Electric underfloor heating under the carpet

Electric underfloor heating is gaining popularity as one of the most effective and convenient heating solutions. More and more people are choosing to install it not only in bathrooms and kitchens, but also under carpets in living rooms and bedrooms. In this article, we will look at the advantages, the installation process and the important aspects of electric floor heating under carpet and electric floor heating under carpet.

Advantages of electric floor heating under carpet

• Thermal comfort: electric underfloor heating provides even heat distribution over the entire floor surface. As a result, even on cold days, you can enjoy a pleasantly warm carpet underfoot.
• Energy Efficient: Modern electric underfloor heating systems are designed to use a minimum amount of energy. Thermostats and programmers allow precise temperature control, which contributes to lower heating costs.
• Aesthetics: Installing electric underfloor heating eliminates the need for visible radiators or other heating devices, which helps maintain the aesthetics of the interior.

Is it possible to do electric heating under carpets?

It is an undeniable fact that carpets are excellent thermal insulators. For this reason, the cooperation of heating mats and carpets seems very difficult. However, many manufacturers offer carpets suitable for underfloor heating, which they mark with the appropriate symbol. The thermal resistance of such a carpet does not exceed 0.17 m²K/W. How can this be achieved?

First of all, by using the right raw materials for the carpet. If you want to have a heating system in the floor, a carpet made of synthetic fibers like polyamide or polypropylene and natural wool will be ideal for you. These materials have the right thermal properties that allow efficient heat conduction, while not compromising on quality and aesthetics.

Electric heating under carpet and safety.

It is not only the material that matters for the proper operation of electric underfloor heating. Equally important is the method of installation. When gluing the carpet, care must be taken to ensure that the adhesive is resistant to high temperatures, reaching up to 50 degrees. Low-quality adhesives can degrade or lose their properties when exposed to heat, which can lead to damage to the carpet.

Carpets attached without glue can also interact with the heating system in the floor. In this case, it is necessary to ensure that the carpet is well adhered to the floor and does not move. You can use special non-slip mats, which further improve the safety of use.

Self-regulating system - the optimal solution under the carpet

The biggest danger with underfloor heating is local heating of the floor under the carpet. This can lead to damage to the floor and overheating of the wires themselves. The answer may be the RAYCHEM T2Red cable . It belongs to the self-regulating systems. The heating cable is built in such a way that its electrical resistance is dependent on the ambient temperature. This means that when the floor is hot, the wire will not generate heat. This action is local, so it only affects a small area where the temperature is high enough.

In practice, the T2Red cable will generate less heat under the carpet and this will not affect the heating of other parts of the room. This translates into the safety of the entire heating system and its efficiency, which also translates into energy efficiency. This makes the self-regulating system ideal for use under carpets, ensuring optimal temperature and minimizing the risk of overheating.

Read more about Electric energy-efficient floor heating.

Can a floor heating mat be under a carpet?

Floor heating mats can also be used under the carpet, such as under tiles. In this case, a self-leveling screed 15 mm thick is used, in which we sink the laid mats. Thus, the installation proceeds in a similar way to other types of flooring. However, the difference will be in the power that such an installation can have. To avoid overheating, it is best to choose mats with up to 90-100 W/m². Also, be sure to set the maximum floor temperature at 27-28°C to prevent overheating.

Tips and notes

• Choosing the right carpet: not all carpets are suitable for use with underfloor heating. Choose carpets labeled as compatible with this type of system, which allow for effective heat transfer.
• Safety: Electric underfloor heating is safe to use, provided the installation has been carried out in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. However, it is worth checking the system regularly for any faults.

Summary

Electric underfloor heating under carpet and electric underfloor heating under carpet are excellent solutions for those seeking comfort and efficiency in their homes. Thanks to the ease of installation, energy efficiency and aesthetic appearance, this system is becoming increasingly popular. Thoughtful installation and regular maintenance will allow you to enjoy warmth and comfort for many years.