Frequently asked questions

Q. Why is underfloor heating better than a radiator system?
A. One of the main advantages for having underfloor heating is that it eliminates the design drawbacks of radiators. Once they are fixed to the walls they cannot be moved, therefore limiting where you can place furniture around a room.

Q. Can I still have an underfloor heating system installed if my build is at an advanced construction stage?
A. Yes, this can be done, depending on your floor construction. For suspended timber floors where your floor levels are already set (preventing you from laying the pipes on top of your joists), you can install the pipes in between. Our design team will design the underfloor heating system specifically for each individual project.

Q. Can I have underfloor heating installed in my existing home?
A. The issues here are insulation levels and floor height build-up. If the building is well insulated with doubleglazing and is close to current building regulations standards then underfloor heating will perform well. If not, it is possible that the generally accepted floor temperature limit would have to be exceeded to maintain room temperatures on very cold days, or supplementary heating used. If an extensive refurbishment or conversion is being undertaken, it is usually straightforward to incorporate underfloor heating, but care must be taken to ensure that, particularly on ground floors, the floor insulation is adequate.

Q. Can I have underfloor heating in my conservatory or extension?
A. Conservatories are an ideal situation for an underfloor heating system since the nature of construction usually leaves very little wall space to install a radiator. Likewise, most conservatories have large glass windows that, even when double-glazed, can lead to very cold rooms. Underfloor heating warms the conservatory gradually from beneath, making them useable rooms all year round.

Q. Can I install underfloor heating in my bathroom or extension if I have radiators elsewhere?
A. If your property already has hot water radiator system, underfloor heating can be installed in any additional rooms by a water temperature control unit designed for smaller floor areas. This controls and mixes the radiator water to lower temperatures to ensure floor surface temperatures do not rise too high. There are a wide range of control units available to suit different floor surfaces and structures.

Q. Is it economical to run?
A. Yes, if running properly you will see large savings in both domestic and commercial structures.

Q. How much will it cost?
A. Due to the fact that each project is unique we do not offer a set meterage price. Instead we will provide you will a full quotation free of charge for your requirements.

Q. Does underfloor heating work through a carpet?
A. Normal good quality domestic carpet and underlays present no problem, but felt underlays and very thick carpet should be avoided.

Q. Will the underfloor heating damage my floor or carpets?
A. The low surface temperature that an underfloor heating system generates should never reach a temperature that could cause damage to your floor surfaces.

Q. What fuel does an underfloor heating system run on?
A. You can use any kind of fuel to warm the water that circulates through the underfloor heating system pipes.

Q. Is it controllable?
A. Yes, floorwarming works on a different principle to convection systems, but is still easily controlled.

Q. Is underfloor heating effective upstairs?
A. Yes. Bedroom floors become comfortable places and wall space is freed for wardrobes and beds. Warm bathroom floors feel luxurious underfoot and dry within minutes.

Q. What if it leaks?
A. Because leaks would be a problem, this is why all reputable underfloor heating companies go to great lengths to make sure it does not leak. We supply pipe that is certified to British and European standards for this application, as are all plumbing fittings. There are no joints in the tubing coils under the floor. All components are designed and tested to withstand several times the pressures they will meet in service. Finally, as part of the installation process, a full pressure test is carried out to ensure that there are no residual problems.

Q. Will it work with my choice of boiler?
A. Your underfloor heating system will have its own pump, temperature blending valve and flow controls. All it needs is a supply of warm water which can be produced by most normal domestic boilers. P.R.M. Solutions will be pleased to advise on boiler suitability.

Q. Does it need a special hot water cylinder?
A. No. The system works perfectly well with all normal cylinder types as well as with combination boilers having no storage.

Q. How easy is it to install and how long does it take?
A. The time it takes will vary according to the construction of the floor.

Q. Can underfloor heating systems work with solar power, heat or air source pumps?
A. Yes, underfloor heating is very compatible with these. and works extremely well with both heat and air source pumps. PRM Solutions will be pleased to advise.