How long has underfloor heating been in use?

Underfloor heating systems date back over 7,000 years. Excavations in modern-day North Korea have uncovered heating systems under the floor at settlements from that era. Ancient civilizations, including the Chinese, Greeks, and Romans, further developed these systems to heat homes and public buildings.

What are the advantages of underfloor heating over traditional radiators?

Underfloor heating systems distribute heat evenly, eliminating cold spots in rooms. They are compatible with most flooring types, including slate, tile, wood, vinyl, and carpets. Additionally, underfloor heating is more hygienic, as it avoids the dust accumulation common with radiators, and allows for more aesthetically pleasing and spacious room designs.

Is underfloor heating compatible with heat pump technology?

Yes, underfloor heating works well with heat pump technology. Research has shown that underfloor heating systems can have lower running costs than traditional central heating systems when paired with heat pumps. The robust pipes require minimal maintenance, and modern control systems make it easy to manage temperatures in individual rooms.

Underfloor Heating – 7,000 Years in the Making

Q: Does Go Geothermal offer design services for underfloor heating?

Go Geothermal offers a comprehensive underfloor heating design service, including AutoCAD plans, commissioning details, zone requirements, and electrical schematics—all free of charge with your order. They provide a fast turnaround on project enquiries, delivering detailed quotes within 3-5 days upon receiving your plans in DWG format.

3 January 2025

If you’ve ever thought of underfloor heating as a recent invention beyond most people’s price bracket, think again.

The technology of underfloor heating systems actually dates back thousands of years, and all that learning has resulted in modern-day options offering affordable, eco-friendly solutions that can deliver long-term savings.

Excavations in modern-day North Korea have uncovered heating systems under the floor at settlements dating back over 7,000 years. Locals built fire pits and fed the hot smoke through a system of trenches to warm the floors in homes.

The Chinese, Greeks, and Romans would all develop the idea further, using it to heat not only homes but also public buildings such as baths and hammams. As technology advanced, the fire pit was replaced with steam, hot water, and electricity. Liverpool Cathedral, built in 1904, uses a heating system based on the same ancient hypocaust principles.

The Evolution of Underfloor Heating Design

Advances in piping this century mean the height of buildings is no longer a barrier, and all new and most existing buildings can now incorporate a heating design tailored to their needs.

The advantage of underfloor heating systems (UHS) over traditional radiators is their ability to distribute heat evenly, eliminating cold spots in rooms. Walking into a space with underfloor heating provides an immediate uplifting experience as warmth radiates up from your feet. These systems are compatible with most flooring types, including slate, tile, wood, vinyl, and carpets.

And UHS are more hygienic than radiators which can be difficult to clean behind and act as a breeding ground for dust mites and other unwelcome visitors.

Replacing radiators with UHS can make walls more aesthetically pleasing, easier for decorating and more spacious with furniture able to be pushed back, flush to walls.

Underfloor heating works well with heat pump technology and research has shown that cost wise, UHS can have lower running costs than traditional central heating systems. The pipes are so robust they require very little maintenance and modern day control systems make it easy to switch on and off and vary the temperature in all or individual rooms.

Bespoke Heating Solutions from Go Geothermal

At Go Geothermal, we understand that each project is unique. That’s why we offer a full underfloor heating design service, including AutoCAD plans, commissioning details, zone requirements, and electrical schematics—all free of charge with your order.

With our advanced software, we provide a fast turnaround on project enquiries, delivering a detailed quote within 3-5 days. Simply send us your plans in DWG format, and we’ll take care of the rest.

Explore the innovative combination of underfloor heating systems and heat pumps for underfloor heating with Go Geothermal. Enhance your space with tailored solutions built to last.