What is meant by surface heating?
The main advantage of radiant heating is the large-scale, even heat distribution, which reduces cold spots and heat leaks. This creates a comfortable living environment with minimal air circulation and less dust dispersal. Radiant heating systems can also be optimally combined with modern low-temperature heat generators such as heat pumps or solar thermal systems.
Which manufacturers of surface heating systems are there in Germany?
Germany is home to a number of renowned manufacturers of underfloor heating systems. Among the best-known providers are Uponor, Viega, Rehau, Roth, and Brötje. These companies have been offering products for thermal systems for many years, ranging from underfloor heating and ceiling systems to wall heating.
In addition to the major manufacturers, several specialized producers have also established themselves, offering innovative systems such as carbon foil heating or thin-layer drywall solutions. Competition ensures that new system optimizations, improved control technology, and high quality standards are constantly available. Buyers should check the product warranties, service offerings, and references of the respective manufacturers before making a decision.
What is the power output of a surface heating system?
The heating output of a surface heating system depends on the design, material thickness, installation method, and the desired surface temperature. Typically, the specific heating output for wet systems is between 70 and 100 watts per square meter, while for drywall systems, it's closer to 50 and 80 watts per square meter. Electric surface heating systems typically have a heating output of 80 to 150 watts per square meter.
The actual power consumption depends on the building's heat requirements, insulation, and individual comfort requirements. Professional planning by a heating engineer or energy consultant ensures that the designed heating output is sufficient to maintain the desired room temperatures even at low outside temperatures.
Can underfloor heating be retrofitted?
Yes, in many cases, underfloor heating can be retrofitted. There are specially developed drywall systems that have a low installation height and are suitable for renovations. Heating panels or mats are laid on the existing screed or subfloor and covered with flooring.
In older buildings, the load-bearing capacity of the subfloor should be checked in advance. Wet construction systems usually require a screed and are more complex. Dry construction systems, on the other hand, can be used with insulation panels and heating cables from a height of just a few centimeters and reduce downtime during installation.
Is underfloor heating subsidized?
Yes, in many cases, underfloor heating systems are supported by federal and state funding programs. In particular, the installation of underfloor heating in combination with renewable heat generators such as heat pumps, pellet heating systems, or solar thermal systems can be subsidized by the Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA).
The Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (KfW) also offers low-interest loans and repayment grants for energy-efficient renovations. Eligibility requirements and funding amounts vary depending on the federal state, system, and energy-efficient house standard. An energy consultant can assist with the application and planning process.
Which heating system has a future?
Underfloor heating systems combined with heat pumps, solar thermal systems, or biomass boilers are considered sustainable heating systems. They operate with low flow temperatures and make optimal use of renewable energy sources.Hybrid systems that intelligently combine different heat generators are also gaining in importance.
In addition, the integration of smart home technology and digital control technology is becoming increasingly important for optimizing energy consumption. Radiant heating with room thermostats and zone controls enables demand-based control and reduces operating costs in the long term.
What is carbon surface heating?
Carbon floor heating is electrically powered and based on thin heating foils with carbon elements. These foils are installed directly beneath the floor covering and heat the surface using infrared radiation. Carbon heating systems are characterized by fast heat-up times and high levels of radiation.
Installation is often done in drywall systems with a low installation height. Carbon tiles or mats can be flexibly cut to size and allow for precise installation. They are particularly suitable for retrofits when minimal space can be wasted and rapid heat development is desired.
How many kW of heating for 100 sqm?
The required heating output for 100 square meters of living space varies depending on the insulation standard and geographical location. In a well-insulated new building, 50 to 70 watts per square meter is often sufficient, which corresponds to a heating output requirement of 5 to 7 kW for 100 square meters. In older buildings with poorer insulation, the requirement can be 80 to 100 watts per square meter, or 8 to 10 kW.
For an accurate calculation, a heating load calculation should be performed by a specialist. This takes into account factors such as the U-values of the components, air exchange rates, and solar gains.
What is the radiation component of underfloor heating?
The radiation component of conventional underfloor heating typically accounts for between 70 and 80 percent of the total heat output. The remainder is accounted for by convection, a gentle air circulation over the warm floor surface. Radiant heat creates a comfortable room without drafts.
A high proportion of radiation ensures even temperature stratification from foot to head height and protects against cold floors during the heating season. At the same time, the low air movement minimizes dust turbulence and improves indoor air quality.
Which heating system for geothermal energy?
Geothermal energy typically uses a geothermal heat pump. This pump extracts the heat stored in the ground via ground collectors or geothermal probes and raises it to heatable temperatures. Surface heating systems with low flow temperatures are ideal for heat pump operation.
A combination of geothermal energy and underfloor heating is particularly efficient in new buildings and energy-efficiently renovated existing buildings. Surface heating distributes the generated heat over large areas, thus further reducing electricity costs for heat pumps.
What are the disadvantages of underfloor heating without screed?
Underfloor heating systems without screed, such as drywall systems, have the advantage of low installation heights, but also some disadvantages. They offer less thermal storage mass than screed, so they cool down faster and the residual heat is reduced when switched off. Therefore, the control system must be more precise to avoid temperature fluctuations.
In addition, acoustic decoupling is often less effective with drywall constructions. Increased impact sound levels can occur if insufficient insulation material is used. Compatibility with the flooring must also be considered, as not all flooring can be installed directly on drywall panels.
How much does it cost to retrofit underfloor heating?
Milling a screed for subsequent wet underfloor heating installation is typically billed per linear meter of groove. Depending on the machine and type of screed, the cost per meter of milling groove is approximately €20 to €35. In addition, there are material costs for piping and insulation, as well as screed and tiling work.
Depending on the room size and the effort involved, the total cost can range from €80 to €150 per square meter. A precise cost estimate from a local specialist will provide definitive figures for your individual situation.
Is underfloor heating tax deductible?
Craftsmen's services for the installation of underfloor heating can be claimed as a household-related service. Up to 20 percent of labor costs can be deducted from taxable income, up to a maximum of €1,200 per calendar year.
Material costs are not deductible. A proper invoice with stated labor costs and payment by bank transfer are required. The tax return must include the relevant receipts.
How much does it cost to retrofit underfloor heating?
The costs for retrofitting underfloor heating vary greatly depending on the system (wet or dry construction), the subfloor, and the room size. Dry construction systems start at around €50 to €80 per square meter, including insulation, heating elements, and installation. Wet systems with screed construction usually range between €100 and €150 per square meter.
Additional costs may arise from flooring work. A detailed quote from a specialist company will provide a precise estimate for your specific project.
Can underfloor heating be milled into concrete?
Yes, cutting underfloor heating into concrete is technically possible, but it's a complex process. Heavy, specialized equipment must precisely cut open the concrete to accommodate the heating pipes. The slots are then cleaned, the pipes are inserted, and sealed with suitable filler material.
The work generates significant dust and noise emissions and requires careful disposal of concrete residue. Therefore, this method is usually more expensive than installing a drywall system or completely resurfacing the screed.
When is underfloor heating not possible?
Underfloor heating is not feasible with very low ceiling heights, as the structure disproportionately reduces the room height. It may also be unsuitable in rooms with extremely high humidity levels (such as some industrial environments) or on load-bearing subfloors with low insulation capacity.
Installation may also be impossible in listed buildings or with certain floor coverings that cannot tolerate high surface temperatures. A static and structural assessment should always be conducted beforehand.
What are the disadvantages of retrofitting an underfloor heating system?
Subsequent milling for pipe ducts causes structural interventions that generate dust, noise, and dirt. Cracks can occur in the adjacent screed if the milling depth is not precisely maintained. After the pipes are installed, the screed or tile must be re-laid, which entails additional costs and labor.
In addition, the milled grooves are often irregular and can easily impair heat transfer if the filler material and screed are not applied optimally. In many cases, a complete screed installation is more economical.
What alternatives are there to underfloor heating?
There are various alternatives to underfloor heating for heat distribution: radiators, wall heating, ceiling heating, heating strips or skirting board heating.Radiators are easy to install and quickly adjustable, but they generate more air circulation and are not as effective over a wide area.
Wall and ceiling heating systems also work with radiation and may be more suitable for certain buildings. Baseboard heating systems offer a simple retrofit solution, but require more wall space. Each system has specific advantages and disadvantages that should be considered during planning.
Contact and advice
For individual advice on surface heating and funding options, please contact us by phone at +49 39262 8787 21 or by email to verkauf@gema-net.de.
