How does underfloor heating work together with other energy sources?
Underfloor heating is a popular heating system that offers comfort and energy efficiency. It works well together with other energy sources, which enables a versatile and sustainable heating solution. In this article, we look at how floor heating works together with different energy sources and what advantages this combination offers.
Basic principle of underfloor heating
Underfloor heating works in such a way that heat is transferred through the floor into the room air. This can be done with either electric floor heating or water circulation floor heating. Electric floor heating uses electric cables or mats, while in a water circulation system, the heat is transferred through pipes that run under the floor.
Underfloor heating and heat pumps
Heat pumps are energy-efficient devices that transfer heat from outside air, soil or water to indoor spaces. Underfloor heating works perfectly together with heat pumps, because both systems use low-temperature heat sources. This combination can significantly reduce energy consumption and heating costs.
- Air source heat pump: An air source heat pump takes heat from the outside air and transfers it indoors. Underfloor heating can use this heat effectively, because it works at lower temperatures than traditional radiators.
- Ground source heat pump: A ground source heat pump utilizes the stable temperature of the soil. This combination is particularly energy efficient, because the geothermal heat pump can produce heat at very low costs.
- Water heat pump: A water heat pump uses the heat of waterways or groundwater. This is also a very efficient way to generate heat for underfloor heating.
Underfloor heating and solar energy
Solar energy is a renewable energy source that can be combined with underfloor heating. Solar collectors can produce heat that is stored in a water tank and used for underfloor heating. This reduces dependence on fossil fuels and reduces the carbon footprint.
- Solar collectors: Solar collectors collect the sun’s heat and transfer it to the water storage tank. This heat can then be used for underfloor heating.
- Solar panels: Solar panels produce electricity that can power an electric underfloor heating system. This is especially useful if more electricity is produced than consumed, in which case the excess electricity can be stored or sold back to the grid.
Underfloor heating and traditional energy sources
Underfloor heating can also be combined with traditional energy sources, such as gas, oil or district heating. Although these are not as environmentally friendly as renewable energy sources, they can provide a stable and reliable source of heat.
- Gas: Gas heating can produce heat for water circulation floor heating. This is a common solution in areas with good gas infrastructure.
- Oil: Oil heating can also work with underfloor heating, but it is a less environmentally friendly option.
- District heating: District heating is an efficient and environmentally friendly way to produce heat, especially in urban areas. Underfloor heating can use the heat produced by district heating very efficiently.
Summary
Underfloor heating is a versatile and energy-efficient heating system that works well together with different energy sources. By combining underfloor heating with renewable energy sources, such as heat pumps and solar energy, significant savings in energy costs can be achieved and environmental impact reduced. Traditional energy sources can also provide a stable heat source for underfloor heating, although they are not as environmentally friendly. A holistic approach that utilizes multiple energy sources can provide the best possible solution to your heating needs.
Sources:
Motiva: Heat pumps
Solar electricity for the home: Using solar heat
Energy Agency: District heating
