Insights from Energy House 2.0
In January 2023, Salford University opened its innovative Energy Lab 2.0 facility, consisting of two environmental chambers, each capable of accommodating two full sized detached houses. These demo homes can be used to simulate temperatures from -20ºC to +40ºC, from a range of sources such as wind, rain, snow, and solar radiation.
In October 2024, a report was published to show the performance of Future Homes, to the specification provided in partnership by Bellway Homes, Barratt Developments, and Saint Gobain. A variety of heat sources and emitters were tested at the energy Lab 2.0 at typical 5ºC and extreme -5ºC conditions.
At Wavin, we are dedicated to advancing sustainable, energy-efficient heating solutions and found this study particularly pertinent.
The findings reinforce the benefits of underfloor heating (UFH) as a modern, cost-effective, and energy-efficient alternative to traditional radiators.
The Case for Underfloor Heating
Underfloor heating offers several significant advantages, particularly in energy efficiency, system performance, and cost savings. Key metrics from the study show:
• Superior Energy Efficiency: The System Energy Efficiency Indicator (SEEI) was 25% higher at 5ºC and 40% higher at -5ºC when UFH was installed on the ground floor compared to radiators, both using a monobloc ASHP at a constant heating pattern.
• Reduced Running Costs: UFH reduced running costs by 25% at 5ºC and 32% at -5ºC compared to radiators under the same conditions. For example, the daily heating cost with UFH was just £2.31 at 5ºC and £6.34 at -5ºC.
• Higher Coefficient of Performance (CoP): The monobloc ASHP achieved a CoP of 3.7 with UFH compared to 2.5 with radiators, representing a significant 1.2-point increase in efficiency at 5ºC.
Why Underfloor Heating Excels
1. Homogeneous Heat Distribution: Unlike radiators, UFH ensures even heat dispersion across the floor, reducing cold spots and enhancing comfort.
2. Lower Hysteresis: UFH maintains a consistent temperature with minimal fluctuations, ensuring steady and efficient heating.
3. Cost-Effective and Low-Impact Installation: With straightforward installation requirements and minimal commissioning, UFH is a hassle-free solution for both new builds and retrofits.
4. Future-Ready Performance: High CoP values, especially under variable weather conditions, confirm UFH’s compatibility with sustainable heating technologies like ASHPs, making it an ideal choice for the Future Homes Standard.
A Greener, Smarter Heating Solution
The findings from Energy House 2.0 underscore that underfloor heating is the most efficient heating solution for ground floors, particularly at external temperatures of +5ºC and -5ºC. Its energy-saving potential, high system efficiency, and cost advantages make it a sustainable and practical choice for homeowners and developers alike.
At Wavin, we are proud to support innovative heating solutions that deliver comfort, efficiency, and environmental benefits. Whether you’re building a new home or upgrading an existing property, underfloor heating is a smart investment in a sustainable future.
Explore Wavin’s range of underfloor heating solutions and learn how we can help you design for efficiency and comfort.
Find out more about Wavin Indoor Climate Solutions here or request a technical consultation below.
