The Top 5 Myths About Underfloor Heating – Busted

Setting the Record Straight on Comfort, Cost and Efficiency

Underfloor heating has become increasingly popular in homes across the UK, especially in kitchens, bathrooms and open-plan living areas. However, despite its growing use, a number of common myths still persist — often preventing homeowners from considering it as a viable alternative to traditional radiators.

In this post, we address five of the most widespread misconceptions about underfloor heating and explain why they’re simply not true.

Myth 1: Underfloor heating is slow to warm up

This is one of the most frequent concerns, but it doesn’t apply to modern electric underfloor heating systems. High-quality heating mats — like those we supply — are designed for rapid warm-up and are especially responsive when installed with the correct insulation boards.

Insulation plays a key role in preventing downward heat loss and speeding up warm-up times. When properly installed, the system can begin delivering noticeable warmth within minutes. Paired with programmable thermostats, it can be scheduled to reach the desired temperature precisely when needed — ensuring comfort without delay.

Myth 2: It’s only suitable for new builds or major renovations

While underfloor heating is an ideal choice during a renovation or when laying new flooring, it is by no means limited to those situations. Electric systems are slimline, easy to retrofit, and can be installed in individual rooms without major disruption. They are particularly well suited for bathrooms, en-suites, kitchens and extensions.

For homeowners looking to improve comfort in a specific area — without overhauling the entire heating system — underfloor heating is often a practical and cost-effective solution.

Myth 3: Underfloor heating is expensive to run

This is a common misconception, largely based on outdated assumptions. While electric underfloor heating does run on electricity — which can be more costly per unit than gas — the system itself is highly efficient.

Because it operates at lower temperatures and distributes heat evenly across a room, it typically uses less energy to maintain a comfortable temperature. Zoned heating, where individual rooms are controlled separately, also helps avoid unnecessary energy use. When installed with the right insulation and a modern thermostat, underfloor heating can offer very competitive running costs — especially in well-insulated spaces.

Myth 4: It won’t work with certain types of flooring

Modern underfloor heating systems are compatible with a wide range of floor finishes, including tile, laminate, engineered wood, vinyl and even some carpets. The key is to choose the right heating mat and ensure it is installed according to the flooring manufacturer’s guidelines.

At Underfloor Heating Plus, we offer dedicated systems for specific floor types, ensuring optimal performance and safety. Whether you’re planning a tiled bathroom or a laminate-floored lounge, there is a solution designed to work seamlessly.

Myth 5: It’s difficult to control

Early systems may have lacked flexibility, but today’s underfloor heating is highly controllable — often more so than traditional radiators. Digital thermostats, room-by-room zoning, and smart home integration mean you can tailor the temperature in each space to suit your schedule and preferences.

Whether you want the bathroom warm in the morning, the living room cosy in the evening, or the guest bedroom off altogether, it’s all easily managed — either manually, with a timer, or remotely via an app.

In Summary

Underfloor heating is no longer a luxury reserved for new-build properties or high-end renovations. It’s a modern, efficient and versatile option that suits a wide range of homes and lifestyles. When properly installed and controlled, it delivers consistent comfort, better energy use, and a cleaner aesthetic — without many of the downsides people often associate with it.

At Underfloor Heating Plus, we supply high-quality, German-engineered systems backed by decades of experience and a 30-year guarantee. If you’re still unsure whether underfloor heating is right for your home, our team is here to answer your questions and help you make the best choice for your project.