Amber predicts underfloor heating trends for 2024

From the anticipated impact of the Future Homes Standard to the rising demand for cost-effective heating solutions amid the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, there’s plenty on the table for the underfloor heating sector in 2024.

Here at Amber Underfloor Heating, we’re leading suppliers of underfloor heating systems to the retail sector, providing our products to the trade through our comprehensive networks of stockists. This gives us invaluable insight into developments in the industry.

So, as we progress into the new year, we’re taking a look at the upcoming trends shaping the underfloor heating landscape in 2024.

The effects of the Future Homes Standard

Last year, the ongoing effects of the updates to Part L Building Regulations were a key theme in the industry.

This year, we believe the ramifications of the Future Homes Standard will play a bigger role.

The Future Homes Standard and Future Building Standard will build on the changes to Part L, outlining that new-build homes should be delivered ‘zero-carbon ready’, use low-carbon heating systems and produce 75-80% fewer carbon emissions. These are due to be implemented in 2025.

However, in December 2023, the government issued the Future Homes and Buildings Standards consultation which seeks to gain opinion on changes to regulations, including overheating and higher energy-efficiency standards.

The consultation is running until 6^th March 2024, so we’re expecting the latter half of the year to be focused on adhering to new rules which are set to come into effect in 2025 – and how underfloor heating can help.

Sustainability and low-carbon heating

The aforementioned Future Homes Standard is just one measure among many which are being introduced to help the UK move towards its 2050 carbon neutrality (Net Zero) target.

The heating industry is making a conscious effort to reduce its carbon footprint and increase use of renewable energy sources. So, with this ever-growing emphasis on environmental sustainability, the spotlight on energy-efficient technologies has intensified and we’re expecting underfloor heating to stand out as a frontrunner this year.

It has previously been outlined that electrical heating solutions are key to a sustainable future. As such, we’re expecting an increased demand for electric underfloor heating amongst homeowners, property developers and tradespeople alike.

However, wet underfloor heating is known for its energy efficiency too, particularly when paired with heat pumps. So, we’re predicting as the heating industry to opt for sustainable, low-carbon wet underfloor heating and heat pump systems too.

Not only will this help the environment, but it will resonate with tradespeople as they increasingly focus on ‘going green’.

Growth of heat pump installations

Our 2023 predictions included growth of underfloor heating installed with heat pumps. This certainly came true – and it’s a trend we’re expecting to continue!

Air-source and ground-source heat pumps are set to become even more in-demand in 2024 – namely due to the ongoing push towards more sustainable heating solutions.

Heat pumps move thermal energy from an external source into a building. This warmth is then transferred to the systems within a building to provide heating and hot water.

They require a small amount of energy to run, but are considered to be very energy efficient as they deliver around three to four times more heat energy than the energy they use.

And, heat pumps paired with underfloor heating have potential to reduce a building’s carbon footprint as they are both less carbon-intensive than traditional heating methods and run at lower temperature too.

Plus, it was recently revealed that the UK government is considering loosening planning rules on heat pump installation for listed buildings, so those living in listed properties or conservation areas could be exempt from having to apply for permission to fit the green technology.

If notions like these – which seek to make heat pump adoption simpler – continue, we predict a significant rise in heat pump installations this year.

Cost-effective heating

The cost-of-living crisis is set to continue into 2024, particularly as the energy price cap rose by 5% on the previous quarter for 1^st January to 31^st March 2024.

As a result, many people are looking for ways to make their heating more cost effective to save on energy bills.

Underfloor heating runs at a lower temperature than traditional heating methods such as radiators. A conventional boiler and radiator system runs at around 70°C, while underfloor heating runs at a much lower temperature of approximately 35°C. It therefore takes less time to heat up, using much less energy as a result.

Plus, it makes better use of the energy it does require. While radiators only heat the air closest to them, underfloor heating radiates a consistent even warmth across a whole floor, meaning all the energy produced – and paid for – is used effectively and efficiently.

In the pursuit of cost-effective heating, underfloor heating stands out as an economical choice, offering a more efficient use of energy and a more cost-effective warmth.

How can Amber Underfloor Heating help in 2024?

Here at Amber Underfloor Heating, we supply efficient and effective electric and wet underfloor heating to the retail sector across the UK.

Backed by over 30 years’ experience, we’re trusted by our comprehensive network of stockists which includes wholesalers, distributers and kitchen, bathroom and tile showrooms.

As well as our unique range of Amber branded products, we are the UK and Ireland’s leading supplier of DEVI products.

To find out more about our extensive underfloor heating range – or for more information about becoming an Amber stockist – get in touch today.