The Complete Cost Guide to Installing Underfloor Heating
Underfloor heating (UFH) is becoming a popular choice across the UK, offering energy-efficient warmth and a sleek finish. But how much does it actually cost to install and run in 2025?
Whether you’re renovating a bathroom or heating a whole home, this guide breaks down everything — from system prices and installation costs to real examples and running expenses.
Average Underfloor Heating Costs in 2025
DIY vs Professional Installation
Here’s what you can expect to pay per square metre for the main UFH types:
| System Type | Material Cost (per m²) | Installed Cost (per m²) |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Mat System | £35–£75 | £50–£100 |
| Foil Mat System | £45–£90 | £65–£120 |
| Water-Based System | £70–£150 | £85–£200 |
Installing electric underfloor heating yourself can save a lot on labour. Wet systems, however, usually require a qualified installer.
DIY install: Ideal for single rooms or smaller projects
Professional install: Best for full-house systems or screeded floors
🔗 See our UFH FAQs
🔗 Get Free Advice from UFH Experts 🔗 Get a quote from UFH Direct
Electric vs Wet UFH – Which is More Cost-Effective?
| Feature | Electric UFH | Wet UFH |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Running Cost | Higher per kWh | Lower long-term |
| Best For | Bathrooms, retrofits, Solar Powered | New builds, large areas |
Running Costs: How Much Will UFH Save on Your Bills?
With underfloor heating, warmth rises evenly from the floor, delivering heat at the height you live and move in – around 1.7 metres. In contrast, radiators push hot air upward, creating higher temperatures above head height and cooler zones at ground level, making the space feel less comfortable and less efficient
Underfloor heating running costs vary by system type, energy efficiency, insulation, and how it’s used. Here’s what you can expect based on typical UK setups in 2025:
🔌 Electric UFH:
For a 10m² room using a 150W/m² mat, run for 5 hours/day:
10m² × 150W = 1.5kW
1.5kW × 5 hours = 7.5kWh/day
At £0.30/kWh = £2.25/day
Weekly cost ≈ £15.75
💡 Best for bathrooms, kitchens, and single-room retrofits.
💧 Water-Based UFH:
Water UFH is 15–30% more efficient than radiators when paired with a condensing boiler and much cheaper to run with a heat pump (COP 3.0+).
Heating a 60m² home at 35°C flow temp with a modern system and heat pump might cost £10–£14/week, vs £15–£30/week with traditional radiators.
💡 Ideal for whole-house heating, new builds, or when paired with renewables.
🧠 Efficiency Boost Tip:
Use Smart Thermostats and insulation boards to cut heat loss and reduce energy usage across zones.
UFH Installation in Plymouth & the South West
UFH Direct is based in Plymouth and delivers across Devon, Cornwall, and the entire UK. We offer expert system design, supply-only options, and trusted trade support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is underfloor heating expensive to run?
Not if installed correctly. Wet systems, especially with heat pumps, are extremely efficient.
Can I use UFH under Laminate, Wood or Engineered Wood?
Yes — foil mat systems are designed for these floor types.
🔗 See Foil Kits
Do I need insulation boards?
Yes! Without them, up to 35% of heat can be lost.
🔗 Browse Insulation Boards
See out FAQs page for more info
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