The Short Answer
If you’re just looking for the short answer to this question, then it’s ‘yes’. Underfloor heating systems can still work well even if carpet is installed on top, and there are even some additional benefits. Since radiators cause warm air to circulate, dust trapped in the carpet can circulate with it, which can be harmful to those with asthma or other allergies. However, with underfloor heating, the dust that naturally gets absorbed by the carpet is not made to circulate through the air, making your room feel cleaner and fresher.
Carpet & Underfloor Heating: Things to Consider
Unfortunately, the answer is not quite as simple as that! There are some additional things to consider when installing carpet over underfloor heating systems.
People often wonder whether they will get all the benefits of a UFH system if they also have carpet installed. Since carpet is naturally insulating, it might be the case that an underfloor heating system is less efficient when there is a layer of insulation to penetrate. It’s true that this could happen with particularly thick carpets, however there are simple ways to avoid reducing the efficiency of UFH systems.
Before installing your UFH, be sure to check that your carpet and any underlay does not have a combined Tog value of more than 2.5. Tog rating is a measure of thermal resistance, and you may be familiar with the term as it often relates to duvets. You should also consider the type of carpet as well as its Tog rating. Usually, carpets with hessian backing are recommended rather than those with a rubber backing. While these can be more costly upfront, they will likely save you money in the long run as they will help to maintain the efficiency of your underfloor heating.
Often, you will be able to consult with carpeting specialists when it comes to deciding which carpet will be best suited to rooms that will have UFH.
Another thing to consider when installing underfloor heating is making sure your contractor has all the necessary information about the size of each room, whether or not each room is already carpeted, and details about your current heating system (unless you are installing UFH in a newbuild). This is so that they can ensure your UFH system is performing at maximum efficiency.
When getting underfloor heating fitted, it’s important to be wary of cowboy companies who will not have concern about the efficiency (or potential lack thereof) of your UFH system. Some companies have been known to hide disclaimers in the small print, making you liable for any inconsistencies, breakages or inefficiencies.
