Underfloor Heating in Barnstaple

Reform Energy installs two primary types of underfloor heating systems across Devon. Wet (hydronic) systems circulate warm water through pipes embedded in the floor, offering high efficiency and compatibility with all heat sources, including renewable technologies like heat pumps. Electric underfloor heating uses thin heating mats or cables directly under your flooring, ideal for single room installations or retrofitting projects where minimal floor height increase is essential. Our experienced teams work with both new-build properties and period renovations throughout Devon, providing bespoke designs that consider your property's specific heating requirements, insulation levels, and floor construction to deliver optimal comfort and efficiency.

Underfloor heating systems installed by Reform Energy operate 15-40% more efficiently than traditional radiators in Devon properties. This efficiency advantage stems from the lower operating temperatures required (35-45°C for underfloor heating versus 65-75°C for radiators) and the more even heat distribution throughout the space. Wet underfloor systems pair exceptionally well with heat pumps, enhancing overall system efficiency by 10-15%. The radiant heat pattern created by underfloor heating also reduces air circulation, minimising heat loss and creating a more comfortable environment at lower thermostat settings. Our Devon customers typically report energy savings of £150-£300 annually after switching from radiator systems to properly designed underfloor heating.

Yes, Reform Energy specialises in retrofitting underfloor heating solutions in existing Devon properties, including period homes and listed buildings. For minimal floor height increases (typically 15-30mm), we offer low-profile water systems or electric heating mats that integrate with your existing floors. When complete floor reconstruction is planned, we can install standard wet systems with proper insulation for maximum efficiency. Our experienced surveyors assess your property's specific requirements, considering factors like existing heat sources, floor construction, insulation levels, and room heights. While installation in existing properties involves more considerations than new builds, our expertise in Devon's traditional building styles ensures sympathetic integration that respects architectural features while delivering modern heating performance.

Most flooring types are compatible with Reform Energy's underfloor heating systems, with some performing better than others. Ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone tiles offer excellent thermal conductivity and heat retention, making them ideal choices for Devon properties, particularly in kitchens, bathrooms, and conservatories. Engineered wood, luxury vinyl tile (LVT), and quality laminates also work well when properly specified for underfloor heating use. Solid hardwood requires careful selection and acclimatisation but can be suitable with appropriate expansion gaps. For maximum efficiency with carpeted areas, we recommend choosing carpet and underlay with combined thermal resistance below 2.5 tog. Our designers provide guidance on optimal flooring choices during the planning process to ensure comfort and efficiency.

Installation timeframes for Reform Energy's underfloor heating systems vary based on project scope and property type. For a standard three-bedroom Devon home, a complete wet underfloor heating system typically takes 3-5 days for pipe installation, followed by screed application requiring 7-10 days drying time before final flooring installation. Electric systems can be installed more quickly, often within 1-3 days for a similar sized property, with minimal drying time required. Retrofit projects in existing Devon buildings may take longer depending on floor construction and access considerations. Our project management team provides detailed timelines during consultation, coordinates with other tradespeople involved in your renovation, and ensures minimal disruption to your property during the installation process.

Underfloor heating from Reform Energy is highly cost-effective to run in Devon's moderate climate. While installation costs are higher than radiator systems (typically £80-£120/m² for wet systems and £50-£80/m² for electric), running costs are lower due to greater efficiency and compatibility with renewable heat sources. Wet underfloor heating paired with a heat pump can reduce heating bills by 25-40% compared to conventional radiator systems with gas boilers. Electric underfloor heating costs approximately 10-15p per square metre daily when used as primary heating, though costs vary based on insulation levels, usage patterns, and electricity tariffs. Our smart controls further reduce operating costs by 15-20% through precise zoning and optimised temperature management specifically designed for Devon's climate patterns.

Reform Energy installs sophisticated zoned control systems allowing independent temperature management in each room or zone of your Devon home. Digital thermostats monitor both air and floor temperatures, maintaining perfect comfort while protecting sensitive flooring materials. Our smart controls include programmable schedules, remote access via smartphone apps, and learning capabilities that adapt to your lifestyle and Devon's weather patterns. For maximum efficiency, weather compensation controls adjust system operation based on outdoor temperatures, particularly beneficial during Devon's varied seasonal conditions. Optional features include geolocation services that automatically adjust heating based on occupants' proximity to home, potentially saving 10-15% on annual heating costs while ensuring you always return to a comfortable environment.

Underfloor heating systems from Reform Energy integrate perfectly with renewable energy sources, making them ideal for environmentally conscious Devon homeowners. Wet underfloor heating operates at lower temperatures (35-45°C) than radiators, working exceptionally efficiently with air and ground source heat pumps—increasing overall system efficiency by 15-25%. Solar thermal systems can supplement water heating for underfloor systems during transitional seasons. For electric underfloor heating, integration with solar PV can substantially reduce operating costs, particularly when combined with battery storage. Our designs often incorporate multiple renewable technologies to create holistic energy solutions tailored to Devon's climate conditions, maximising both carbon reduction and energy cost savings throughout the year.

Properly installed underfloor heating systems from Reform Energy require minimal maintenance compared to conventional heating systems. Wet systems benefit from annual pressure checks and occasional system balancing, which we can perform during regular boiler or heat pump servicing visits. The absence of exposed components means no bleeding of radiators or dust accumulation concerns. Electric systems are virtually maintenance-free, with quality elements typically lasting 25+ years. Both system types should have controls checked annually to ensure optimal performance. Our extended warranties cover components for up to 25 years for pipes and heating elements, with manufacturer-backed guarantees providing peace of mind. For Devon's hard water areas, we recommend appropriate water treatment to prevent limescale accumulation in wet systems.

Underfloor heating systems have longer initial warm-up times than radiators, typically requiring 1-3 hours to reach optimal comfort levels in Devon properties. However, Reform Energy's smart control systems address this characteristic through intelligent scheduling, learning your patterns to ensure rooms are warm when needed. Once operating temperature is achieved, the system maintains stable, comfortable conditions with minimal temperature fluctuation—a significant comfort advantage over radiator systems. While response times vary based on floor construction and coverings (tile floors respond faster than carpeted surfaces), the consistent heat distribution eliminates cold spots common with radiator heating. For Devon's climate patterns, we often program gentle background heating with boosted temperatures during occupied periods for maximum comfort and efficiency.