February-24-10

Underfloor heating DIY installation

posted by crossteam

DIY installation of underfloor heating kits has become increasingly popular over the last few decades. Electric underfloor heating became prevalent in the 1960s but was at that time somewhat difficult and costly to install. This was because electric cables were laid in thick concrete pathways within the floor.  Water underfloor heating, which had been popularised in the early twentieth century by the American architect Frank Lloyd Wright, used a system of concrete water pipes connected to the main water supply.

Nowadays however, underfloor heating DIY has become relatively straightforward, with underfloor heating kits sold in many DIY shops or online. Kits will include a full set of instructions as well as technical support options, and the material is straightforward to use and light in nature.

Electric cables, heating mats or water pipes have to be carefully placed in the selected underfloor area, with close attention to an equal distribution of the material. Electrical control wiring is a key requirement. Also, before the material is laid out it is important to measure the amount needed in order to cover the entire selected area.

When laying out water underfloor heating pipes it is important to remove air from the system before first use.  This is done in the same way as in a regular water radiator system. Testing the thermostat is also important before final use. When first using the system, it is advised to raise the temperature gradually over a number of days so as not to overload the system.

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