Underfloor Heating: Electric vs Hydronic Cost Comparison Posted on January 26, 2026 Today, warm floors in the dead of winter are no longer a luxury for the rich. The cost of underfloor heating has gone down so that it can be a practical option for bathrooms, kitchens, basements and even whole-house systems! In this guide, we discuss how electric underfloor heating works, how it compares with hydronic systems, and explore the costs of both setups so you can compare quotes confidently. Quick Summary Electric underfloor heating (dry systems using mats, cables or thin film) is usually the cheapest to install for single rooms and retrofits and gives fast, on-demand warmth. Hydronic underfloor heating (warm water through pipes) costs more upfront but is cheaper to run long-term when paired with an efficient boiler or heat pump. 2025 costs: in the US expect roughly $10–$25 per sq ft installed for electric systems , while hydronic systems commonly range $7–$20+/ft² depending on scope. How Electric Underfloor Heating Works Electric underfloor heating, also called electric radiant floor heating, uses electric heating components that are laid beneath the floor covering. These components can be heating cables, preformed mats, or thin-film elements. They are designed to emit radiant heat upward through the floor finish (be it tile, stone, vinyl, or engineered wood). Electric underfloor heating is controlled by thermostats and can be zoned (meaning one thermostat per room). Because the systems are thin and use electricity, they are a popular choice for retrofits and rooms where installing pipes or a boiler connection would be disruptive. Types of Electric Underfloor Heating Loose cable systems — made of custom-laid loops for irregular rooms. Prefabricated mats — these are mesh mats with fixed spacing for straightforward installation beneath tile or stone. Thin-film/foil systems — these are low-profile sheets that are used for vinyl or laminate floors. Each type has different installation methods and price points: mats are fastest to fit, while loose cable is most flexible for oddly shaped rooms or spaces. Featured radiant floor heating mat: Nuheat Electric Floor Heating Mat The Nuheat Floor System can be installed for use under tile, stone, marble, laminate or engineered wood floors. These ⅛” thick mats are energy efficient, delivering up to 12 watts/sq. ft. or 41 BTUs/ sq. ft. Each floor heating mat is also almost all DIY; an electrician is only needed to install a dedicated line, unless the room already has a dedicated line. Simply lay your thinset, roll out and press the Nuheat mat right onto the thinset, apply another layer of thinset and install your flooring. Price: $377.00 Nuheat Electric Floor Heating Mat - 10 Ft. Series / 240 Volt Price will change based floor mat width chosen The Nuheat Floor Heating Mats are easy to install and are available in just about any size you may need. Radi... View Product Electric vs Hydronic Underfloor Heat Upfront cost Electric heating is typically less expensive for single rooms. Hydronic systems cost more to install due to the pipes, manifolds, pump, integration with boiler/heat pump that make up the system. Running costs Hydronic systems are generally cheaper to operate in the long run — especially when used with a heat pump. Conversely, electric heating tends to be more expensive monthly, particularly if used to heat large areas continuously. Response time Electric heats faster (due to low thermal mass), while hydronic is slower but offers steady room temperatures. Best use case Electric: Ideal for single rooms like bathrooms and kitchens Use for spot heating Good option for retrofits Hydronic: More practical for whole-house heating or large open-plan floors Maintenance Electric systems from reputable brands are generally low-maintenance. Hydronic systems require occasional pump/manifold checks and periodic servicing due to their more complex nature. Underfloor Heating Costs Electric underfloor heating: Material cost and installation ranges from $10–$25 per sq ft Hydronic systems: $7–$20+ per sq ft for installed systems Whole-house projects push the higher end because of extra plumbing, manifolds and source integration. Note that prices vary with location, floor prep, floor finish, zoning, and installer rates. Retrofits in particular often require raising floor levels (to house the insulation + mats/screed), or embedding into thin screed systems, which push up labor costs. New builds on the other hand reduce prep cost. Always get multiple local quotes to get the best possible pricing. Floor Compatibility Best Ceramic, porcelain tile, and natural stone provide highest thermal conductivity, resulting in the fastest transfer of heat to the room. Okay with care Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and engineered wood may be suitable, depending on the manufacturer’s temperature limits. Challenging Thick carpets or certain hardwoods may require lower W/ft² settings or be unsuitable. Always confirm compatibility with the floor and heater manufacturers. Underfloor Heating FAQ Can I use electric UFH as my main heating? Technically yes, for small homes or very well-insulated buildings in temperate areas. However, for whole-house heating in cold climates, electric systems are usually more expensive to run than hydronic systems powered by heat pumps or gas boilers. For whole-house settings, hydronic paired with a heat pump is often the most economical long-term choice. Will underfloor heating damage my floors? No, if installed correctly and the floor covering is compatible. Tile and stone floors have the fewest restrictions. For engineered wood and vinyl flooring, refer to the manufacturer’s temperature limits. What other factors should I take into consideration when choosing? Floor preparation needed (which can include removal, leveling, and insulation). The terms of warranty for the heating elements and labor Ask the contractor for an estimate of the running cost using your local electricity or gas prices. Bottomline Electric underfloor heating is cheaper and easier to install and maintain, but is limited to spot heating or single rooms. Hydronic heating costs more upfront, but is more cost-efficient in the long term. It’s also the better choice for heating larger areas. Ready to heat your floors? Check out our electric underfloor heating systems and make those ice-cold floors a thing of the past! Also check out our related articles: Is Underfloor Heating Safe & Efficient? Heated Floor Costs & Considerations Before Purchasing Mickey Luongo Mickey is the resident heating and air conditioning expert with over 15 years of experience in the industry.
