Underfloor heating can be a fantastic way to create a comfortable, energy-efficient home. However, many homeowners struggle with high energy bills due to inefficient temperature settings. Setting your underfloor heating at the wrong temperature or running it for too many hours can lead to unnecessary energy consumption and increased costs. But don’t worry—there are ways to optimize your underfloor heating for maximum efficiency. Keep reading to learn how to set your underfloor heating at the most economical temperature for your home.
The most economical setting for underfloor heating is one that maintains a consistent, moderate temperature, typically between 18°C and 22°C. Using a programmable thermostat and optimizing your heating schedule can help you reduce energy consumption and save money without sacrificing comfort.
With the right temperature settings, underfloor heating can provide consistent warmth while keeping energy costs low. Let’s dive deeper into how you can set your system to operate most efficiently and save on energy bills.

How many hours a day should underfloor heating be on?
When it comes to underfloor heating, many homeowners wonder how long the system should run each day. The answer depends largely on the type of system you have and your heating requirements, but generally, it is most economical to have the system running for around 6-8 hours a day.
Underfloor heating works efficiently when it maintains a steady temperature over time. This is especially true for wet systems (those that circulate water through pipes). These systems take longer to heat up and cool down, so turning them on and off frequently is not ideal. If you’re using an electric underfloor heating system, it may be more flexible in terms of scheduling, as it heats up more quickly.
Ideally, you should set your underfloor heating to run throughout the day on a lower temperature setting, especially if you have a programmable thermostat. During the night or when you are away, you can lower the temperature or turn the system off, reducing energy consumption.
For maximum efficiency, try to schedule the heating during the hours when you’ll be at home or when the temperature in your home dips too low. Some systems allow you to create zones, so you can have different temperatures in various areas of the house based on their usage.
How to reduce the cost of underfloor heating?
Reducing the cost of underfloor heating comes down to better temperature control and using energy-efficient practices. One of the first things you can do is ensure your thermostat is set at an optimal temperature, usually between 18°C and 22°C, as mentioned earlier. Setting the thermostat too high will waste energy, while too low of a setting can leave you feeling uncomfortable.
Another way to reduce costs is to use a timer or programmable thermostat to control when your heating comes on and off. This way, you can ensure that the system is only running when it’s needed—whether that’s in the morning, during the day when you’re home, or in the evening.
Additionally, regular maintenance and checking your system for leaks, airlocks, or faulty components can help your heating system run more efficiently, reducing unnecessary costs. Insulating your home properly and ensuring that your floors are well insulated can also prevent heat loss and reduce the need for higher temperatures, leading to more economical operation.
Finally, you can save on energy bills by installing a mixing valve to regulate the water temperature that flows through your underfloor heating pipes. This ensures that the water is heated to an efficient level and not too hot, reducing overall energy consumption.
Is it cheaper to have heating on constant or timed?
When considering whether it’s more cost-effective to keep your underfloor heating on constant or to use a timed schedule, the answer generally favors using a timer or a programmable thermostat. Constant heating may seem convenient, but it can actually result in higher energy consumption because your system is working at full capacity all the time.
By using a timer or programmable thermostat, you can set your system to come on only when you need it. For example, you could set your heating to turn on 30 minutes before you wake up or before you return home from work. This way, you avoid having the heating running when you’re not at home, and it will still be warm when you need it.
Using a timed system allows you to have better control over the temperature and when your heating is on, which can lead to energy savings over time. However, if your system is not well-insulated or inefficient, it may still be better to keep the temperature constant at a low setting rather than having the system work too hard to heat up repeatedly.
For most homeowners, a timed or programmed heating schedule will provide more control and savings in the long run.

How to save money on underfloor heating?
Saving money on underfloor heating doesn’t have to be difficult. There are a few simple strategies that can help you get the most out of your system while keeping energy consumption low.
- Set the thermostat at a moderate temperature: As we’ve mentioned before, setting your underfloor heating temperature between 18°C and 22°C will provide comfort without wasting energy.
- Use a programmable thermostat: Program your system to run only when you need it. This ensures that you aren’t wasting energy by heating your home when no one is around.
- Maintain your system: Regularly check for any leaks, airlocks, or malfunctions in your system. A poorly functioning system will waste energy and cost you more.
- Ensure your home is well-insulated: Insulation is key for maintaining heat. Make sure that your floors are properly insulated to prevent heat loss. You should also consider adding insulation to your walls and windows.
- Use zoning: If you have a large home, you might want to consider zoning your underfloor heating system. This way, you can control the temperature in different rooms and only heat the areas you use most.
By implementing these simple tips, you can significantly reduce your energy bills and keep your underfloor heating running efficiently.
Summary
The most economical setting for underfloor heating is a moderate temperature, ideally between 18°C and 22°C, controlled by a programmable thermostat. Using a timer, insulating your home, and maintaining your system are also important for reducing energy consumption and costs. With the right settings, you can enjoy a comfortable home while keeping your energy bills low.
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