Few upgrades change how a home feels as much as underfloor heating. It’s quiet, invisible, and keeps every room evenly warm. No radiators to plan around, no cold corners — just steady comfort. Whether you’re refurbishing a townhouse in Belgravia or fitting out a new place in Hampstead, it’s one of those touches that adds both comfort and long-term value.
But when it comes to choosing the right system, most homeowners ask the same question: should I go for electric or water underfloor heating?
At Holcman Construction, we’ve fitted both across dozens of high-end projects in London. Each has its strengths, and the right one depends on your property, your plans, and how you live. Here’s what to know before deciding.
The Basics
There are two main types of underfloor heating.
Electric systems use heating cables or mats fitted directly under the floor surface. When the power’s on, the cables warm up and gently heat the floor above. They’re simple, quick to install, and ideal for smaller areas.
Water systems (often called “wet” or “hydronic”) circulate warm water through a network of plastic pipes buried within the floor screed. They’re connected to a boiler or, increasingly, a heat pump. They take more work to install, but they’re much more efficient in the long run.
In short:
• Electric is easier and faster to fit.
• Water takes more planning but runs cheaper over time.
Installation and Practicality
If you’re updating a bathroom, ensuite, or extension, electric underfloor heating is usually the easiest option. The mats are thin and don’t require any deep floor build-up, so installation is quick with very little disruption.
Water systems, on the other hand, suit larger projects where you’re already redoing floors or screeds — like full refurbishments or new-build homes. They involve laying insulated boards, manifolds, and a full pipe network before the floor finish goes down.
A simple way to think about it:
If you’re doing one or two rooms, electric makes sense.
If you’re doing the whole property, go with water.
Comfort and Heat Performance
Both systems feel brilliant underfoot. The heat rises evenly from the floor, so you don’t get that “one warm corner” you get with radiators.
Electric systems heat up faster — usually within half an hour — but they also cool down faster once switched off. Water systems take longer to warm, yet they hold heat for much longer and maintain a steady, even temperature throughout the day.
Both can be connected to smart thermostats, which lets you control temperatures room-by-room or set automatic schedules from your phone. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in how a home feels.
Running Costs and Efficiency
Here’s where the real difference shows.
Electric underfloor heating is more expensive to run because electricity costs more than gas or renewable heat. For small spaces that you only use at certain times — say, a guest bathroom — that’s not a problem. But running electric heat across an entire home can quickly add up.
Water systems cost more to install, but they’re far cheaper to operate. They circulate water at lower temperatures, which makes them perfect for pairing with condensing boilers or heat pumps. That’s why developers and homeowners planning for the future almost always go for water.
In short:
• Electric: lower install cost, higher energy bills.
• Water: higher install cost, lower running cost.
If this is your “forever home” or a high-value property, a water system usually pays off.
Flooring Compatibility
Different floor finishes transfer heat differently.
Tiles and stone are excellent conductors, which makes them ideal for both systems.
Engineered wood works well too but needs careful temperature control to avoid expansion issues.
Carpet can work, but only if it’s a low-tog type made for underfloor heating.
The rule of thumb is simple: the thinner and denser the flooring, the better it performs. When we plan projects, we always check floor build-up and manufacturer specs to make sure the heating system performs as intended.
Maintenance and Lifespan
Once installed, both systems are reliable and need little attention.
Electric underfloor heating is almost maintenance-free. There are no moving parts, pumps, or pressure to worry about. But if a cable gets damaged, repairs can mean lifting part of the floor, which is never ideal.
Water systems need the occasional check on pressure or pump performance, but they’re built to last decades. Most clients never have to think about them once installed.
So:
• Electric = no maintenance, harder to fix if something goes wrong.
• Water = light maintenance, but easier to service over time.
Sustainability
With energy efficiency and sustainability becoming key design priorities, water systems win here too.
They operate at low temperatures and pair beautifully with air-source and ground-source heat pumps, which are becoming standard in new builds and luxury refurbishments. That combination gives you a low-carbon heating system that’s ready for the future.
Electric systems can still be green if your electricity comes from renewable sources, but in most London homes, wet systems have the edge environmentally.
What It Costs
The price varies by project size and finish, but as a general guide:
• Electric systems: £60–£90 per m² — ideal for bathrooms and small spaces.
• Water systems: £90–£130 per m² — suited to full refurbishments and new builds.
It’s also worth noting that buyers see underfloor heating as a premium feature, especially in period properties and high-end developments. So while it’s not cheap to install, it often adds value to the property overall.
Choosing What’s Right for You
If you’re looking for a quick, clean install, electric is your best bet. It’s easy to control and ideal for smaller rooms or retrofits.
If you’re planning a major refurbishment or new build, water underfloor heating is the smarter choice. It’s more efficient, future-proof, and feels fantastic to live with.
Many homeowners end up using both — electric in bathrooms where space is tight, and water throughout the main floors. That combination works well and gives you the best of both worlds.
The Holcman Perspective
Underfloor heating is one of those features that quietly elevates a home. You don’t see it, but you notice it the moment you step inside. It makes rooms feel calm, balanced, and beautifully comfortable.
At Holcman Construction, we design and install underfloor heating as part of full refurbishments and bespoke fit-outs across London. We take care of the planning, coordination with M&E teams, and final finishing so everything works together seamlessly.
If you’re considering a renovation or new build and want to explore which system suits your project, get in touch with us. We’ll walk you through the options, costs, and details that make a difference — so you can choose the best kind of warmth for your home.
