What does it cost to retrofit UFH?
Installing underfloor heating in an existing property is a great space-saving way to increase comfort and efficiently warm your home. But what determines how much your setup will cost? Erika Chaffey investigates
Right: The Lo ProMax system offers an impressive heat output, making it well-suited to kitchens, conservatories and areas with large windows or glazed doors
Below: Wunda Rapid Response boards can be fitted by professional installers or competent DIYers alike. The system is controlled remotely using the discreet WundSmart thermostat, pictured here
Retrofitting underfloor heating (UFH) is an appealing and low-maintenance way to enhance your home’s energy efficiency and contribute to comfortable, enjoyable living spaces. Plumbedin, or wet, UFH systems are the most common retrofit solutions. These setups connect to your central heating system via a manifold and circulate warm water through flexible tubing beneath your floors, offering even warmth and freeing up wall space from radiators. UFH only requires water heated to approximately 35°C, while the flow temperature in radiators is around 60°C – typically making this solution cheaper to run.
While there are plenty of modern systems designed to make retrofitting UFH easier, installations in existing properties can bring challenges affecting costs, project timelines and complexity. Here, I break down the key considerations that can impact your spending and share how to ensure a cost-effective setup.