Underfloor Heating is not new. In Europe it is the system of choice and in some countries accounts for 70% of new heating installations.
A radiator system transfers energy into the room largely by convection. This convection results in the floor being the coolest part of the room and leaves a mass of warm air at ceiling level. It also picks up fine dust from the floor and distributes it into the air and over the furnishings.
This can mean that much of the energy, which had been put into the room, is wasted and not in the area you want it to be.
A UFH system heats mainly by radiation. This is the most natural and comfortable form of heating - just like the sun.
Radiant energy emitted by the floor is partly reflected by each surface and partly absorbed. Where it is absorbed, that surface becomes a secondary emitter.
After a while, all surfaces become secondary emitters. Furnishings themselves radiate energy and the room becomes evenly and uniformly warmed. The energy reaches into every corner of the room - no cold spot, no hot ceilings and no cold feet.
When compared to other forms of heating, the overall effectiveness of a UFH system can be seen below.
The heat is concentrated where it is most needed for human comfort and energy efficiency.
The system reduces energy consumption and the loss of heat from the building surface is reduced.
