Wet vs Electric Underfloor Heating in 2025: Which System Offers the Best Value in the UK?

Choosing the right underfloor heating system can transform your comfort. But it's also a decision that has a big impact on both energy bills and the experience of your home for years to come. If you've been weighing up whether to go with a wet (hydronic) or electric underfloor heating system for your next project, you're not alone. This guide cuts through the confusion, looking at costs, energy efficiency, installation, and fit for different British homes as things stand in 2025.

Let's get straight to what matters most when making this choice, with real-world insights, practical examples, and up-to-date facts about UK heating practices today.

Understanding Wet (Hydronic) vs Electric Underfloor Heating

Both wet and electric underfloor heating promise the luxury of warm floors and even heat distribution, but the way they work and the environments they suit are worlds apart. While wet systems circulate warm water through pipes beneath the floor and connect to your main boiler or heat pump, electric systems use heating mats or cables powered directly from your home's electrical supply.

But what does that actually mean for your wallet, your comfort, and your property? Let's break it down.

Pros and Cons of Wet Underfloor Heating

Wet underfloor heating remains the go-to option for larger spaces or those seeking whole-home heating solutions. Not only can this system pair seamlessly with renewable energy sources like heat pumps, but it also holds a reputation for excellent energy efficiency and long-term running cost savings.

Benefits of Wet Systems:
- Delivers consistent and gentle warmth throughout larger areas
- Can be up to 25% more efficient than traditional radiator systems, and up to 40% when working with a heat pump
- Lower running costs than electric. Especially significant in properties with high floor space or open-plan design
- Pairs well with new builds, extensions, and modern insulation standards

Drawbacks to Consider:
- Higher initial installation cost. Typical supply and install costs in new builds often hit £120-£135 per square metre, climbing to as much as £185 per square metre in some London renovations
- Installation is more invasive and time-consuming
- Best suited to projects where new floors are going down, such as new builds or major renovations

Pros and Cons of Electric Underfloor Heating

Electric underfloor heating offers a simple, speedy solution. Especially popular for upgrades, bathroom refits, or when minimal disruption is essential.

Benefits of Electric Systems:
- Quicker, less disruptive installation, which makes it the prime choice for retrofits and compact rooms
- Lower upfront cost. Expect supply and install prices around £73 per square metre for most UK retrofits
- Instantly compatible with odd-shaped spaces
- No risk of pipe leaks or water damage

Key Limitations:
- Higher long-term running costs, due to electricity rates averaging 25.73p per kWh compared to traditional gas or heat pump-fed wet systems
- Less suitable for heating whole homes or expansive open-plan spaces, as operating costs can mount rapidly
- May struggle to keep large areas warm in properties with less insulation or older floor structures

These strengths and limitations become much clearer when put to the test in real UK homes. Especially those shaped by the quirks of our varied climate.

When to Choose Wet or Electric Underfloor Heating: Real UK Scenarios

Making a smart decision isn't just about costs; it's about matching the system to your property and lifestyle. Across the UK, the best option often hinges on your project type, the floor area to be covered, and the way you use your space.

Wet Systems: New Builds, Large Floor Areas & Whole-Home Heating

If you're planning a new build or significant extension. Say, a four-bed detached home in Manchester or a spacious open-plan flat in London. A wet system often brings the best lifetime value. It shines where:
- The floor area reaches over 50m²
- Future energy bills matter as much as installation cost
- The heating will be used daily during the colder months
- There's scope to pair with modern heat pumps and strong insulation

Example: For a newly built home in Manchester covering 80m² with wet underfloor heating, total supply and fit costs might hit £10,000 to £11,000. On the running side, energy costs could land between £500 and £700 per year. Sometimes even less with a heat pump and solar integration.

Electric Systems: Quick Retrofits, Bathrooms & Small Zones

If you're renovating a flat in London or upgrading a family bathroom, electric underfloor heating stands out. It excels when:
- You want to limit floor height changes and installation disruption
- The area is under 20m²
- You need instant response and focused warmth

Example: For an 8m² bathroom in a Victorian terrace, supply and install could range from £600 to £700, letting you enjoy toasty tiles without extensive construction work. However, running costs for this space can reach £200-£300 a year. Still reasonable over small areas, but noticeably more for larger, regularly heated rooms.

It's worth thinking through your everyday routine. Are you heating a whole house steadily, or just boosting comfort in key rooms?

2025 Installation Costs & Long-Term Energy Efficiency: Example Costs from London and Manchester

Comparing detailed underfloor heating installation and running costs in black and white can reveal more than any sales pitch. Pricing may fluctuate between regions such as London and Manchester, but certain patterns remain true.

Installation Costs (2025 Typical Ranges)

• Wet Systems:
• New build, Greater Manchester: £120-£135 per m² (totalling about £10,000-£11,000 for 80m²)
• Renovation, Central London: £135-£185 per m² (pricing may be higher due to logistics and floor prep)
• Electric Systems:
• Retrofitted in London flat: £73-£90 per m² (so an average 8m² bathroom = £600-£700 all in)
• Larger areas will still see lower installation outlay but be mindful of future energy costs

Running Costs & Energy Efficiency in the 2025 UK Market

• Wet underfloor heating harnesses the efficiency of modern boilers or heat pumps. Systems paired with heat pumps may emit up to 40% less CO₂ and slash annual heating spend, particularly in homes with good insulation and smart controls. Gas-linked wet systems typically offer running costs of around £500-£700 per year for an 80m² area.

• Electric underfloor heating costs more to run, as UK average electricity rates remain high. Roughly three to four times the price of gas per kWh. This matters most in larger or frequently used spaces: a whole flat heated electrically could rack up £1,800-£2,400 in annual bills, while a modest bathroom sees smaller figures but still higher per-metre costs.

Energy Efficiency Advances and Practical Considerations

Modern controls, advanced insulation, and optimised layouts boost the efficiency of both types. Wet systems, however, steal the spotlight for their ability to maintain gentle warmth with lower input temperatures, aligning closely with emerging underfloor heating trends and national pushes for energy conservation and decarbonised heating.

How ThermRite Supports Both Systems with Value Trade Bundles

When it comes to sourcing either wet or electric underfloor heating, the expertise and support available from your chosen supplier can have a dramatic effect on both the installation process and the end result. ThermRite doesn't just provide the essentials for both systems; it offers comprehensive underfloor heating solutions designed to suit nearly every project, whether you're handling a compact bathroom upgrade or the full-scale fit-out of a modern home.

What stands out about ThermRite in 2025 is their blend of technical knowledge, reliable next-day delivery for project-critical components, and WRAS-approved products that tick all the right boxes for UK building compliance. These bundles are not a one-size-fits-all affair. Instead, they're tailored to the job, with design services, practical guidance and the sort of aftercare that helps keep complex projects on schedule.

Contractors and DIYers alike benefit from this approach, as it reduces the stress of having to piece together compatible parts and sort logistical hiccups. Their support extends from system consultation and component specification through to prompt delivery and project checklists, making the overall installation experience much smoother for both experienced trades and first-time buyers.

Compliance with 2025 UK Building Regulations and Recommendations for New Builds vs Retrofits

UK building regulations have evolved sharply in recent years, with 2025 requirements squarely aimed at reducing carbon emissions and driving greater energy efficiency in homes. These new standards. Like lower maximum flow temperatures (set at 55°C for wet systems), strict minimum insulation (U-value) targets, and the expectation of smart thermostatic controls. Shape which underfloor heating solution fits best.

For New Builds

Wet underfloor heating wins out in most new homes and extensions, as the structural freedom makes it easier to lay pipes at the optimal depth and add all necessary insulation from the ground up. Integrating a wet system aligns perfectly with modern low-carbon targets and delivers the lowest ongoing energy costs, particularly when working alongside heat pumps or solar panels.

For Retrofits

In contrast, electric systems can often be installed with less upheaval in existing properties, especially when floor build-up must remain minimal and disruption low. For smaller, well-insulated spaces or supplementary heating zones, specialized thermostat controls can help electric systems meet efficiency requirements when paired with high-grade insulation and digital controls. It's essential, though, to check that your project still achieves the required U-values and adheres to smart zoning protocols.

Across the board, ThermRite ensures their systems and guidance are current with 2025 rules, helping safeguard investments against shifting compliance standards.

Final Thoughts: Finding the Best Value for Your Space and Budget

There's no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to underfloor heating. Wet systems are a standout for whole-house comfort, ongoing savings, and compliance with stringent new build regulations. Electric alternatives earn their keep for fast upgrades, small spaces, and retrofits where bigger changes aren't feasible. Both offer a step up in comfort and aesthetics over radiators. But only when selected according to your specific priorities, building type, and budget.

Here's the heart of the matter: choosing the right system saves you money, maximises comfort, and cuts hassle down the line. If you want the peace of mind that comes from working with a trusted, experienced supplier, reach out to professional underfloor heating installation services and put expert support to work for your next project.

Warm floors, a comfortable home, and smart savings are all well within reach. Choose wisely and enjoy the results for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which underfloor heating type costs less to run in the UK?

Wet (hydronic) underfloor heating systems are generally more economical for ongoing use, particularly when connected to a modern boiler or, even better, a heat pump. Electric systems, while easier to install, result in higher bills because of the greater cost of electricity versus gas or renewable sources in the UK.

Can underfloor heating meet the 2025 building regulations for energy efficiency?

Yes, when correctly specified and installed, both wet and electric underfloor heating can meet stricter 2025 standards. Though wet systems, paired with top insulation and smart controls, make it far easier for new homes to nail low carbon targets.

Is it possible to retrofit wet underfloor heating in older homes?

It's feasible, but not always straightforward. Retrofitting wet systems often means lifting floors and increasing build-up height, which adds cost and disruption. For these reasons, many renovators prefer electric systems when working with older or period properties, especially where only small zones need heating.

Which system is quicker to install?

Electric underfloor heating wins on speed and ease of installation. Wet systems take longer as they involve extensive pipework and floor preparation, but usually offer better running costs in return.

Are both systems suitable for all floor types?

Almost all floor finishes, including tile, stone, engineered wood, and certain types of vinyl, can work well with underfloor heating systems, as long as you follow supplier recommendations for each material and consider heat output needs.