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Underfloor heating in Australia: choosing a system

Electric underfloor heating is a quiet, hidden way to warm a room from the floor up. This guide covers what it is like, how to choose a system and how to look after a heated floor.

2 min read

Carbon heating film laid across a floor while its connections are made
Illustrative: carbon film on a floor before the finished flooring is laid.

What it is like

  • A warm floor. The floor surface is warmed, so it no longer feels cold underfoot.
  • Radiant warmth. The floor warms the people and furnishings in the room directly.
  • Hidden. The heating sits within the floor, so there is nothing on the walls.
  • Quiet. There are no fans.

How warm a room feels, and how quickly, depends on the floor, the insulation, the specified output and the controls.

Choosing by floor finish

The floor finish narrows the choice quickly: carbon film for floating timber, laminate and suitable carpet; under-tile cable or ultra-thin cable for tiles; and in-slab cable for a new concrete slab. The article Electric underfloor heating, explained has a full table.

Choosing by room

Floor heating is often considered for bathrooms, kitchens and living areas, but suitability depends on each room's floor and construction rather than the room type. Fixed cabinetry is planned into the layout, because heating is not placed under it.

Controls

Controls are specified to suit your rooms and project. Ron recommends suitable thermostats, sensors and timers in the quote.

Caring for a heated floor

  • Follow the flooring maker's guidance for heated floors, including rugs and heavy items.
  • Keep the controls and any documents from the installation.
  • If something does not seem right, contact your electrician or Ron. Do not open up the floor or the wiring yourself.

Talk to Ron

Talk to Ron about your project.

Call or email with the rooms, the finishes and your timing, or send the short enquiry form on the contact page.