How much does underfloor heating cost to run?
Updated: Sep 4
The cost of electricity for underfloor heating is influenced by three factors: the size of the area being heated, the wattage of the underfloor heating installed per square metre, and the subfloor under the heating.
Heatwell installs underfloor heating cable at: 180W/m2 under slate, 150W/m2 under tile, 120W/m2 under engineered wood or vinyl, and 100W/m2 under carpet. However, other installers my not install to Heatwell standards.
The subfloor determines how efficient the heating is. The subfloor will determine how often the heating needs to kick in. The best is an insulated concrete floor (common practice in new NZ homes). Installation onto tile and slate underlay is also good. Installation on an uninsulated concrete floor (common in older NZ homes) is very inefficient.
The formula is: (kW cost/(1000/W per m2))*m2 per hour. This formula assumes 100% run time, which is not realistic. 60% is more realistic. Run time will be determined by the subfloor.
For example: Electricity costs 21c per kW in NZ (available on your electric bill). Heating is under tile is 150m2. The area being heated is 3m2. (21/(1000/150)) x 3 = 9.445c. That's at 100%run time. 9.445 * 0.6 = 5.667c per hour is a more realistic electricity cost.
The analysis of electricity costs for underfloor heating reveals significant insights. The formula provided is a useful tool, but the assumptions made can greatly impact accuracy. Considering real-world factors like run time is crucial. Additionally, understanding the specific wattage for different materials, such as those installed by Heatwell, helps consumers like Leon make informed decisions regarding energy efficiency and costs.
The discussion around the costs associated with underfloor heating is quite intricate. It’s interesting to note how different wattages impact energy consumption, which can vary widely based on installation types. Understanding the formula is crucial for accurate budgeting. However, I wonder how often real-world factors, such as insulation quality, affect the calculation of Wildz in this context? Balancing theoretical costs with practical use will be essential for homeowners.
The article provides a nuanced view of energy costs associated with underfloor heating, particularly highlighting how size and wattage translate into consumption patterns. The formula offered is practical but heavily relies on assumptions. Understanding electricity costs is essential for homeowners. As we explore energy efficiency, this insight could become a Kiwi Treasure for many considering underfloor heating systems.