Buying infrared underfloor heating: the complete guide to a warm home in 2026

Buying infrared underfloor heating: the complete guide to a warm home in 2026

, by Warmteshop, 16 min read

What if you could take those bulky radiators off the wall for good without ever having cold feet again? We all recognize it: winter is just around the corner, the gas bill is skyrocketing, and that unsightly heater…

What if you could take those bulky radiators off the wall for good without ever having cold feet again? We all recognize it: winter is just around the corner, the gas bill is skyrocketing, and those unsightly heating elements are positioned exactly where you wanted to put that new cabinet. You are probably looking for a way to heat your home sustainably without compromising on design or comfort. Infrared underfloor heating offers the ideal solution for the modern home.

In this guide, you will discover how to choose the right infrared underfloor heating for your specific floor type, from laminate to tiles, and how to immediately save on your energy bill. We show you how this invisible heat, which feels just as pleasant as the sun's natural radiation, enhances your living comfort. You will read all about the surprisingly simple installation, the smart control via an app, and why this system is the most logical step within the energy transition of 2026.

Key Points

  • Discover why direct radiant heat is the only real solution for cold feet and a healthier indoor climate.
  • Learn how the science behind infrared underfloor heating works and why this technology is comparable to the natural warmth of the sun.
  • Understand how to optimize your heating efficiency by matching it correctly with the thermal resistance of your floor covering.
  • Gain insight into calculating the required power per room, so you make the right choice between primary or supplementary heating.
  • See how, with Termofol complete kits, you choose easy installation and top European quality with an extensive warranty.

Why choose infrared underfloor heating for your home?

Infrared underfloor heating is more than a modern luxury; it is a strategic choice for those who want to combine comfort with a future-proof interior. Unlike traditional radiators, which heat and circulate the air, this system works via direct radiation. This principle is based on the operation of infrared heating, where energy is not lost to the air but is directly absorbed by objects, walls, and people in the room. These objects retain the heat and gradually radiate it back out, ensuring an extremely stable and pleasant indoor climate.

The most tangible benefit is undoubtedly the end of cold feet. Because the heat source is located directly beneath the floor surface, the floor itself becomes a large heating element. The heat rises naturally, just as the sun warms the earth. This ensures optimal temperature distribution: warm at your feet and slightly cooler at eye level. Additionally, the system offers unprecedented aesthetic freedom. Without unsightly radiators on the wall, you can utilize every square meter of your home for that new cabinet or minimalist design piece.

Infrared also performs excellently in terms of health. Because there is no active air circulation, as with convection heating, significantly less dust and pollen swirl through the room. This is a huge relief for people with allergies or asthma. Moreover, humidity remains at a healthy and constant level, which prevents dry eyes and chapped skin.

the difference between electric underfloor heating and traditional systems

Many people compare direct infrared with water-based systems, but there are significant differences. Traditional underfloor heating with pipes is often slow; it takes hours for the mass of the floor to heat up. Warmteshop's infrared underfloor heating, on the other hand, reacts lightning-fast. Within minutes, you can already feel the direct radiation penetrating the floor covering. Moreover, installation costs are a fraction of the price of water-based systems, simply because no heavy hacking or breaking work on the boiler or pipes is required. You lay the thin foils directly on the insulation, making it ideal for renovation projects.

sustainability and the transition to gas-free living

How exactly does infrared underfloor heating work?

The operation of infrared underfloor heating is fundamentally different from what we are used to with classic central heating. Whereas traditional radiators heat the air in a room, leading to a constant airflow and temperature fluctuations, infrared works with direct radiation. You can best compare this to the natural warmth of the sun on a clear winter day. Even when the outside air feels cold, the sun's radiation provides direct, deep warmth to your skin as soon as you step out of the shade. Exactly the same thing happens in your home.

The science behind this method is as simple as it is effective. The radiant waves do not heat the air, but the objects and people in the room. Walls, furniture, and the floor itself absorb this energy, retain the heat, and then radiate it back into the surroundings. Scientific research into efficient residential heating confirms that this method ensures a much more even heat distribution. No cold zones develop in the corners of the room because the fine-mesh technology in the foils distributes the heat across the entire surface. A major advantage is the speed: within a few minutes of switching on the system, you can already feel the first warmth penetrating the floor.

technology behind heating foil and mats

The core of this system consists of high-quality carbon heating foil. This foil is made up of wafer-thin layers of carbon that are tensioned to generate the desired radiant heat. The major advantage of this material is its durability and minimal thickness. In renovation projects, the installation height is often a stumbling block, but with infrared foil, that problem is a thing of the past. The system is placed on an insulation layer, after which the floor finish can be applied directly over it. Consequently, you lose hardly any height, making it an ideal solution for existing homes.

safety and reliability of the system

Safety comes first when choosing a heating system. The Termofol systems we offer at Warmteshop are completely maintenance-free and contain no moving parts that can wear out or leak. The intelligent thermostats play a crucial role in this. They constantly monitor the temperature and ensure that the maximum floor temperature is never exceeded. This makes infrared underfloor heating completely safe for families with small children and pets, who often play or rest directly on the floor. Curious about the possibilities for your specific situation? Then take a look at our complete underfloor heating kits for a worry-free start.

the best infrared underfloor heating for every floor type

Choosing the right infrared underfloor heating is not a matter of 'one size fits all'. Your floor covering determines how efficiently the radiant heat reaches your living space. A crucial factor here is thermal resistance, also known as the R-value. For optimal efficiency, the total R-value of your floor combination must not exceed 0.15 m²K/W. The lower this number, the faster you will feel that lovely warmth of the sun on your feet. Do you want extra atmosphere in your living room in addition to warm feet? You can perfectly combine the system with an electric fireplace for a complete sensory experience of warmth and coziness.

In the overview below, you can see which system best suits your living situation:

floor type recommended system installation method
laminate & parquet heating foil (Termofol) dry construction on insulation
tiles & natural stone heating mats (TF-HM-150) in tile adhesive or leveling compound
PVC & vinyl heating foil (low wattages) under pressure-resistant insulation
carpet heating foil between insulation and subfloor

heating foil for laminate, parquet, and wooden floors

For floating floors such as laminate or parquet, wafer-thin heating foil, such as the Termofol 305ET or 310T, is the absolute champion. This foil is only a few millimeters thick and is placed directly under the floorboards. The major advantage is the even heat distribution across the entire surface. As a result, the wood does not experience sudden temperature shocks, which prevents shrinking or expanding. For wooden floors, always ensure a suitable underlay that reflects heat upwards while simultaneously providing the necessary sound insulation.

heating mats for tiles and natural stone

Tiles and natural stone are natural allies of infrared radiation. They conduct heat excellently and retain it for a long time. For these floors, we recommend the powerful TF-HM-150 mats. These mats are easy to incorporate into a layer of leveling compound or directly into the tile adhesive. This makes them particularly popular for bathroom renovations. For the ultimate wellness experience in your bathroom, we recommend combining the underfloor heating with a towel radiator, so that your towels are always pleasantly warm as well.

solutions for PVC, vinyl and carpet

With materials such as PVC and vinyl, you must be extra vigilant regarding heat sensitivity. PVC has a very low thermal resistance, causing heat to be transferred extremely quickly. This is efficient, but it does require precise power adjustment to prevent overheating. For soft floor coverings such as vinyl and carpet, a pressure-resistant insulation board is essential. This board protects the heating foil against point loads from furniture or heels, ensuring your system continues to function safely and reliably for years.

Infrared underfloor heating

What should you look out for when buying infrared underfloor heating?

When purchasing infrared underfloor heating, it is essential to first determine your ultimate goal. Do you want the system to take over the complete heating of the room, or are you looking for the extra luxury of a warm floor in the morning? This choice determines the required power output and how the installation is configured. As primary heating, the system must have sufficient capacity to reach the desired temperature even on the coldest winter days. With supplementary heating, the focus is more on local comfort around, for example, the seating area or the dining table.

A crucial component that is often overlooked is the insulation beneath the heating foil. Without the right insulation boards, you lose a significant portion of the radiant heat to the underlying concrete floor or crawl space. We always recommend the use of specific, pressure-resistant insulation boards that reflect infrared radiation upwards. This not only increases comfort but also prevents unnecessary energy waste. Quality is recognizable by European certifications and extensive warranties, such as those we offer with Termofol systems. This gives you the assurance of a safe and maintenance-free system that will last for decades.

determining the correct power and wattage

Determining the wattage per square meter is closely related to the insulation level of your home. In modern, well-insulated houses, 80W to 100W per m² is often sufficient for primary heating. In older homes or rooms with a lot of glass, such as a conservatory, 130W or even 200W may be necessary. A common misconception is that higher wattage automatically leads to a higher energy bill. In reality, higher power ensures that the floor reaches the desired temperature faster. As a result, the thermostat switches off the system sooner, meaning total consumption often remains the same while your comfort increases due to the fast response time.

smart control with thermostats

A high-quality system is only truly complete with the right control. By using a smart thermostat, you can save up to 20% on your energy consumption. These devices learn how quickly your home heats up and adjust their schedule accordingly. With modern Wi-Fi modules, you control the temperature in each room individually via your smartphone. This form of zone heating is the key to a low energy bill. You only heat the rooms where you are actually present, exactly when it is needed. Do you want to know which system best suits your floor type? Then take a look at our extensive range of infrared underfloor heating for a tailored solution.

configure your ideal system at Warmteshop

Putting together your ideal heating system doesn't have to be a complicated puzzle. At Warmteshop, we understand that every home and every floor is unique. That is why we offer complete underfloor heating kits specifically designed for the do-it-yourselfer. These packages contain everything you need: the heating foil, the right insulation, mounting materials, and a smart thermostat. We use exclusively Termofol technology. This brand is synonymous with top European quality and offers extensive warranties that give you the necessary peace of mind. This ensures you have a system that continues to perform optimally, not only today but also far into the future.

What truly sets us apart in the market is the combination of digital expertise and physical presence. While many webshops stop at selling a standard box, we go a step further with personalized customization. Our experts are happy to perform a detailed heat calculation for your specific situation. This prevents you from installing too little capacity for a cold corner or, conversely, consuming unnecessarily high amounts. Would you prefer to experience that unique warmth for yourself first? With more than 30 showrooms in the Benelux, there is always a location nearby where you can feel the pleasant radiation, comparable to the sun, for yourself.

from advice to professional installation

Our service extends from the initial consultation to final delivery. Our advisors help you select the right foil or mat for your floor type, whether it is parquet, tiles, or PVC. Don't have the time or inclination to roll up your sleeves yourself? No problem. You can fully outsource the installation of the infrared underfloor heating to our certified technicians. They ensure professional installation and a safe electrical connection. We remain your guide even after the purchase; our customer service team is always ready to assist you with setting up your Wi-Fi modules or answering other technical questions.

Ready for warm feet?

Choosing infrared is a sensible and ambitious step towards a gas-free future. It is the smart, healthy, and sustainable choice that directly contributes to your living comfort. You enjoy a sleek interior without radiators and experience the luxury of even heat that truly warms people and space. Are you ready to say goodbye to cold feet and a high gas bill? View all infrared underfloor heating in our shop and discover the possibilities for your home.

Switch to the heating of the future today

The transition to a gas-free and sustainable home starts with the right choices at the foundation. As you have read, infrared underfloor heating not only an aesthetic upgrade for your interior, but also a smart investment in your health and your wallet. Thanks to the direct radiant heat, you enjoy a level of comfort comparable to the sun, while your radiators become a thing of the past for good.

Whether you choose wafer-thin foil under laminate or robust mats under your bathroom tiles, the right match ensures optimal efficiency. At Warmteshop, we specialize in Termofol technology, and our experts in over 30 showrooms are ready to provide you with expert, tailored advice. Together, we will find the most energy-efficient solution for your specific floor type and living situation.

Are you ready to take the step towards invisible, healthy warmth? Discover our collection of infrared underfloor heating and order directly. Your feet will thank you.

frequently asked questions about infrared underfloor heating

Is infrared underfloor heating expensive to use?

Infrared underfloor heating is actually very efficient because it heats objects and people directly instead of the air. Actual consumption depends heavily on the insulation value of your home and how you use the system. By using smart thermostats and zone heating, you only heat the rooms you are in, which keeps your energy bill significantly lower than with traditional systems that continuously heat the entire house.

Can infrared underfloor heating be installed under an existing floor?

Yes, this system is ideally suited for renovation projects, provided you temporarily remove the current floor covering. Because the foil is wafer-thin, you can easily place it on an insulation layer and lay the new floor directly over it. The minimal build-up height ensures that in most cases you do not need to adjust doors or thresholds, which saves a lot of time and money.

Do I need an extra circuit for electric underfloor heating?

Whether you need an extra circuit depends on the total wattage of your system. If the total power of the infrared underfloor heating exceeds 2,000 to 2,500 watts, a separate circuit in the fuse box is necessary to prevent overloading. Our advisors will calculate this accurately for you based on the surface area and the chosen type of foil or mat.

How thick is infrared underfloor heating foil?

Termofol's heating foil is extremely thin, with a thickness of only 0.3 to 0.5 millimeters. As a result, the system is virtually invisible after installation and has almost no impact on the floor height. Even including the necessary insulation boards, the total build-up remains limited to a few millimeters, which is unique compared to water-based systems that are often centimeters thick.

Can I install infrared underfloor heating myself?

Yes, with our complete kits, you can easily install the foils and insulation yourself. It is a dry system, which means that no glue or leveling compound is required for laminate or parquet. However, we do recommend having the final electrical connection to the thermostat and the meter box carried out by a certified electrician for your own safety and warranty.

Is infrared underfloor heating suitable as primary heating?

Infrared underfloor heating is ideally suited as primary heating in well-insulated homes. It is important to install sufficient capacity and cover approximately 60 to 80 percent of the available floor area. In modern new-builds or renovated homes, this system provides enough radiant heat to keep the room comfortably warm all year round without the need for additional radiators.

What is the lifespan of an infrared floor system?

A high-quality infrared floor system effortlessly lasts thirty years or longer. There are no moving parts in the foil that can wear out, and there is no risk of leaks as with water-based systems. This makes it a very sustainable investment that remains virtually maintenance-free throughout the entire lifespan of your floor.

Do I need to cover the entire floor with heating foil?

No, it is not necessary, and even advised against, to cover the entire floor. Do not place the foil under heavy, fixed furniture without legs, such as kitchen cabinets or large wardrobes, to prevent heat buildup. For effective primary heating, covering between 60 and 80 percent of the free floor surface is usually more than sufficient for even heat distribution.

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