5 Surprising Truths About Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators

It’s a question that many homeowners in Malta ask when planning a renovation or building a new home: is underfloor heating cheaper than radiators?

On the surface, radiators seem like the obvious choice—they’re familiar, cost less to install, and easy to spot. But dig a little deeper, and the story changes. When you factor in long-term costs, energy efficiency, and comfort, underfloor heating often comes out on top.

In this post, we’ll break down the real numbers, energy comparisons, and hidden costs of both systems to help you decide what works best for your space—and your wallet.

Let’s uncover the truth.

1. Initial Installation Costs: Radiators Win—But Only at First Glance| Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators

There’s no denying it: when it comes to upfront costs, radiators are cheaper. They’re faster to install, and most Maltese homes are already set up for them.

Radiator Installation Costs (Malta):

• Basic radiator units: €100–€300 each

• Labor per unit: €80–€150

• Total for a 3-bedroom home: €800–€1,500

Now compare that to underfloor heating:

Underfloor Heating Installation Costs:

• Electric mat systems: €40–€70/m²

• Wet systems: €60–€100/m²

• Installation (labor and materials): €2,000–€3,500 for an average home

So yes, underfloor heating has a higher initial price tag—but that’s only part of the story. Over the long term, things start to look very different.

2. Energy Efficiency: Why Underfloor Heating Pays You Back| Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators

Now to the heart of the matter: is underfloor heating cheaper than radiators when it comes to running costs? The answer is usually yes—especially in Malta’s mild winters.

Here’s why underfloor heating is more efficient:

• Lower operating temperature: Radiators need 65–75°C water to heat a room. Underfloor heating needs just 27–29°C.

• Even heat distribution: Radiators create hotspots near the unit, but underfloor systems heat evenly from the ground up.

• Less heat loss: Because underfloor systems use radiant heat (not convection), less energy is lost through air movement or draughts.

Real-world savings:

In Malta, an average-sized home using electric underfloor heating with proper insulation can save up to €150–€250 per year on energy compared to radiator systems.

That means underfloor heating can pay for itself in just 8–12 years—and even faster if you have solar panels.

Want a heating system that’s efficient, comfortable, and eco-friendly? Check out our underfloor heating options in Malta—we tailor every installation for maximum savings.

3. Maintenance Costs: Radiators Need More Attention| Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators

Many homeowners forget to factor in maintenance when comparing costs. But it’s an important piece of the puzzle when asking, is underfloor heating cheaper than radiators?

Radiator Maintenance:

• Air bleeding, flushing, valve repairs: yearly

• Risk of rust, leaks, and broken thermostatic valves

• Professional servicing: €80–€150/year

Underfloor Heating Maintenance:

• Virtually maintenance-free if installed properly

• No exposed parts, leaks are rare

• Occasional thermostat checks: €50–€80 every 3–5 years

Because underfloor heating is built into the floor and has fewer mechanical parts, it simply doesn’t need the same upkeep.

4. Comfort and Air Quality: Priceless Benefits| Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators

While cost is crucial, comfort also plays a big role in your decision. Here’s how the two systems compare:

Radiators:

• Heat the air, which rises to the ceiling first

• Often create uneven temperatures

• Can dry out air and circulate dust

Underfloor Heating:

• Gentle radiant heat from the floor up

• Consistent warmth in every corner

• No noisy fans or air movement

• Keeps humidity balanced and indoor air cleaner

Especially for people with allergies or asthma, underfloor heating offers a noticeable improvement in indoor air quality—something radiators simply can’t match.

That’s another hidden reason why underfloor heating is cheaper than radiators—because comfort and health can save you money in the long run (fewer doctor visits, lower medication use, better sleep).

5. Property Value and Modern Appeal| Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators

If you’re thinking about resale value, underfloor heating is an upgrade that adds instant appeal—especially in high-end or renovated homes.

Why it matters:

• Sleek and invisible—no bulky wall units

• More flexibility with interior design

• A selling point for eco-conscious buyers

• Smart home integration with app-controlled thermostats

In fact, many real estate agents in Malta report that homes with underfloor heating attract more interest and sell faster. That added value can easily outweigh the initial cost difference compared to radiators.

Final Thoughts on Costs: What Really Makes It Cheaper?| Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators

Let’s summarize:

So, is underfloor heating cheaper than radiators?

➡️ Yes, over time.
Even though the upfront cost is higher, underfloor heating wins when you consider energy savings, comfort, maintenance, and resale value.

If you’re building or renovating in Malta, it’s the perfect time to make the switch. We offer tailored solutions to match your budget and home layout.

👉 Contact us now for a free consultation and quote.

Ready to see your floor work smarter, not harder?
👉 Check out our full underfloor heating services in Malta—high-quality materials, expert installation, and guaranteed comfort.

And if you’d like to geek out on the science behind radiant floors, here’s an in-depth Wikipedia article on underfloor heating.

Real Examples: Cost Comparisons in Maltese Homes| Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators

Let’s get practical. To truly understand is underfloor heating cheaper than radiators, we need to look at real use cases. Here are two scenarios from recent clients in Malta who weighed the same choice:

🏠 Case Study 1: Apartment in Sliema – 100m²

Option 1: Radiators

• 6 radiators (3 bedrooms, living room, kitchen, bathroom)

• Installation: €1,350

• Annual heating cost (based on electric boiler): €650

• Maintenance & servicing: €120/year

• Total after 10 years: €8,850

Option 2: Electric Underfloor Heating

• Electric mats for all rooms

• Installation: €3,200

• Annual electricity cost: €400

• Maintenance: €0–€50 every few years

• Total after 10 years: €7,200

✅ Verdict: Although the underfloor system cost more upfront, it saved them over €1,600 in 10 years, plus the added design flexibility.

🏡 Case Study 2: Villa in Naxxar – 200m²

Option 1: Radiators with gas boiler

• Installation: €3,800

• Annual gas bills: €950

• Maintenance: €150/year

• Total after 10 years: €14,800

Option 2: Wet Underfloor Heating with solar water assist

• Installation: €6,500

• Annual energy costs: €250–€300

• Minimal maintenance: €100 every 3 years

• Total after 10 years: €9,000

✅ Verdict: Underfloor heating saved this household over €5,500 in a decade—plus a much more comfortable indoor climate year-round.

Electric vs. Wet Underfloor Systems: Which is Cheaper?| Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators

When asking is underfloor heating cheaper than radiators, you should also ask: which underfloor heating system is best for me?

🔌 Electric Underfloor Heating

• Ideal for smaller areas (bathrooms, apartments)

• Lower installation cost: €40–€70/m²

• Slightly higher running cost

• Fast installation (1–2 days)

💧 Wet (Hydronic) Underfloor Heating

• Ideal for large homes or new builds

• Higher installation cost: €60–€100/m²

• Much lower energy bills

• Can be connected to heat pumps, gas boilers, or solar

✅ Pro Tip: Electric systems are best for retrofits and limited spaces, while wet systems are better for whole-house solutions and long-term savings.

If you’re not sure which is right for your home, we’ll help you figure it out. Just contact us for a free site assessment and tailored quote.

4 Ways to Make Underfloor Heating Even Cheaper| Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators

If you’re leaning toward underfloor heating but worried about costs, here are four smart tips to keep expenses down:

1. Install During Renovation

Adding underfloor heating while replacing floors can save on labor and waste. Many clients combine it with tile or vinyl upgrades.

2. Use Smart Thermostats

Thermostats with learning algorithms adjust heating to your habits—saving up to 20% on energy bills. Some even let you control room-by-room temperatures via smartphone.

3. Improve Floor Insulation

Good insulation beneath your heating system reduces energy waste and boosts comfort. This can cut operating costs by 25–30%.

4. Pair with Renewable Energy

Installing solar panels or a heat pump with your wet system slashes operating costs dramatically. Malta’s climate is perfect for solar.

We offer full packages that combine heating, insulation, and smart tech. Learn more at our underfloor heating service page.

The Long-Term Financial View| Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators

When weighing up is underfloor heating cheaper than radiators, it’s essential to look beyond the immediate cost. The true value lies in the long-term return on investment. While radiators might save you a few thousand euros upfront, underfloor heating rewards you with decades of lower energy consumption, less maintenance, and more efficient performance—especially if your system is properly installed and controlled.

Space Efficiency: An Unspoken Cost-Saver| Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators

Radiators take up wall space, often dictating where you can place furniture or decorations. Underfloor heating is invisible and frees up your entire layout. For homeowners in Malta where floorplans can be tight, this space efficiency adds indirect savings—less need for custom furniture or awkward layouts. Another way underfloor heating is cheaper than radiators when you consider the full use of your square footage.

Consistency is Key: Avoiding Temperature Fluctuations| Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators

Radiators create pockets of heat, usually near the source, leaving other parts of the room cooler. This causes thermostats to overcompensate, leading to higher energy usage. In contrast, underfloor heating delivers consistent heat across the entire room, reducing thermostat cycling and energy waste. That kind of efficiency directly answers the question: is underfloor heating cheaper than radiators?

Government Incentives and Rebates in Malta| Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators

With the EU pushing for greener energy solutions, Malta offers incentives and VAT reductions on energy-efficient upgrades. In some cases, homes that upgrade to underfloor heating systems—especially when paired with renewables—qualify for tax deductions or energy-efficiency grants. These can knock hundreds off your total cost, closing the price gap between radiators and radiant systems.

No Leaks, No Problems| Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators

Leaking radiators and pipes are a common headache for homeowners. Whether it’s a small drip or a full-blown leak, the damage to walls and floors can be costly. Underfloor heating systems, when installed correctly, are sealed, pressure-tested, and extremely reliable. Fewer leaks mean fewer emergency repairs—yet another way underfloor heating is cheaper than radiators over time.

Child- and Pet-Friendly Heating| Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators

Radiators can get dangerously hot, posing a burn risk to small children or curious pets. They’re also prone to sharp corners and rust. With underfloor systems, all the heat is safely tucked away beneath the floor—no hot surfaces, no exposed metal. Families find underfloor heating to be a safer, more comfortable, and more cost-effective solution for the long term.

Integration with Renewable Technologies| Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators

If you’re planning to install solar panels, heat pumps, or a hybrid system, underfloor heating integrates more efficiently than radiators. Since it operates at low water temperatures, it pairs perfectly with green energy. That means lower heating bills and less reliance on fossil fuels. This long-term compatibility further proves that underfloor heating is cheaper than radiators for future-ready homes.

The Minimalist Aesthetic Advantage| Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators

There’s no denying the sleek, seamless look that comes with a home free from wall-mounted radiators. It’s not just about style—it’s also about value. Homes with underfloor heating in Malta often attract more attention from modern buyers and renters, making your property more marketable and easier to furnish. It’s an often-overlooked financial edge.

Silent Operation, Zero Disruption| Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators

Radiators are notorious for making knocking or hissing noises, especially in older systems or during thermal expansion. Underfloor heating operates silently, with no creaks, groans, or bubbling sounds to interrupt your peace. And while this may not seem like a “cost,” the quality of life improvement—and less need for noisy troubleshooting—makes underfloor systems a more sensible long-term investment.

Custom Zones: Only Heat What You Need| Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators

Modern underfloor heating systems can be split into zones, meaning you only heat the rooms you use. Radiators can do this too, but they often lack the precision and smart controls that underfloor heating systems offer. By zoning your home, you save even more on electricity or gas bills, proving once again that underfloor heating is cheaper than radiators when you use it wisely.

Common Myths Debunked| Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators

There’s a lot of misinformation out there about underfloor heating. Let’s separate fact from fiction.

❌ Myth 1: Radiators Heat Faster

Reality: Underfloor systems take a little longer to warm up but retain heat far longer and distribute it more evenly.

❌ Myth 2: Underfloor Heating Is Too Expensive

Reality: While the installation cost is higher, long-term operating costs are lower. It’s an investment, not an expense.

❌ Myth 3: It Only Works with Tiles

Reality: Modern systems work with tiles, vinyl, engineered wood, and even carpet (with proper backing). We help you choose the right system for your flooring.

❌ Myth 4: It’s Complicated to Install

Reality: With a skilled team, most homes are ready in 2–5 days, depending on the size and system.

Final Checklist: Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators?| Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators

If you’re still deciding, ask yourself these key questions:

✅ Do I want lower energy bills over time?
✅ Am I renovating or building new?
✅ Do I want hidden, silent, even heating?
✅ Do I plan to live in my home for the next 5–10 years?
✅ Do I want to increase property value?

If the answer is yes to most of these, then underfloor heating is not just cheaper—it’s smarter.

Still Wondering “Is Underfloor Heating Cheaper Than Radiators?”

Here’s your answer:

👉 Yes—especially in Malta.
Despite a higher installation cost, underfloor heating offers lower energy bills, fewer repairs, improved comfort, and increased home value.

We understand every home is different. That’s why we customize our solutions to fit your layout, lifestyle, and long-term goals.

📞 Ready to start saving?

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out what system fits your home and budget.

🔧 Want a deeper look at our systems?

Check out our full underfloor heating services in Malta. We work with electric and wet systems, smart thermostats, and energy-efficient materials to help you build better comfort—for less.

📚 Want to learn more about how it works?

Dive into the technical side with this helpful underfloor heating guide on Wikipedia.