Electric underfloor heating is a modern, efficient way to keep your home warm, offering consistent heat distribution and a touch of luxury. However, like any heating system, it can encounter problems over time. Whether you’re a homeowner or installer, understanding these issues is key to quick diagnosis and effective repair.
In this blog, we’ll break down the most common electric underfloor heating problems, their causes, and practical solutions.
1. 🔥 System Not Heating Up
Symptoms:
The floor remains cold even when the system is on.
Possible Causes:
- Faulty thermostat
- Damaged or broken heating cables
- No power reaching the system
Solutions:
- Check your circuit breaker and thermostat settings.
- Use a multimeter to check continuity in the wiring.
- If you suspect cable damage, contact a professional for thermal imaging or a TDR (Time Domain Reflectometer) test.
2. 🧊 Uneven Heating or Cold Spots
Symptoms:
Some areas of the floor are warm, while others remain cool.
Possible Causes:
- Improper cable spacing during installation
- Partial damage to heating elements
- Inadequate subfloor insulation
Solutions:
- Use a thermal imaging camera to pinpoint cold spots.
- Improve insulation or consider lifting the flooring to inspect cable layout.
- A professional can replace damaged heating mats or cables.
3. ⚙️ Thermostat Malfunctions
Symptoms:
Thermostat won’t turn on, shows incorrect temperature, or doesn’t activate the heating.
Possible Causes:
- Sensor failure
- Loose connections
- Software bugs
Solutions:
- Reset or reprogram the thermostat.
- Check the floor sensor—replacing it is often easier than lifting the floor.
- If the display is dead or unresponsive, consider replacing the unit.
4. 💸 Unexpectedly High Energy Bills
Symptoms:
Electricity usage spikes after installing the system.
Possible Causes:
- Heating system runs too long or inefficiently
- Poor insulation beneath the heating system
- Incorrect thermostat settings
Solutions:
- Use timers and zoning to control usage.
- Reassess insulation, especially under tiles or stone.
- Make sure the floor sensor is properly installed and calibrated.
5. ⚡ Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping
Symptoms:
RCD or breaker trips when the heating system is turned on.
Possible Causes:
- Ground fault from cable damage
- Moisture ingress
- Overloaded circuit
Solutions:
- Stop using the system immediately and call an electrician.
- Damaged cables must be repaired or replaced.
- Moisture must be eliminated before reactivating the system.
🧰 Preventive Tips for Long-Term Performance
- Test regularly: Use a multimeter annually to check resistance levels.
- Use a floor sensor: This prevents overheating and improves accuracy.
- Avoid floor damage: Don’t drill, screw, or nail into heated floors.
- Choose the right flooring: Tile, stone, or engineered wood are best for heat transfer.
🚨 When to Call a Professional
While some minor issues can be resolved DIY-style, always call a qualified technician when:
- Electrical faults occur (e.g., tripping breakers or sparks)
- You need to lift the floor covering
- Cable repairs or diagnostics are required
Final Thoughts
Electric underfloor heating is low-maintenance when installed correctly, but things can go wrong—especially if the system wasn’t properly set up or if it’s aging. By spotting issues early and understanding their causes, you can keep your home warm and energy-efficient for years to come.
