Underfloor heating is becoming an increasingly popular choice for homeowners looking for efficient, comfortable, and invisible warmth. But how much does underfloor heating cost per square metre—and what factors influence the price?
In this guide, we break down costs by system type, room size, and country, helping you decide whether underfloor heating is the right investment for your home.
What Affects Underfloor Heating Costs Per m²?
1. Type of System: Electric vs. Wet (Hydronic)
| System Type | Installation Cost (UK) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Electric | £50–£85/m² | Small rooms, retrofits |
| Wet (Hydronic) | £85–£110/m² | Larger spaces, new builds |
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Electric systems are easy to install and ideal for renovations or smaller rooms.
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Hydronic systems use warm water through pipes, better suited for larger homes due to lower long-term running costs.
💡 Example: In Australia, electric systems cost around AU $70/m², while hydronic systems cost about AU $105/m².
2. Running Costs by Room Size
| Room Size | Electric (£/hr) | Wet (£/hr) |
|---|---|---|
| 5 m² bathroom | £0.12 | £0.07 |
| 14 m² kitchen | £0.34 | £0.18 |
| 20 m² lounge | £0.49 | £0.26 |
Based on average UK electricity rates and 4 hours daily usage.
Electric systems typically cost more to run, but are cheaper upfront. Wet systems are more efficient long-term.
3. Power Requirements (Wattage)
Most systems are rated between 70–150 W/m², depending on:
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Room size
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Insulation levels
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Heat-up time required
For well-insulated new builds, you may only need 35–45 W/m². Older homes may require 100–150 W/m².
Quick Cost Summary
| System Type | Average Installation Cost | Average Running Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Electric UFH | £50–£85/m² | £0.30–£0.50/hr (20 m²) |
| Hydronic UFH | £85–£110/m² | £0.15–£0.30/hr (20 m²) |
Example Scenario: 20 m² Lounge (UK)
Option 1: Electric Underfloor Heating
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Installation: £1,000–1,700
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Running cost: £0.49/hr → approx. £1.96/day
Option 2: Wet Underfloor Heating
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Installation: £1,700–2,200
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Running cost: £0.26/hr → approx. £1.05/day
Installation Tips
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Always insulate floors to prevent heat loss.
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Use a programmable thermostat for energy savings.
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Consider screed depth and floor finish when planning.
Final Thoughts
Underfloor heating offers sleek, energy-efficient comfort—but costs vary depending on system type, room size, and insulation. While electric systems are cheaper upfront, wet systems offer better long-term value in larger homes or new builds.
Before installing, consider:
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Your room’s size and insulation
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Local electricity/gas prices
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Whether you’re retrofitting or building new
