Underfloor Heating Costs in 2025: Installation & Running Prices Explained

Looking for a warm, consistent home environment without bulky radiators? Underfloor heating is steadily gaining ground across the UK, and with good reason. Comfort, style, and efficiency. What's not to like? Of course, most homeowners want to know: what's the real cost in 2025? Here's your honest, in-depth guide to installation, running prices, and how the numbers compare if you're building new or upgrading an older property.

The Basics: Electric vs. Wet Underfloor Heating

First, let's clarify the two main types. Electric systems use mats or wires beneath the flooring, powered by your mains supply. Wet (or water-based) systems circulate warm water from your boiler or heat pump through a network of pipes under the floor. Both throw off that wonderful, even warmth, but each comes with its own price tag and fitting demands. Understanding the electric vs water underfloor heating comparison is crucial for making the right choice for your home.

Average 2025 Installation Costs in the UK

Here's where the price conversation starts. For electric underfloor heating, installation in 2025 typically runs between £50-£75 per m². Simpler, less invasive fitting means this is often the go-to for bathrooms, kitchens, or single rooms, especially in retrofits. When you're looking at wet systems, expect £60-£85 per m² as a general range, but costs can rise further for larger or more involved projects. It's not unheard of for comprehensive wet systems in luxury new builds or full-home renovations to reach £90-£150 per m² once all requirements are considered.

It's worth noting that prices don't just include the heating elements themselves. You'll need to budget for insulation, floor preparation, controls, and, if you're opting for a wet system, highly skilled plumbing work. Electric options often save on labour, while wet systems usually require professional installation to guarantee safety and efficiency.

New Builds vs. Retrofits: Why the Difference Matters

Are you starting fresh with a new-build, or are you retrofitting an existing property? The answer will shape your underfloor heating budget. New constructions tend to be far more cost-effective for installation. Why? There's no need to rip up old floors or tackle surprises lurking beneath the surface. All systems can be laid before flooring goes down, with fewer workarounds.

For new-builds, expect electric underfloor heating to stay toward the lower end of the price range (around £50-£60 per m²). Wet systems benefit the most, often coming in at £60-£90 per m², thanks to straightforward access and fewer obstacles.

Retrofits, on the other hand, warrant a careful approach to budgeting. Once you're working with existing floors and room layouts, labour demands climb. For retrofitting, electric systems can creep closer to £75 per m², while wet underfloor heating in older homes may land upwards of £130 per m², especially if extensive floor levelling or insulation upgrades are needed. Some specialist kits, such as ultra-low profile wet systems for period homes, can push the total even higher.

Is the effort worth it? Many homeowners report that switching from radiators to underfloor heating in a renovation breathes new life into old spaces. Just know that patience (and careful planning) pays off to avoid unexpected overspends.

Ongoing Running Costs: Electric vs. Wet Heating Efficiency

Let's face it, installation is only half the story. The real test comes when you start paying the bills each month. Many UK homes want to know: which system is the most economical to run?

Electric underfloor heating draws directly from your home's electricity. In 2025, average electricity rates in the UK hover around £0.24-£0.27 per kWh. A typical electric system uses roughly 150W per m² when running. For a 10m² room, running your system for eight hours a day throughout the heating season, you could see monthly bills of £60-£90 depending on insulation and usage patterns. Electric is often best reserved for smaller spaces. Think en-suite bathrooms or compact kitchens. Where that extra comfort doesn't tip the budget.

Wet underfloor heating, on the other hand, circulates warm water from a boiler or heat pump. When paired with efficient heat sources, wet systems deliver more affordable heat per m². Natural gas, heat pumps, or renewably-powered boilers can bring significant savings. The ballpark figure for wet systems is usually £0.12-£0.18 per hour for a similar-sized room. Potentially cutting running costs by a third or more compared with electric alternatives.

There's also the question of control. Modern thermostats allow you to zone your underfloor heating, only warming rooms that you're using. This smart setup plays a crucial role in shrinking bills and boosting real-world efficiency.

Energy Savings and Return on Investment

Consider this: underfloor heating can offer up to 35% greater efficiency than traditional radiators when fitted and operated optimally. That's not just marketing talk. It's a reflection of how evenly the system heats from the ground up, reducing heat loss and providing a cosier feel at lower thermostat settings.

So, how long before these systems pay for themselves? The answer depends on several factors: property size, energy tariffs, how much you currently spend on heating, and whether you're combining your underfloor setup with other efficiency upgrades. For those integrating a wet system with a modern heat pump, the payback period can average 10-16 years. Potentially quicker in regions with steeper energy prices, and even sooner if replacing an aging, inefficient boiler or electric radiators.

Electric systems typically have a lower upfront cost and are easier to install, but their higher running costs limit energy savings and are best for those small, high-use areas where comfort is king. Wet underfloor heating, while demanding more on initial installation, delivers better value over time. Especially for larger or entire ground-floor spaces.

Homeowners often share that the savings extend beyond bills. Many enjoy boosted property values, especially as energy-efficient homes rise in appeal. Factor in improved comfort and the benefits start to stack up, bit by bit.

Budgeting Tips & Choosing the Right System

A little planning goes a long way. Ready to keep your underfloor heating project on track and avoid surprises?

• Prioritise insulation. The better your home holds heat, the more you'll save. On both installation and running bills. Always factor high-quality insulation into your budget.
• Think long-term before you choose electric for a large space, since the running costs can escalate. For bigger areas, wet systems almost always bring better value.
• Check the suitability of your floors. Some types. Like solid concrete or timber suspended floors. Might need extra layers, which affect overall cost and installation time.
• Get several quotes. Even within one town, costs can vary. Comparing experienced installers (like those partnered with ThermRite) is a smart move.
• Factor controls and zoning. Smart thermostats let you fine-tune warmth in each room, slicing unnecessary energy use and maximising comfort.

It's also sensible to look at your own heating habits. Are you looking to bring comfort to a single chilly bathroom, or to overhaul heating for an entire open-plan space? Align your system choice. And budget. To get the best balance between upfront and long-term costs. To avoid common pitfalls, consider reviewing the top installation mistakes that UK homeowners frequently encounter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's cheaper to run: electric or wet underfloor heating?

Wet underfloor heating tends to have the lowest running costs, especially for larger areas or whole homes. Electric underfloor heating is convenient and less costly to install, but its day-to-day running expenses are higher, making it a better fit for smaller, occasional-use rooms.

Can I install underfloor heating in an old house?

Absolutely. While retrofitting is more complex and often more expensive than in a new-build, specialist low-profile systems can suit even period properties. Just prepare for extra planning, possible floor height adjustments, and the importance of upgrading insulation.

Does underfloor heating save money compared to radiators?

Over time, underfloor heating can provide notable energy savings, particularly when paired with good insulation and modern boilers or heat pumps. Many homeowners find their energy bills drop, but precise savings depend on property details, usage patterns, and energy prices.

How long does it take for underfloor heating to pay for itself?

A typical wet underfloor system in a well-insulated home paired with an efficient heat source can recover its installation cost within 10-16 years. Electric systems may take longer due to higher running costs, unless installed in small, high-use spaces.

Is underfloor heating safe to use with any flooring material?

Most modern systems can work under tile, stone, vinyl, engineered wood, or even carpet (with suitable underlay). Always check the compatibility and recommendations for your exact flooring choice before installation.

Should I choose electric or wet underfloor heating?

For compact rooms and when installation needs to be minimally disruptive, electric is ideal. For larger rooms, extensions or new builds where energy efficiency is a top priority, wet underfloor heating nearly always makes more long-term sense.

Bringing It All Together

Underfloor heating in 2025 brings both warmth and value, whether you're building a dream home from scratch or updating a Victorian semi. By taking a close look at the choices. Electric for convenience and ease, wet for satisfying efficiency. You put yourself in the best position to enjoy all the benefits without breaking the bank. Staying informed about current market trends can help you make more strategic decisions.

Ready to take the next step? Clarify your budget, prioritise professional advice, and don't hesitate to compare quotes from installers with a strong track record like ThermRite. For those still weighing their options, exploring whether underfloor heating is worth the investment can provide additional clarity. That way, you'll have comfort underfoot and peace of mind, for many cold seasons to come.