Underfloor Heating or Radiators? The Important Thing Is Having a Thermal Battery

When designing a home heating system, one of the most frequently asked questions is: "Is underfloor heating or radiators better?". Both solutions have advantages and disadvantages, but there is often an underestimated element that can improve the efficiency of both: the thermal battery.
In this article, we will analyze the differences between underfloor heating and radiators, highlighting pros and cons, installation costs, and energy consumption. Finally, we will see how integrating an I-TES thermal battery can make any system more efficient and eco-sustainable.

Underfloor Heating or Radiators: Main Differences

Underfloor Heating or Radiators: how do they work?
Underfloor Heating:

• Uses a network of pipes installed beneath the floor through which hot water flows.
• Distributes heat evenly and consistently.

Radiators:

• Generate heat through convection, warming the air around them.
• Require higher temperatures to ensure quick and effective heating.

Are radiators or underfloor heating better? Let’s find out by analyzing their advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of Underfloor Heating:

• Uniform heat distribution: warms the entire room evenly.
• Higher energy efficiency: operates at lower temperatures than radiators.
• Minimalist design: no visible elements on the walls.

Disadvantages of Underfloor Heating:

• Complex and costly installation: requires structural work.
• Longer heating times: takes longer to reach the desired temperature.

Advantages of Radiators:

• Simpler installation: involves less structural work.
• Quick heating: ideal for renovations or existing homes.

Disadvantages of Radiators:

• Higher energy consumption: operate at higher temperatures.
• Less uniform heat: may cause a warm-cold sensation in rooms.

Underfloor Heating or Radiators: Costs and Consumption

Underfloor heating or radiators: which costs more?

Installation Costs

• Underfloor Heating: High cost: requires complex installation, especially in existing homes.
• Radiators: Lower cost: simple installation suitable for quick renovations.

Energy Consumption

• Radiators: operate at approximately 60-70°C, consuming a lot of energy to quickly heat the environment.
• Underfloor Heating: operates between 30-40°C, offering significant energy savings due to low-temperature operation.

How the Thermal Battery Improves Both Systems

A thermal battery, such as those from I-TES, can store the optimal amount of heat and release it when needed. The time taken to transfer heat to the environment can be regulated by modulating the water flow inside the battery. Unlike traditional water storage, this type of thermal storage transfers and absorbs heat without changing the temperature of the material inside. This ensures a stable internal temperature, reducing the activation frequency of the heating system. Here are the main benefits of integrating the thermal battery into both heating systems:

• With Underfloor Heating:
  • Keeps stored heat for hours: for example, it allows the availability of domestic hot water without the heating system needing to operate in less optimal conditions. Alternatively, it can store excess heat produced by solar panels during sunny weather.
  • Constant storage temperature, resulting in a simpler and more effective hydraulic system structure.
• With Radiators:
  • Reduces consumption during peak hours by ensuring the heat pump operates under optimal conditions.

If you’re interested, you can explore more in our article How to Improve Your Home’s Energy Efficiency with Thermal Batteries.
Ultimately, while the choice between underfloor heating or radiators depends on the type of home and personal preferences, integrating a thermal battery is a smart step to optimize energy consumption and enhance home comfort.
Would you like to know how we can support you in optimizing domestic energy consumption with innovative solutions based on thermal batteries? Contact us.