How Fast Does Underfloor Heating Warm Up? May 23, 2025 Underfloor heating is known for its comfort and efficiency, but if you’re considering it for your home, you might be wondering how quickly it gets warm. Unlike radiators, which heat up quickly but cool down fast, underfloor heating operates differently. In this blog, we explain how fast underfloor heating warms up, what affects its speed, and how you can get the best performance from your system. How Fast Does Underfloor Heating Warm Up? Average Warm-Up Time The typical warm-up time for underfloor heating is between 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the system type, floor finish, and insulation. Electric systems tend to heat up quicker than water-based (wet) systems, but both offer consistent, evenly distributed heat once up to temperature. Electric vs Wet Underfloor Heating Electric (Dry) Systems These use cables or mats laid directly under the floor surface and usually heat up within 30–60 minutes. Ideal for small areas or single rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. Wet (Hydronic) Systems These circulate warm water through pipes beneath the floor and typically take 1–2 hours to warm fully. Better suited for whole-home installations or larger open spaces. Factors That Affect Heat-Up Time 1. Floor Covering Different materials conduct heat differently. For example: Tile and stone transfer heat quickly Wood and laminate warm slower Thick carpets or underlays can delay heat-up times Choosing the right floor finish for your system can significantly improve responsiveness. 2. Insulation Levels Well-insulated floors retain heat better and reduce the time it takes for the system to warm the room. Insulation boards beneath the system can also help direct heat upward, improving efficiency and speed. 3. System Controls Smart thermostats and programmable timers can help your system maintain steady warmth without long warm-up delays. Using scheduled heating patterns ensures your floor is warm when you need it. 4. Room Size and Layout Smaller, enclosed spaces heat up faster than large open-plan rooms. Ceiling height and window placement can also impact overall system responsiveness. Installing Underfloor Heating in Southampton, Portsmouth or Hampshire? At Clean Heating Solutions, we install both electric and wet underfloor heating systems designed to suit your property, lifestyle and flooring type. Whether you're upgrading a bathroom or planning a full heating retrofit, we’ll ensure your system warms up quickly and runs efficiently all year round. Contact us today to book a consultation in Southampton, Portsmouth or across Hampshire.