Why Is Wattage Important for Underfloor Heating?
Wattage measures the power required to heat a space, typically calculated in watts per square meter. The right wattage ensures efficient heating, balancing comfort and energy costs. Choosing the correct power level depends on factors such as insulation quality, room size, and heat loss.
Our range of electric underfloor heating systems, including Megawarm®, ProWarm™, and Gorilla®, come in three wattage options: 100 watts, 150 watts, and 200 watts. Below, we explain which system best suits different spaces and needs.
Uses for 100-Watt Electric Underfloor Heating
Primary Heating in New Builds: Ideal for modern, well-insulated homes, 100-watt heating mats meet the recommended heating requirements of 50-70 watts per square meter. These mats provide steady warmth for living areas, bedrooms, and offices.
Secondary Heating for Added Comfort: If you already have a central heating system but want extra warmth underfoot, 100-watt mats are perfect. They work particularly well under tiles and LVT flooring, which heat up quickly and retain warmth.
Best for Low-Heat Loss Areas: Rooms with excellent insulation benefit from 100-watt systems, as they provide efficient and cost-effective heating.
Cost & Efficiency: 100-watt systems are the most energy-efficient option. While they take slightly longer to heat up compared to 150W or 200W mats, they are economical when paired with insulation boards.
Estimated Running Costs:
2.5m² Bathroom: Around £11.19 per month
1m² WC: About £4.47 per month
(Based on 24.86p per kWh and 8 hours of daily use.)
Uses for 150-Watt Electric Underfloor Heating
Primary Heating in Older Homes: For properties with moderate insulation, 150-watt mats provide the necessary heat output. They meet the demands of 70-150 watts per square meter, making them ideal for kitchens, living rooms, and conservatories.
Heating High-Heat Loss Areas: Bathrooms, rooms with large windows, and spaces with high ceilings benefit from 150-watt systems. They heat up faster than 100W mats and maintain warmth effectively.
Compatibility with Various Flooring Types: These mats work well under tiles, engineered wood, and LVT flooring. Pairing them with insulation boards like Megawarm® EPS or ProWarm™ XP-Pro ensures efficient heat distribution.
Cost & Efficiency: 150-watt mats use more power but heat rooms more quickly, reducing the need for extended run times.
Estimated Running Costs:
2.5m² Bathroom: Around £16.78 per month
1m² WC: About £6.71 per month
(Based on 24.86p per kWh and 8 hours of daily use.)
Uses for 200-Watt Electric Underfloor Heating
Ideal for High-Heat Loss Rooms: Conservatories, basements, and rooms with large glass areas or poor insulation require 200-watt mats for sufficient heating.
Fast Heat-Up Time: These mats warm up floors significantly quicker than lower-wattage options, making them ideal for short-term use areas like bathrooms.
Best for Tiled Floors: Tiles conduct and retain heat well, making them a perfect match for 200-watt systems. This setup ensures optimal warmth, even in cold environments.
Cost & Efficiency: While 200-watt mats consume more energy, they can be used in shorter bursts for effective heating. Insulation boards and smart thermostats help maximize efficiency.
Estimated Running Costs:
2.5m² Bathroom: Around £22.37 per month
1m² WC: About £8.95 per month
(Based on 24.86p per kWh and 8 hours of daily use.)
Tips for Efficient Use of Electric Underfloor Heating
Use Insulation Boards: Reduce heat loss by installing Megawarm® or ProWarm™ insulation boards.
Options include:
Backer-Pro Tile Backer (6mm thick, ideal for tile floors)
XP-Pro Board (6mm thick, suitable for tile and wood floors)
EPS & Profoam Boards (6mm thick, best for wood, vinyl, and carpeted floors)
Optimize Temperature Settings: Set heating to around 16°C during off periods to improve heat-up efficiency and reduce energy costs.
Use a Smart Thermostat: Automating your underfloor heating schedule helps cut unnecessary energy use and maintain comfortable temperatures.
Choosing the Right Wattage for Your Home
Selecting the right underfloor heating system depends on your room type, insulation level, and heating needs.
For new builds & well-insulated homes: 100W mats are the most efficient choice.
For standard homes & higher heat loss areas: 150W mats offer a balance between cost and performance.
For poorly insulated or high-heat loss rooms: 200W mats provide quick and effective heating.
Looking for the best heating solution? Explore our electric and water underfloor heating systems to find the perfect fit for your home.
For more details, visit our website or contact our team for expert advice!
Calculation
The formula to calculate the electric underfloor heating running cost is:
Cost =Power (kW) × Usage (hours) × Electricity Cost (£/kWh)
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