Underfloor Heating Running Costs 2026

Underfloor Heating Running Costs Based on the January–March 2026 Energy Price Cap: Understanding the running costs of underfloor heating in the UK is essential for homeowners with or considering it.

Based on the latest January–March 2026 energy price cap, electricity costs 27.69p per kWh with a 54.75p daily standing charge, while gas costs 5.93p per kWh with a 35.09p standing charge.

Here’s a comparison of electric and gas underfloor heating systems for identical rooms, using current energy rates.

This table highlights the cost differences between electric and gas underfloor heating:

System Type	Area Size	Daily Usage (Hours)	Daily Cost	Annual Cost
Electric	Small (3 sqm)	2	£0.25	£90.96
Electric	Large (15 sqm)	6	£3.74	£1,364.10
Gas	Small (3 sqm)	2	£0.04	£12.99
Gas	Large (15 sqm)	6	£0.53	£194.91

Introduction

Now that you have a snapshot of the potential running costs associated with electric and gas underfloor heating systems, you might be wondering what drives these figures and how you can optimise the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of your home heating.

Underfloor heating offers the luxury of warm floors and provides an efficient way to heat your home without the obtrusiveness of radiators.

This article will investigate how these systems work, their advantages, and the factors which influence their operating costs. Whether you’re building a new home, renovating an existing one, or simply exploring heating options, understanding the nuances of underfloor heating will help you make an informed decision tailored to your needs and budget.

Understanding Underfloor Heating

Underfloor heating is an alternative to residential heating. There are two main types: electric (dry) systems and water-based (wet) systems.

Electric systems use heating wires or mats installed beneath the floor surface, which heat up when electricity is switched on. These systems are typically easier to install, making them ideal for retrofitting existing properties, but depending on electricity costs, they can be more expensive to operate.

Wet systems circulate warm water through pipes under the floor, typically powered by either a Boiler or a heat pump. This type can be more cost-effective, especially in homes connected to natural gas or integrated with renewable energy sources like solar thermal panels.

Both systems have their advantages. Electric underfloor heating provides quick temperature adjustments and requires less installation height, making it suitable for upper floors in multi-storey buildings.

While requiring a more invasive installation process, wet systems offer lower running costs and are considered more efficient for larger areas or whole-house heating.

Each system distributes heat more evenly than traditional radiators, reducing hotspots and enhancing overall comfort.

Current Energy Costs in the UK (2026)

In 2026, energy costs remain a key consideration for UK homeowners considering underfloor heating. The latest average UK rates for electricity and gas—crucial for calculating running costs—have been updated as part of the January–March 2026 energy price cap:

Electricity: The unit rate is now 27.69 pence per kWh, with a daily standing charge of 54.75 pence. Electricity remains the most expensive energy source per unit, which can significantly affect the running costs of electric underfloor heating systems.
Gas: The unit rate for gas is now 5.93 pence per kWh, with a daily standing charge of 35.09 pence. This makes gas-powered (wet) underfloor heating systems more cost-effective to run for larger areas or frequent use.

These updated figures emphasise the difference in running costs between electric and gas underfloor heating. Homeowners should carefully weigh these energy rates, as they have a direct impact on the long-term affordability and efficiency of their heating system choice.

Cost Analysis of Electric Underfloor Heating

Electric underfloor heating is renowned for its ease of installation and immediate heat output, making it a popular choice for many homeowners. However, understanding the cost implications is essential, especially given the current electricity rates in the UK.

Running Costs Calculation

Example 1: Small Bathroom (3 sqm)

Energy consumption: Assuming a typical power output of 150 watts per square metre, a 3 sqm bathroom would require 450 watts (0.45 kW).
Hourly running cost: 0.45 kW × 27.69p = 12.46p per hour.
Daily cost (assuming 2 hours of operation per day): 12.46p × 2 = 24.92p per day.
Annual cost: 24.92p × 365 = £90.96.

Example 2: Large Living Room (15 sqm)

Energy consumption: A 15 sqm area would require 2.25 kW with the same power output.
Hourly running cost: 2.25 kW × 27.69p = 62.30p per hour.
Daily cost (assuming 6 hours of operation per day): 62.30p × 6 = £3.74 per day.
Annual cost: £3.74 × 365 = £1,364.10.

These examples illustrate that while electric underfloor heating provides a high level of comfort and convenience, the running costs can be substantial, especially in larger areas or homes with higher electricity prices. Homeowners must balance these costs with the benefits of a quick and responsive heating system. Energy efficiency measures, such as good insulation and smart thermostats, can help mitigate these expenses by reducing the need for prolonged heating.

Cost Analysis of Gas Underfloor Heating

Gas underfloor heating systems, which use water circulated through pipes heated by a boiler, are known for cost-effectiveness, particularly in larger installations. However, we’ll focus on area sizes similar to those in the electric underfloor heating analysis for consistency.

Running Costs Calculation

Example 1: Small Bathroom (3 sqm)

Energy consumption: Assuming the system requires about 100 watts per square metre, a 3 sqm bathroom would need 0.3 kW.
Hourly running cost: 0.3 kW × 5.93p = 1.78p per hour.
Daily cost (assuming 2 hours of operation per day): 1.78p × 2 = 3.56p per day.
Annual cost: 3.56p × 365 = £12.99.

Example 2: Large Living Room (15 sqm)

Energy consumption: For a 15 sq m area, the required power is 1.5 kW.
Hourly running cost: 1.5 kW × 5.93p = 8.90p per hour.
Daily cost (assuming 6 hours of operation per day): 8.90p × 6 = 53.40p per day.
Annual cost: 53.40p × 365 = £194.91.

These examples demonstrate the affordability of gas underfloor heating compared to electric options, especially for larger areas. The running costs are significantly lower due to the lower per-kWh gas rate.

However, installing gas underfloor heating is usually more complex and costly, requiring a boiler and extensive pipework. Homeowners should consider these initial investment costs against the long-term savings in running expenses.

Get Your Free Underfloor Heating Installation Survey & Quote

TM Hughes & Son Gas Services Ltd specialises in installing underfloor heating systems. Our expertise ensures that your heating system perfectly suits your home’s needs, optimising comfort and energy efficiency.

TM Hughes & Son Gas Services Ltd offers Essex residents interested in underfloor heating a free, no-obligation survey quote. This allows you to understand the potential costs and benefits without upfront commitment.

If you live in the Essex area, contact us today to book your free, no-obligation survey and quote with one of our experienced underfloor heating engineers.

If you live in the Essex area, contact us today to book your free, no-obligation survey and quote with one of our experienced underfloor heating engineers.