boards are designed to sit beneath your heating mats or cables, creating a thermal barrier between the heating system and the subfloor. Without them, a significant portion of the heat can be lost downwards, especially on concrete or uninsulated surfaces.
By reflecting heat upwards, insulation boards help your system warm the room more efficiently, reducing heat-up times and lowering energy consumption. In short, they make your underfloor heating work smarter, not harder.
Energy Efficiency and Running Costs
Electric underfloor heating is already known for its even heat distribution and responsive control, but when paired with high-quality insulation boards, the efficiency improves dramatically.
Rooms heat up faster, thermostats don’t need to work as hard, and you’ll likely notice a drop in energy usage over time. This is particularly important in high-use areas like kitchens, bathrooms and open-plan living spaces, where consistent warmth is key.
While electricity can be more expensive per unit than gas, a well-insulated system helps offset this by reducing the time and energy needed to reach your desired temperature.
Installation Considerations
Installing insulation boards adds a layer to your flooring build-up, so it’s important to factor in height changes, especially in rooms with fixed thresholds or low ceilings. That said, most boards are lightweight and easy to cut, making them a practical addition to renovation projects or new builds.
For those planning a full heating upgrade, pairing insulation boards with our electric heating mats and thermostats ensures optimal performance and control.
Are They Worth the Cost?
Insulation boards do add to the upfront cost of your heating system, but they often pay for themselves in energy savings and improved comfort. They also help protect your heating elements from thermal stress, which can extend the lifespan of the system.
If you’re investing in a German-engineered heating solution from Underfloor Heating Plus, pairing it with proper insulation is a smart move. It ensures you get the full benefit of the technology and helps avoid heat loss that could undermine your investment.
Final Thoughts
While not strictly mandatory, insulation boards are strongly recommended for most electric underfloor heating installations. They improve efficiency, reduce running costs, and enhance overall comfort, especially in rooms with high heat demand or limited insulation.
If you’re planning a project and need help choosing the right setup, our expert team is here to help. We offer a full range of insulation boards, heating mats, and thermostats to suit every space.
